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Two or more different rhythmic patterns performed simultaneously (e.g., three against two, four against three).
Polyrhythm adds rhythmic complexity and tension. 3 against 2 is the most common: one hand plays triplets while the other plays duplets. Brahms and Chopin use polyrhythm extensively. Start with simple ratios (3:2) before attempting more complex ones (5:4, 7:4).
Chopin's Fantaisie-Impromptu — the right hand plays four notes per beat against the left hand's three, creating the piece's characteristic restless energy.
Polyrhythm is one of 228 terms in the Gradus musical dictionary, where every definition is written around how composers actually use the word.
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