Triplet 8th Notes

With normal 8th notes, we divide two hits within one quarter note, giving it a hit on the downbeat (1, 2, 3 or 4) and a hit in between the downbeats. The difference in sound between the normal 8th notes and triplet 8th notes is that with triplet 8th notes, we divide three hits within one quarter note. This gives the rhythm a very driving feel at times. While normal 8th notes are marked with two brackets leading to the notes, triplet 8th notes are marked with three brackets leading to their notes.

1 + a 2 + a 3 + a 4 + a

To count triplet 8th notes, we use numbers for our downbeats (1, 2, 3 and 4) and the two hits between our downbeats are indicated with a + sign ("and"), and an "a" syllable. This gives us 1 + a, 2 + a, 3 + a, 4 + a.

v ^ v v ^ v v ^ v v ^ v

When strumming triplet 8th notes, there are three common strum patterns. The first strum pattern is to always strum the downbeats as a down strum. The next strum will be an up strum and the last one in the group of three will be down. This is probably the most common strum pattern when playing triplet 8ths consistently within a steadier mid tempo feel. To practice this strum pattern, pick a chord and repeat the strum pattern as much as you'd like.

v ^ v ^ v ^ v ^ v ^ v ^

This next strum pattern is often used in more of a driving context, usually used during build ups in dynamics within a song. This strum pattern provides a consisted alternate strumming/picking pattern. It starts with the first triplet having a down-up-down pattern, then the next triplet continuing with the alternate strumming concept and starting with an up strum, followed by a down, then up strum. If continuing with this alternate strumming/picking pattern, the next triplet will start from the beginning of the strum pattern with a down strum.

v v v v v v v v v v v v

This strum pattern again is used in a driving context but less for build ups and more for more attack within a steady tempo (often used in hard rock and blues). This strum pattern uses a consistent down strum motion. Because of this, it's important to know where the downbeat is. One way to keep track of the downbeat is of course by counting out loud or in your head. Another way to become more self aware of the downbeats is to accent (hit harder) the downbeats. Emphasizing the downbeats can also give the rhythm a nice push-and-pull feel to it.

Try these exercises using each of the different types of strum patterns (down-up-down, alternate, and constant down):

1 + a 2 + a 3 + a 4 + a

1.

1 + a 2 + a 3 + a 4

2.

1 + a 2 + a 3 4

3.

1 + a 2 3 4

4.

1 2 + a 3 + a 4 + a

5.

1 2 3 + a 4 + a