In this tutorial, I will show you a rhythm that you have probably never hear of, even though I can guarantee you have HEARD it before. Get ready as I answer the question "What is the Tresillo rhythm?"
So...What IS the Tresillo rhythm?
Quite simply, the Tresillo (pronounced tray-SEE-yo) is the pattern that we hear as 1 2 3 - 1 2 3 - 1 2 or 3+3+2. Notice that the first part of this rhythm is the Charleston rhythm, which we learned earlier.
The Tresillo rhythm is a more complex version of the Habanera. If you want to dive deeper into some African American music history, check out this link.
We can count the Tresillo Rhythm in one of two ways. Like this:
Or, like this:
Learning the Tresillo Rhythm
In order to master this rhythm, here is a great way to practice it:
Step #1: Clap the Tresillo and count it 1+2+3+4+
Step #2: Clap the Tresillo and count it 1 2 3 - 1 2 3 - 1 2
Step #3: Play it on the piano
Step #4: Play and sing it on a song
Origin of the Tresillo rhythm
Songs that us the Tresillo rhythm
The Tresillo rhythm shows up in a lot of different styles of music from all over the world. You can hear it in Africa, all over Latin America, New Orleans and in American rock music and Music Theater. Its origin is sub-Saharan Africa and was brought over to South American during the Slave trade.
The Tresillo is also known as:
The Habanera
Tango
New Orleans Groove
half of the Clave
Pop Clave
Bass tumbao
Spanish Tinge
Malfouf (Egypt)
Gen-Z Clave
Stand By Me is a great example of the Tresillo rhythm. The bass line can be counted in this 3+3+2 pattern throughout. Bet you never realized that rhythm had a name, did you?
Under the Boardwalk by the Drifters also uses this groove. I told you it was everywhere!
Blue Bayou written by Roy Orbison and famously sung by Linda Ronstadt is also another great example of the Tresillo rhythm.
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Blue Bayou written by Roy Orbison and famously sung by Linda Ronstadt is also another great example of the Tresillo rhythm.
The Tresillo Rhythm as an alternative to "Strumming"
I like to use the Tresillo rhythm as a strumming alternative. The U2 song With or Without You is a prime example. I use their pulsing bass line in my left hand and use the Tresillo rhythm in my right. It's a great way to fill up the space in a rhythmic way!
Here are just a few more pop songs that use the Tresillo rhythm. How many of them do you know?
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