Working With Rhythms

Rhythm Patterns

PET uses a system of common rhythm patterns to produce an overall rhythm. Some of these patterns last for one beat and others last for two, three or even four. Rhythm patterns to be included in the test are represented as a white note on a black background. To select or deselect a rhythm pattern, point the mouse at it and click the left mouse button.

Some rhythm patterns may be unavailable dependent on the current time signature. Selecting an inappropriate rhythm pattern eg. Pattern 4 (semibreve) in 2/4 or 3/4 will result in an error message. PET requires that rhythm pattern 1 (crotchet) is always selected.

Number of Bars

Determines the number of bars (excluding a one bar count-in) in the current rhythm. If when you select reveal the rhythm is too long to fit on the screen use the scroll bar to view the rest of it.

Time Signature

Determines the time signature of the current rhythm.

Metronome

Determines whether or not a click is played during the performance of the rhythm. Even if this option is turned off the rhythm will always be preceded with a one bar count in. It is possible to change the sound used for the metronome by using the Midi Options dialog box.

Ties

These two options determine whether ties may occur either across bars or within bars.

PET employs heuristic logic to ensure that the conventions of standard notation are respected – particularly those relating to the centre of the bar in 4/4.

Test Mode

The following dialog box is used to enter a rhythm for PET to evaluate.

The numbers correspond to those in the top left hand corner of each rhythm in the rhythm patterns selection area. Some numbers may be ‘greyed out’ and therefore unable to be selected – only rhythm patterns that were included in the test are available.

Ties and bar-lines are entered by clicking the appropriate buttons.

The erase button removes the last entry, which could be either a rhythm pattern, tie or bar line.

When you have finished entering your rhythm, click the submit button.