A
metronome is a vital tool in music education that most teachers utilize within their instruction. Therefore, even more important for the time keeper of a band (the drummer) to practice with a metronome!
How should I begin?
You will learn that when you first start practicing with a
metronome it can be challenging. Be patient! Like any new skill it will take time.
- Start by setting your metronome to 80 beats per minute. This will give you enough time between beats to concentrate
- Play a standard 4/4 beat. Land your beat in sync with the beat of the metronome
- As you become comfortable, increase the tempo of your metronome while maintaining your form and technique
- Once you feel like you are getting good at staying in sync, practice a variety of different rhythms & tempos
What type of metronome should I use?
To get started, pretty much any metronome will do.
A good start-up metronome for drummers is the
Snark SM11. It's small, inexpensive, and reliable. It has an extra-loud speaker (great for drummers) and an earphone jack. If you're looking for a metronome that's design especially for drummers, the
Tama RW105 Rhythm Watch is terrific. It has a ton of unique and useful features and is so reliable that many pro drummers use it on stage.
Practicing with a
metronome will improve your drumming dramatically, so if you don't have one,
get one!
You will be amazed at how much it will increase your level of playing.
Copyright 2006 Daniel N Brown