Level 4 · Musician · 20 min
Rubato that returns to the pulse
By the end you can broaden a phrase ending and return to the agreed tempo.
Before this lesson
Lesson steps
1 The reference tempo
Play the phrase with three even subdivisions per bar.
4 min · Quarter note = 44, 1 note per click
Check for · The beginning of each bar comes after three eighth notes.
More detail
This first pass provides a reference for the flexible version.
2 Where to use rubato
Sing the end of the first section, broadening the final attack.
4 min
Check for · You can identify one note whose duration you change.
More detail
Choose the C before the rest. The remainder of the phrase gives its rhythmic context.
3 A measured change
Lengthen the C just before the rest in bar 8 slightly.
4 min
Revisit the tablature · Step 2
Check for · The neighbouring note keeps its place in the phrase and you can still sing the passage.
More detail
Broadening comes from the interval between attacks. Let the note ring.
4 Resuming motion
Return to the starting tempo as soon as the motif begins again.
4 min · Quarter note = 44, 1 note per click
Revisit the tablature · Step 1
Check for · The first three eighth notes of the repeat recover their initial spacing.
More detail
Switch the click on just before restarting to check your reference.
5 Two listenings
Record a strict version and then a flexible version of the same ending.
4 min
Revisit the tablature · Step 2
Check for · You can identify the take with rubato by ear.
More detail
Listen to the preceding bars too, checking that the slowing stays local.
You can move on when…
You pass when two flexible versions return to the same tempo after the breath.
If a movement feels difficult
The whole phrase slows down.
Replay the opening bars with the click before freeing the ending.
The repeat starts at a different tempo.
Count three eighth notes at the starting tempo before resuming.