Rhythm is Motion. Notes are Emotion.
Here’s a simple way to feel this yourself:
- Set your BPM to 120.
- Open a simple sound - like a basic piano, bass or synth.
- Write 8 “C” notes in your piano roll, all in 8th notes.
Click play.
You should already feel momentum. Like a drive forward.
That’s MOTION.
But it’s just all on one “sound.” The C.
Now leave the first note on C, then tweak a few of the other notes one at a time.
Don’t even worry about it sounding “good.”
Just notice what happens - the MOTION is the same…
But it’s saying something different.
That’s EMOTION.
Rhythm is motion. Notes are emotion.
Once you’re done playing, write a different rhythm and do this again.
Pro tip: You can also keep the same rhythm, but change the length of each note and feel the difference. This can be huge.
This is an effective way to write ideas that have momentum built in, while getting more in touch with the feeling of each note and rhythm you choose.
The more you get in touch with the emotions of each choice, the more you can create with intention.
Your Homework: Rhythm & Note Exploration.
Scroll back up and do exactly what I laid out.
Don’t think “right and wrong” - listen without judgement, and connect with the emotions.
Now get in that DAW my friend.
Avery
