Metronomes

A metronome is a necessary tool for all musicians.  I recommend that my piano students purchase a metronome for home practice within the first 6 months of lessons.  The sooner one learns to play with a metronome, the better!

What is a metronome, you ask?  A metronome is a device that was invented in the 19th century for the purpose of helping musicians maintain a steady tempo.  A metronome helps musicians to internalize a sense of timing and maintain a steady tempo while playing.  It can also be useful for pointing out irregularities in one's rhythm.  Practicing pentascales, scales or other drills along with the metronome at a slow tempo is extremely beneficial.  Many composers indicate a metronome marking at the beginning of a piece or movement, so the musician understands the intended tempo at which to play. I recommend starting at a slow tempo (practice speed) and increasing the tempo gradually to a performance speed.

A quality metronome can be found for less than $20.00.  The metronome I recommend for my students is a Matrix MR500.  It has long-lasting battery power and is very simple for students to use on their own.  You can purchase a metronome at any music store or at an online retailer such as Amazon.com. 



Here is a direct link to Amazon.com's listing: Matrix MR500.

For students who practice near a computer, here is a very good online metronome that can be played through your computer's speakers.  Simply slide the indicator up for a slower tempo or down for a fast tempo.  Online Metronome