Ravel's 'Asie' Polyrhythm Step-by-step Guide

Ravel's 'Asie' Polyrhythm: What is the number of subdivisions within each main pulse?

In this introductory video, we delve into the mathematical aspects of Ravel's 'Asie' from the Sheherazade song cycle to answer a fundamental question:

How many equal subdivisions are within each beat of the main pulse?

We explore the concepts of numerators and denominators, experimenting with different subdivisions to find the most suitable rhythm.

This sets the stage for understanding and dissecting the intricate rhythmic patterns in the piece.

Building on the foundational concepts introduced in the previous video, the focus of this video is to break down the polyrhythms in 'Asie' into manageable steps.

Throughout the video, we start by identifying the main pulse and its subdivisions, then dissect the rhythmic patterns of the lyrics and coordinate them with the underlying pulse.

By the end of this video, viewers will have a clearer understanding of how to approach and interpret the polyrhythmic elements in 'Asie,' paving the way for a more confident and informed performance or analysis of this captivating musical piece.

Building upon the previous lessons, this video focuses on practicing polyrhythm coordination. We explore how to synchronize and coordinate different rhythmic layers within Figure 13.

Polyrhyhtm Coordination

1. Vocalizing the main pulse and subdivisions

2. Playing the melody with your hand

This video will delve into the practical aspects of using a guide recording. I'll walk you through two essential steps to improve your rhythmic coordination:

1. Establishing a steady main pulse: We'll focus on developing a consistent main pulse to anchor our rhythmic framework.
2. Coordinating the lyrics in rhythm: This step emphasizes aligning your lyrics with the recording's main pulse and subdivisions. Your ear should be tuned to detect the rhythmic nuances, enhancing your ability to synchronize with the 'melody clapping.'

Tips for Alignment and Focus
Ear ↔ Melody's Rhythmic Clapping
Mouth ↔ Subdivision of Denominator

In this video, we continue our exploration of rhythmic coordination using the guide recording. Follow along as we go through the following two steps to enhance your rhythmic skills:

1. Play the guide recording and read the lyrics at a slower tempo (x0.5): This exercise helps you focus on aligning the lyrics with the rhythmic structure at a reduced speed, allowing for better comprehension and coordination.

2. Play the guide recording and read the lyrics at normal tempo: Once you're comfortable with the slower tempo, we'll progress to the regular speed, refining your ability to synchronize the lyrics seamlessly with the recording's main pulse and subdivisions.

In this video, we explore how to transition smoothly between different subdivisions. Metric modulation involves changing the underlying pulse or beat within a piece, particularly focusing on the subdivision of the denominator. This creates rhythmic interest and complexity, as we transition between different subdivisions such as shifting from a 3-count beat to a 4-count beat and back.

In this video, we're diving into how to coordinate lyrics with metric modulation. I'll show you a demo, perhaps let's practice together. If you feel the tempo is too fast, no worries! Simply slow down the guide recording to get comfortable with the lyrics first. Then, gradually increase the tempo to match the actual performance tempo.

In this section, we'll explore strategies for internalizing polyrhythms and integrating them seamlessly into our performances. From transitioning between different rhythmic layers to maintaining consistency and clarity in our singing, we'll cover it all.

"The Polyrhythm Mastery Roadmap" unfolds over five steps, guiding you step by step to uncover hidden rhythms, refine your counting techniques, and integrate disparate elements into harmonious compositions by drawing on all the learning from the previous sections. Download the course material now and get on board to practice with the six examples I'm providing.

In the new section 'Harmonic Awareness,' I share how I hear and sing accidentals using a combination of techniques, including tetrachord and movable-do solfeggio, to identify tonicization.

These methods help me recognize intervals more accurately, especially when temporarily shifting the tonal center. With this skillset, we can make mental adjustments and quickly adapt to a new tonic, fostering strong relative pitch and a good understanding of harmonic context.

Congratulations on reaching the end of our course! Reflect on your journey with the PRIMA Framework for Polyrhythm Mastery: Polyrhythm Coordination, Reference Guide Recordings, Identifying the Main Pulse, Mastery through Layer Isolation, and Harmonic Awareness. Embrace your newfound rhythmic proficiency. Until then, keep practicing!

This video features a rehearsal of Ravel's Asie, prepared for the Flameborne Recital at eslite Spectrum on 26 December 2025.

At this stage, beating and polyrhythms are no longer something we consciously calculate. They have become part of our musical instincts.

The lyrics, emotions, atmosphere, and interactions with fellow ensemble musicians naturally shape the performance. Musical expression may move beyond a strictly theoretical interpretation, allowing spontaneity and artistic freedom to emerge.

This is where technique becomes second nature, and music comes alive.

Originally presented as a pre-concert session during Crimson Howl (2025), What Are They Really Singing? — A Prelude to French Lyrics & Culture was a special collaboration with The French Academy.

Our guest speakers, Elsa and Prof. Olivier, Founder of The French Academy, shared their knowledge of French language and culture, helping audiences uncover the meanings and cultural nuances behind the lyrics featured in the programme.

In a gesture that deeply honoured us, Elsa spent her wedding anniversary evening sharing her passion and insights with our audience.

Special thanks to Alex, who coordinated the collaboration between Jamie Ong Music and The French Academy.

Beyond helping audiences appreciate French vocal music, this experience also deepened our understanding as performers. The relationship between language, musical interpretation, and expression became an important part of how we approached Ravel's Asie.