So, what Is Rhythm in Music? Rhythm is the pattern of sound, silence, and emphasis in a song. In music theory, rhythm refers to the recurrence of notes and rests (silences) in time. When a series of notes and rests repeats, it forms a rhythmic pattern.

What is the main purpose of rhythm? In music, rhythm serves as the driving force that propels a piece forward and provides a composition structure. The members of an ensemble or a band would not be able to keep time without the underlying beat, time signature, and tempo.