Syncopation

Syncopation is a musical technique where the emphasis or accent is placed on beats or parts of beats that are usually weak or unaccented in the regular flow of rhythm. It creates a sense of surprise and rhythmic interest by shifting the expectation of where the strong beats occur. Think of it as playing with the timing to make the music sound more dynamic and engaging. It's common in many styles, from jazz to pop, and adds a layer of complexity and vitality to the rhythm.