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# Rhythm Guitar 301 - Triplets And The Shuffle

 [   ![Michael Palmisano](https://www.guitargate.com/sites/default/files/styles/thumbnail/public/users/pictures/2025-10/Michael-Black-Square_0.png.webp?itok=SQSV2wMJ)    Michael Palmisano @michael  ](/user/4/view)Welcome to level 3!

Now that we’ve learned about straight rhythms and syncopated rhythms, it’s time to add one more rhythmic concept: triplets and “the shuffle.”

Triplets are 3 beats that fit equally in one beat, or one beat divided by three. This is a significantly different sound than eighth notes, which as you remember are two beats in one.

You count these beats Tri-Pel-let

Try counting these with your hands on your knees, and then on your guitar. It’s a lot of fun and it will open up tremendous rhythmic possibilities.

A great example of using triplets as a rhythmic base is “the shuffle,” common in blues.

The shuffle is a triplet without the middle note (pel in tri-pel-let).

Try playing triplets not only with chords, but in scales as well. It’s a great way to add more character to your lead playing, so practice your scales with a metronome but vary between triplets and eighth / quarter notes.

Good luck!

 

 

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