How to Read a Metronome

A metronome produces a series of equally spaced clicks that teach musicians to keep time.

A metronome is a training tool that helps aspiring and professional musicians keep the proper time when playing their tunes. There are different types of metronomes, including the old-fashioned tapping machine or the more modern digital display. Learn to read your metronome so you can be certain that you are practicing the right timing. If you know how to set and read your metronome, you will find your practice times more successful.

Instructions

1. Look at the front of the metronome. The front is where the little arm swings back and forth to make the ticking sound.

2. Adjust the tempo by sliding the tab to different tempos. You may notice small engravings that say 40 BPM (beats per minute).

3. Adjust the tempo to a higher BPM as you progress. Look at the tab area and slide it to a higher tempo. The highest rhythm is 208 BPM.

4. Examine the front of the electric metronome. The front will have a digital display or some type of dial. The electric metronomes display tempos in increments of 2 BPM higher or lower, ranging between 40 and 208 BPM.

5. Set the metronome to match the beat of your sheet music. Look at the sheet music for any metronome cues. There may be notations that say, "40 BPM," or "M.M = 40." If you're unsure of the BPM, then try setting the machine to tick at 50 BPM first and adjust if you need to.

References

• Yellow Guitar Books: Using a Metronome
• Learn to Play Piano: Learn Tempo with a Metronome
• Justin Guitar: How to Use a Metronome