I need a tip on playing triplets.?

Question

I play piano and I'm having problems getting the beat right when my right hand plays triplets and my left hand plays eighth notes. Maybe I'm just rhythmically challenge, lol, but any advice would be appreciated! Thanks!

Answer 1

you are not alone! playing these hemiola cross rhythms can be absolute h**l!

try learning the two rhythms as one combined rhythm,...

its about the same as being able to clap or conduct a 2 beat pattern on one hand simultaneously with a 3 beat pattern on the other. if you can do that-then playing the cross rhythms will come easy!!!

here's a visual to help you see how it might line up;

right hand; 1----2----3

left hand;---1------2

mentally i count 1 2 & 3 (the "&" being the second beat on the left hand)