Rhythm designates the characteristic, repeating sequence (structure) of long and short, accentuated and unaccented sounds and pauses. In Western music, rhythm is most often divided into uniform repeating sections (measures). Together with melody, rhythm defines the temporal (horizontal) progress of a piece, whereas harmony defines its tonal (vertical) devolution.

The decision about the rhythm is at the beginning of each composition. James Hill emphasizes:

A good solo doesn't have to have many notes but it must have solid rhythm.¹⁾

In ukulele performance, rhythm is decisive for the selection of a fitting strum pattern.