In Context

Tying that results in a REPETITIVE PATTERN should be broken up to avoid any “drumbeat effect” (a predictable rhythmic pattern). Break up the pattern by removing the tie from it occasionally.

For example, in the bass part of measure 1, it is suggested that you tie through the measure (see yellow highlight). Suppose, however, that you had decided to tie beats 1 and 2, and then instead of tying through to beat 3, you repeat it. Based on the consideration of measure 1 alone, this may have been a good idea. But in the context of the rest of the phrase, it would create a repetitive “drumbeat effect.” That is, every measure of the phrase would present the same "half-note quarter" rhythmic pattern in the bass part.

Tying all three bass notes in measure 1 contributes towards a sense of variety, and towards an increase in the rhythmic activity as the phrase progresses.

Index