More on Polyrhythms
Composer and saxophonist Miguel Zenón explains polyrhythms, and why they’re reflective of his work. Some nice visuals help you hear polyrhythms in action, as well.
Name Story
Pass the salt and pepper.
Three Played With Four
Three Over Four refers to a polyrhythm: multiple rhythms played in the same time and space. Three beats over four beats during the same time period is a simple polyrhythm. And a nice brand.
Say It With Us
Musicians sometimes use mnemonics to learn how to play polyrhythms. “Pass the salt and pepper” is a mnemonic for Three Over Four. Try it: tap your right hand and play/say the top row, and tap your left hand and play/say the bottom row.
What It All Means
We like polyrhythms (and tessellations) because they represent richness in diverse ideas and the inclusive cultures that welcome them. And we approach our work with polymathic and strategic thinking—different sources of data coming together for direction and meaning. These are the kinds of values that drive us as a firm. Our strength is in our … well, in our poly.
Oh, and polyrhythms happen to bind us. If we can learn to listen for the common beat that syncs each of our different rhythms, then that’s a step toward honoring the humanity in everyone.
Play Video
Hear Here
Every year we raise funds for a music education nonprofit. One year we partnered with The Playground Ensemble, who gave us interpretations of the three over four polyrhythm. Have a listen!
Does this vibe?
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