How to Use a Metronome for a Guitar Lesson

A metronome helps you keep your playing in time.

A metronome is a device that produces metrical clicks or ticks at a set tempo and most commonly is used by musicians to help them play their music in time with the beat. Modern metronomes vary greatly, from pendulum-driven devices to online virtual metronomes that play through computer speakers. Metronomes are useful devices for teaching guitar, particularly during the beginner stage of learning. It helps students gain an understanding of tempo from an early stage.

Instructions

1. Demonstrate and explain how a metronome works to your student. Show your student how to read the tempo of music on the sheet and how to adjust the tempo of the metronome. Most metronomes easily are adjusted to different tempos, but you start your student on the most straightforward quarter notes before advancing to eighth notes and triplets.

2. Instruct the student to play along a simple scale, such as the E major scale, at a very basic tempo along with the metronome. As he plays, mute the metronome, if possible, and challenge your student to stay on tempo. Instruct him to continue to play the scale, then turn on the metronome and see if your student has maintained tempo. If he lost the tempo, explain to him where he went wrong, such as too slow or too fast. Instruct the student to repeat the metronome challenge.

3. Introduce eighth and triplet notes to challenge your student. This signals her move from beginner to intermediate level. Take your time with the student because if she feels overwhelmed by the increased tempo, her confidence may be shaken. Teach your student how to make adjustments to the metronome, and challenge her to play more complex, faster pieces to help her develop her understanding and appreciation of tempo. Some electric metronomes feature different beat styles, such as reggae tempos. Encourage your student to experiment with different musical styles to give her the broadest appreciation of tempo.

References

• Yellow Guitar Books: How To Use A Metronome
• Guitar Masterclass: How To Use A Metronome - Video Lesson
• Franz MFG: A Brief History Of The Metronome