PHED 13n

Lesson 2.2:
Rhythm in Dance

What is Rhythm?

Rhythm has been regarded as the “most primitive, yet complex structure of the human mind”
(Shallow, 2002, p. 43). Rhythms could be described as repeated patterns of sounds or beats used in
music, poetry, or dance; or even as regular movements or patterns of change.

The most important element of dance is music, and it is rare for dance of any kind—social,
theatrical, or religious—to develop without musical accompaniment. The close relation between dance
and music is based on the fact that both are organized around rhythmic pattern; thus, the rhythm of the
accompanying music may be used to determine the rhythm of the dance, to give it emphasis, or to help
the dancers maintain the same beat.

The common time signature in Dance are: 2/4, 3/4, and 4/4.

A. 2/4 Time Signature

- Has two beats per measure
- Example: Babablack Sheep, Lupang Hinirang
B. ¾ Time Signature
- Also known as waltz time/ waltz rhythm.
- has three beats per measure
- Example: Bahay Kubo, waltz
C. 4/4 Time Signature
- also known as the common time or “C” because it’s the most used time signature.
- Has four beats per measure.
- Example: Tango