The Zeïbékiko
Under the Microscope

Microrhythm in Greek popular music

A collaborative research project with Yorgos Evangelou, investigating how timing shapes the rhythmic character of zeïbékiko in recorded performances.

The project

Rhythmic notation provides a framework for describing zeïbékiko's nine-beat cycle, but it does not capture every aspect of its performance. The timing and articulation of beats and subdivisions offer another perspective on how this rhythm takes shape in music.

Our research examines these details through close listening and analysis of selected recordings. We ask how performed timings relate to notated patterns, which features recur across performances, and where recordings differ.

Listening and analysis

We use Sonic Visualiser to examine recordings through waveform and spectrogram views, alongside repeated listening. Onset annotations mark the beginnings of selected sounds, allowing us to compare the timing of beats and subdivisions within and between rhythmic cycles.

These measurements are considered alongside the musical context. Identifying an onset involves listening to instrumental articulation and deciding which sounds provide useful reference points for the rhythm. Our approach therefore connects timing measurements with musical interpretation.

Conference presentation

We presented The Zeïbékiko Under the Microscope: Microrhythm in Greek Popular Music at Rhythm under the Microscope II, held at mdw – University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna, 22–24 October 2026.

Ongoing questions

Questions arising from this work include how timing patterns relate to tempo, instrumental articulation and interaction between performers. These questions guide further listening and analysis, helping us distinguish recurring rhythmic features from those specific to a recording or performance.

Related research and enquiries

This collaboration forms part of my wider interest in rhythm, groove and musical interaction. Related work explores rhythmic transformation in songwriting, including relationships between zeïbékiko, blues and shuffle feels.

For an overview of my work, visit the Research page. For research enquiries or collaborations, please get in touch through the Contact page.