Balance in Three ⚖️
Some of my favorite centering songs have 3 beats. What I mean is that their underlying pulse — their heartbeat — is counted 1–2–3. This odd but centering rhythm has a swinging feeling and is used in ballads, meditations and waltzes. “Happy Birthday” is also in 3! What happens when you listen for the 1–2–3 beat in these tunes?
This gospel classic and this grown-up ballad sung by the late and beloved Aretha Franklin
Kermit’s colorful question from the Muppet Movie
My favorite waltz and love song from Viennese operetta
While you listen, if you like, find the pulse of each song. Once you can hear and tap along with the regular strong beats, count “1–2–3” over and over, along with the music.
This is a great brain break from homework or schoolwork and will leave you more focused than when you started!
