Music / Percussion
Polyrhythm Metronome
Visualize and practice complex time signatures, cross-rhythms, and exotic meters. Two independent layers with accent patterns. Everything runs client-side via Web Audio.
What is a Polyrhythm?
A polyrhythm is the simultaneous use of two or more conflicting rhythms that don't easily resolve into each other. For example, playing three evenly-spaced beats against two (3:2, known as a hemiola) is the most fundamental polyrhythm in music. These cross-rhythms appear across West African drumming, Afro-Cuban son clave, Indian Carnatic music, Balkan folk traditions, progressive rock, and contemporary handpan performance.
How to Use This Metronome
Select a preset or choose custom time signatures for each layer. Click the accent circles to cycle between strong accents, weak accents, ghost notes, and silent beats. The circular visualization shows both layers as concentric rings with a rotating playhead, while the linear grid below provides a timeline view. Use the swing slider to add a shuffle feel, and tap the Tap Tempo button to set BPM by feel.