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Polyrhythm and Polymeter
A polyrhythm is when two or more performers are playing the same time signature, but are playing different groupings/rhythms within that time signature. For example if playing all eighth notes in 4/4 time, one guitarist could be playing 2+2+2+2 while the other could be playing 3+3+2.
This example is in 3/4 and has the rhythm parts performing 2+2+2 while the guitars are playing 3+3. (Note that the 3/4 meter is simple notated to show the accented beats of all instruments other than guitar and not notated to show pitch.)
 Listen to the 6/8 3/4 polyrhythm example
A polymeter is when two or more performers are playing different time signatures. For example, one guitarist could be playing in 4/4 while the drummer could be playing in 9/8. This is a great way to build massive amounts of tension in your song writing.
This example has the guitars, bass and lower body of the drummer performing in a 3/8 meter while the synth and upper body of the drummer is performing in a 4/4 meter. (Note that the 4/4 meter is simple notated to show the accented beats of all instruments other than guitar and not notated to show pitch.)
Listen to the 3/8 4/4 polymeter example
 Page 2 - Compound Meter - Odd Meter
Page 4 - How to Apply Meter 
Understanding Meter and its Application
Jump Zone
Zack Uidl
zack@zackuidl.com
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About Zack Uidl
Zack Uidl is a professional guitarist, studio/session musician, instructor, and composer in the Chicago-land area. He is one of the founding members, songwriters, and guitarists for the progressive metal band Thoughts Betrayed. He currently is an instructor both privately and at JC’s Guitars in Algonquin, Illinois. Zack has studied with the best guitarists in the industry including Tom Hess, Zvonimir Tot, Mike Walsh, Jody Fisher to name a few. He is a highly regarded clinician, author, and performer.
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 Thoughts Betrayed : Recollection - Progressive metal band influenced by artists such as Nevermore, Dream Theater, Symphony X, and Outworld. Melodic vocals, technical lead guitar work, complex rhythms.
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 Progressive 7-String Guitar Instructional DVD - For guitarists that are both new to the seven-string guitar, and who are familiar with it, but are looking for new concepts and ideas to enhance their seven-string guitar playing.
 The Ultimate Sweep Picker's Guide E-book - For guitarists who want an in-depth explanation of sweep picking, a technique with which many guitarists struggle.
 Rock Tracks II - Lead Guitar Improvising CD
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