We all speak of “the beat” in music, but music has more than one kind of beat. “Macro Beats” are the big beats, the most prominent beats with the greatest weight. “Micro Beats” are the smaller beats, still somewhat prominent, but with less weight. Micro beats are the divisions of Macro beats. The perception of both Macro and Micro beats is essential to rhythm learning at all levels. It is not counting or mathematical relationships that give rise to rhythm, but the relationship of Macro and Micro beats in sound, and the relationship of any rhythm pattern to Macro and Micro beats. The delivery of Macro and Micro beats with proportionate weight makes the difference between a moving performance and a boring performance at all levels of development, including professional.
CCS Macro/Micro Beat Activities provide tangible experience with the aural laws of rhythm. They reinforce the perception of Macro and Micro beats, stimulate awareness of Macro and Micro beats in the context of a rhythm “storyline,” and encourage delivery of Macro and Micro beats. Each CCS Macro/Micro Beat Activity presents Macro and Micro beats within one meter. Successive Macro/Micro Beat Activities alternate meters. The contrast between meters strengthens the perception of Macro and Micro beats and their role in defining meter. Playing with Macro and Micro beats is a big step in music learning, and is essential to musical growth throughout life. Macro/Micro Beat Activities offer many suggestions for “Playing Music.” The more you and your child play with Macro and Micro beats, the more your child will develop rhythm skills.
