What is the metronome?
A metronome is a device that produces an audible click or other sound at regular intervals.
BPM means beats per minute; it is the timing or tempo of the click sound. A digital metronome allows the user to set and change timing as required.
Benefits of using the metronome?
Will Improve Your Timing
An essential part of music presentation is timing, use the metronome as you practice to improve your rhythm
Helps You Build Speed
Play faster with while maintaining the right tempo by using the metronome, it is your guide to developing good cadence
Prepares you for live studio recordings
Prepare to jam with other musicians by perfecting your sense of timing, practice different timings using the metronome
How to use the metronome
Start by selecting a tempo using the slider. Alternately, you can tap the tempo by clicking the "TAP" button at the desired tempo.
Select the number of beats per measure, the fraction at the top left. Most music has 4, 3 or 2 beats per measure, in music notation denoted by time signatures such as 4/4, 3/4, 2/4 and 2/2. You can always select 1 if you don't know the number of beats per measure or ask your mentor.
Use the metronome to:
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Improve your playing technique. Start with a slow practice tempo and slowly increase the tempo when you can play the piece without any mistakes.
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Practice your chord progressions. Use the metronome as you practice changing between different chords, ensure to follow the beat and change chords in time
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Practice your tablature. Use the metronome when rehearsing your tabs to improve your rhythm and musical ear
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Play your scales. The metronome allows your playing to be musically sensible to listeners.
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Remember most GHA courses will have an end of course Exam that will require you to play different musical pieces along with the metronome, so it's better to get accustomed to using the tool.