Identifying 16th Note Rhythms
In a bar of sixteenth notes in * time, there are 16 different positions for notes within the bar (four positions within each of the four beats). The first beat begins with position 1; the second note of the first group of four is called the "e of one"; the third note of the first group is called the "and of one", and the fourth note of the first group is called the "a of one". The system then continues through the other three beats of the bar, with 2, e of 2, and of 2, a of 2, etc.
Here are four more important 16th note rhythms. Practice each one on a single note as shown below, and then use them to play arpeggios and scales. When you are confident with each rhythm, try improvising with it. The first example contains a dotted eighth note. A dot increases the value of a note by half, so the dotted eighth note is worth three quarters of a beat.
This one contains two sixteenth notes and an eighth note. You may find these rhythms difficult at first but they are all used by lead guitarists, so stick with it. Use a metronome as you practice and count out loud as you play. If you are tapping your foot, make sure it taps only on each beat and not in between.
The next two rhythms involve the use of sixteenth note rests. Once again take them slowly at first, count out loud and use a metronome.
Once you have learnt these rhythms on a single note, try using them with the minor pentatonic scale as shown here.The more familiar you are with these rhythms, the easier you will find it to play melodies containing 16th notes as well as improvising with them.
Here are some licks which make use of the rhythms you have just learnt. Take them slowly at first, and count out loud if you have a problem keeping time. Remember to tap your foot only on the beat and not in between.
Staccato
A dot above or below a note indicates that the note is to be played staccato, which means short and separate from other notes.
To play a note staccato, lift the left hand finger off the fret as soon as the note sounds. If you are playing an open string, stop the sound with the right hand as soon as the note is played. Listen to the following example on the CD to hear the effect of staccato in bar 2.
Here is a lick demonstrating the use of staccato notes.
