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Q: I've read about using a metronome when you practice. Whats a metronome?
FAQ: Whats a metronome?
A: A metronome is a handy little device that holds perfect beat. It does this by producing regular ticks or beats. A metronome is very useful when you need to practice at a certain tempo or whenever you're trying to increase your speed on the guitar. Tempo on a metronome is Beats per Minute (Abbreviated BPM).
A mechanical Metronome in action. Tick - tock - tick - tock...
Metronomes come in three forms - mechanical, electronic and software. A Mechanical metronome is that funny looking devices you always spotted on your piano teacher's table. Its triangular shape holds a metal ticker you wind up, then stand back to let it rip. You adjust the speed through a slider on the ticker itself.
Most modern metronomes are electronic and these follow the same principle, but use electronics and quartz crystal to maintain beat.
Most modern metronomes are electronic and these follow the same principle, but use electronics and quartz crystal to maintain beat.
When exactly would you use a metronome? The first answer that comes to my mind is scales! Metronomes are great for practicing scales and increasing your speed through them. You may only be able to play a scale at 150BPM at present, but by practicing with a metronome and increasing the tempo at which you play every day with, say 5BPM's, you'll gradually train you fingers and brain to play quicker and quicker. It's a great feeling!
For those of us using the internet the learn guitar, software metronomes are especially handy. For a great online metronome you can use in your guitar practices, visit the guitar tools section.
For those of us using the internet the learn guitar, software metronomes are especially handy. For a great online metronome you can use in your guitar practices, visit the guitar tools section.