When I first started playing guitar, I really avoided using a metronome. -Big mistake! since it hindered my progress.
If I could go back in time, I would definitely tell my old self to use a metronome during practice!
If you're a beginner guitar player, using a metronome to practice with is a must. In this article I'll delve into some of the reasons why.
What Is A Metronome?
A metronome is a device that marks time at a selected rate by producing a click (or a beep sound).
The metronome will allow you to set how fast (or how slow) you would like it produce its clicking sound (in beats per second).
The two basic types of metronomes are:
- Analog (mechanical) metronome.
- Digital (electronic) metronome.
The most common and probably the most popular type of metronome is the digital one, since it usually comes in the form of an app on your phone.
A Metronome Will Help You Internalize A Steady Beat
As you're already aware, a piece of music played on the guitar generally needs to keep a steady tempo.
If you (unintentionally) speed up or slow down the tempo of the song you're playing, your listener will be able to tell right away.
What will help you avoid this is practicing with a metronome.
How? Because if you practice long enough with it, you'll develop the ability to tap out a steady beat without it.
This doesn't happen overnight, so the sooner you start using a metronome, the faster you'll be able to develop this ability.
Metronomes Are Not Expensive!
Metronomes are not expensive, heck you can even download a free metronome app to your smart phone.
Yup, you don't have to leave the comfort of your home to purchase one.
Learning To Practice With A Metronome Is Not Difficult
There's quite a bit on your plate when you're first learning to play the guitar -yeah, I remember it well.
With so much to learn, it may seem like using a metronome is only complicating things more! Don't let this thought process convince you to avoid learning to how practice with it.
After a few days, practicing/playing with one will become easier. After a while, it'll become second nature.
