metronome form. How to play a metronome on guitar

26.06.2020

Hello! I decided, so to speak, after my previous article to write a post where I want to consider in detail the question of why a metronome is needed for a guitarist, and also tell you the metronome device, its main types and purpose.

So, for starters, we will find out what a metronome is, and then we will move on to the varieties of this device.

Metronome- a mechanical or electronic device that measures (tap) a certain rhythm at a predetermined speed, in the range from 35 to 250 beats per minute. It is used by musicians when performing a composition as an accurate tempo guide and helps in rehearsals when practicing various exercises.

Any piece of music can be played in both slow and fast tempo. When learning a new composition, it is always necessary to start with a slow tempo, in order to end up playing each note clearly and beautifully. And in this way, gradually approach your goal, reaching the original tempo indicated in the piece of music, thanks to the metronome assistant.

Metronomes are divided into three families:

  • Mechanical
  • Electronic
  • Software

Each musician chooses for himself the metronome that best suits his requirements. Now let's take a closer look at each family.

Mechanical metronomes

The oldest and very first type of metronomes that was once invented. The current older generation, who attended music schools in childhood, still remembers small wooden pyramids that stood in glass cabinets or on pianos in the offices of strict music teachers. These pyramids are the ancestors of all modern metronomes.

This species has evolved quite a lot since then. Today, mechanical metronomes are made not only from wood, but also using modern composite materials, such as plastic, for example. Previously, these devices were stationary, but today they are already being made in a more compact size, so that they can easily be put in the pocket of a guitar case.

In the device of some metronomes, special bells began to appear, which emphasize the strong beat, while such an “accent” is set depending on the size of the musical composition being learned under the metronome. Of course, electronic counterparts are significantly superior in functionality to mechanical metronomes, but the latter have several undeniable advantages, which are still worth paying attention to. Here are the main ones:

  • visibility. A mechanical metronome has a pendulum that swings in different directions, so it is difficult not to notice even a musician who is completely absorbed in playing his instrument. He will always be able to track the movement of the pendulum with peripheral vision.
  • Sound. The natural click of a real movement cannot be compared with electronics. This sound is absolutely not annoying and it can be listened to as a serenade, and it also clearly fits into the overall picture of the sound of any instrument.
  • Form. In mechanical metronomes, it is traditional - in the form of a sophisticated pyramid. This design will add color to any room, as well as create a creative atmosphere.
  • Simplicity. Metronomes of this type, due to their clarity and ease of use, can be used by all musicians without exception, and I would also recommend them to beginner guitarists. They do not need batteries, because they have a mechanism like a watch, i.e. before use, the device must be wound up like an old mechanical alarm clock.

How does a mechanical metronome work?

The metronome device is simple to disgrace. The main parts are: steel spring, transmission, anchor escapement. Unlike mechanical watches, the pendulum here is not round, but long with a moving load, where the axis of the escapement comes into contact with the case and clicks on it. Some models also have a strong 2, 3, 5 and 6 beat function. Especially for this, the drum is mounted on the axis of the descent, which, like in a barrel organ, consists of several wheels with pins, and a bell with a lever moves along it. The bell gives the desired share, depending on which drum wheel it will be installed opposite.

Electronic metronomes

This is a new and modern kind of metronomes that have captured the hearts of many musicians around the world. Preference for such devices is most of all given by artists playing power tools. Electronic metronomes, as a rule, are small in size and therefore easily fit in the palm of your hand and can be hidden in any trunk or bag.

Digital metronomes have many useful features, such as tuning fork, accent, and accent shift, and are able to satisfy almost any "capricious" user. There are also hybrid models that are combined with a digital tuner, but we will talk about it in another article.

Separately, I would like to mention electronic metronomes for drummers, because. these devices are perhaps the most sophisticated of this family. Such metronomes, in addition to various accents and shifts, have additional features.

It's no secret that the brain of drummers is divided into 4 parts, each of which controls a specific limb. Especially for them, metronomes were invented, which can give out a rhythm personally for each limb of the percussionist. To do this, the device has several sliders (faders) in order to mix this or that rhythm for one or another leg or hand. This metronome also has a built-in memory for recording and storing rhythms for each individual song. At concerts, the thing is indispensable at all - turn on the right rhythm and rap on yourself calmly, being sure that you “can’t run ahead” from randomly surging emotions.

From the name it is clear that this is nothing more than a special program installed in the Windows OS environment or an application for Android and iOS. Like real metronomes, virtual metronomes similarly perform their function by generating sound signals at a predetermined tempo and / or using visual effects (flashing lights, displaying numbers). There are quite a few such programs and they are not difficult to find on the Internet.

That's actually all that I wanted to tell you in general terms about metronomes. I think now you understand why a metronome is needed for a guitarist, and you will become friends with him, because. this is a very useful and necessary thing in the arsenal of every musician. You will take the right step towards competent guitar playing, because “smooth” musicians have been valued at all times. This is especially appreciated when working together in a group with other musicians. Therefore, I wish you creative heights and success in music. See you soon on the blog pages!

If you are looking for online metronome for guitar with rhythms and drums, then this great online metronome with the ability to set the rhythm and select the drums will suit you.

A metronome is a device that measures equal intervals of time with beats. Used among musicians to determine the tempo during rehearsals. Suitable for any musical instrument: clarinet, guitar, piano or.

There is a fairly common misconception among beginners that there are guitar metronomes and piano metronomes. But in fact there is no distinction between them. All metronomes will perform the same functions and therefore suitable for any musical instrument.

Why do you need a metronome?

Metronomes are used by both beginners in the world of music and professionals who have already tried a variety of devices in their work.

The device performs many useful functions:

  • A steady and even beat creates the necessary pace;
  • Determines when to speed up or slow down while playing the instrument;
  • It helps the musician develop his own sense of rhythm.

In addition to being useful for musicians, the metronome is used in the practice of reading, exercising and other physical exercises, meditation (helps to concentrate) and dancing (keep the rhythm).
Rhythmic and precise sounds will allow you to simply concentrate your attention.

Develop a sense of rhythm and tact. Dancers often use the device in rehearsals to control the rhythm. In meditation, the device allows you to concentrate on your feelings and relax internally.

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What is a metronome?

The device incorporates a pyramid-shaped body, a pendulum, a cut edge and a weight. It is the weight that affects the frequency of beats, with its help you can adjust the number of beats per minute. This is done using the height of the load - the higher it is, the less often the blows and, accordingly, vice versa. At the back is a scale that shows the frequency of impact per minute using a pendulum.

Usually, the sound of the metronome is "tick-tock-tick", but there are metronomes that produce other sounds (bell, sticks, trill, alarm clock, beat, squeak, etc.). The monotonous sound allows the musician to concentrate and adjust to the tempo.

The body of the device is made of a wide variety of materials: plastic, wood, metal, plastic. The highest sounding quality was considered to be metronomes with a wooden case made of oak, mahogany or oak. Wood creates a lighter and deeper sound and is suitable for demanding musicians.

What are the types of metronomes?

The most common are mechanical, electronic metronome and online metronome.

  • Mechanical metronome- does not have batteries and electronic devices in its design. It is a box with a pendulum and a lever for setting the tempo.
  • Electronic metronome- includes a display, buttons and a speaker. It is possible to adjust the pendulum strokes per minute, sound and volume via the display.
  • Online metronome The metronome is currently the most widely used among musicians. It does not require downloads and can be enabled on any device, even phones and tablets. No app installation or download required.

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Application - requires downloading and installation on a tablet, phone or computer. It has disadvantages over an online device: it is not always free, it differs in the number of settings and functions.

Which metronome to choose?

The choice of a metronome by a musician is based on ease of use. But which one is better to use? Online metronome has a number of advantages over mechanical and electronic metronome.

  • No need to buy a metronome;
  • No need to carry the device with you;
  • Ability to use on any device and at any time;
  • Individual settings are quick and easy;
  • No downloads or apps;
  • Free at any time;
  • The device cannot be broken, lost or broken;
  • It is possible to adjust the sound volume;
  • Convenient interface;
  • Instructions on the site for use;

How to use the metronome - online?

Using the device via the Internet is simple and easy. Even a child can learn. You need to go online and search for " online metronome for guitar with rhythms and drums". Go to the site and set the necessary settings, click "Start".

The working time is not limited, if necessary, you can press "Pause" and continue after the break. You can change the characteristics at any time.

What settings can be adjusted in the online metronome?

The online metronome settings are numerous and will allow you to choose functions for even the most fastidious musician. The first thing you can adjust is beats per minute. Installed using the slider "on the site.

It is also possible to select the sound emitted by the device, starting from the classic “tok-tok-tick” sound, as well as any other sound, for example: cymbals, percussion, bottle, click, pulse, squeak, ringing, mechanical, wand on wand and many other.

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The sound created by a metronome is not inferior in quality to a classic device. It is just as deep and precise. Can match the most classic wood equipment - the choice of the discerning musician.

Are there any downsides to an online metronome?

There is only one drawback, and a very insignificant one - the need to connect to the Internet. But nowadays, the Internet is no longer a problem, it is available anywhere and, therefore, the online metronome can be used whenever and wherever you want.

Which metronome to choose?

Among such a large number of metronomes, it is difficult to make your choice, especially for a beginner who does not have the proper experience. But choosing a metronome is very easy.

Taking into account all the presented characteristics, we recommend making a choice in favor of an online metronome. Firstly, it does not require money, and secondly, a large number of customizable functions will allow you to customize the metronome to the individual requirements of each musician, whatever they may be.

The device does not need to be carried with you for fear of losing or breaking it, it will always be at hand, you just need to open the site and press the "Start" button. Online metronome for guitar with rhythms and drums always at your fingertips!

Those who are not involved in music may consider the metronome a useless device, and many do not even know what it is and what its purpose is. The word "metronome" is of Greek origin, and it was formed after the merger of the two words "law" and "measure". The invention of the metronome is associated with the name of the great composer Beethoven, who suffered from deafness. The musician was guided by the movements of the pendulum in order to feel the tempo of the piece. The "parent" of the metronome is the Austrian inventor Melzel I.N. The ingenious creator managed to design a metronome in such a way that it became possible to set the desired tempo of the game.

What is a metronome for?

Metronome is a device that plays regular sounds at a certain tempo. By the way, the number of beats per minute can be set independently. Who uses this rhythm machine? For beginners trying to master playing the guitar, piano or other instrument, a metronome is a must. After all, when learning a solo part, you can start a metronome to adhere to a certain rhythm. Music lovers, students of music schools and colleges, professionals cannot do without a metronome. Despite the fact that the sounds of the metronome resemble the loud “ticking” of a clock, this sound is perfectly audible when playing any instrument. The mechanism counts the beats and it becomes very convenient to play.

Mechanics or electronics?

Appeared before everyone mechanical metronomes made of plastic or wood. The pendulum beats the beat, and with the help of the slider, a certain tempo is set. The movement of the pendulum is clearly perceptible with peripheral vision. It is worth noting that the main "monsters" of musical art prefer mechanical metronomes.

Sometimes meet metronomes with bells(pictured left), which accentuates the downbeat in the bar. The accent can be set according to the time signature of the piece of music. The clicks of the mechanical pendulum are not particularly annoying, and are perfectly combined with the sound of any instrument, and anyone can tune the metronome.

An indisputable plus of mechanical devices- independence from batteries. Metronomes are often compared to clockwork: in order for the device to work, it must be wound up.

A device with the same functions, but with buttons and a display, is electronic metronome. Such a device can be taken with you on the road, thanks to its compact size. You can find models with a headphone jack. This mini metronome can be attached to an instrument or clothing.

Artists who play electronic instruments choose electrometronomes. The device has a lot of useful functions: accent shift, tuning fork and others. Unlike its mechanical counterpart, the electronic metronome can be set to "beep" or "click" if you don't like the "knock".

It is impossible to overestimate the importance of tempo in music, it is it that gives a certain character and mood to a piece of music. The ability to feel the tempo and strictly follow it is very important for a musician, and if this skill has not yet been developed or a jeweler's speed of performance is required, a metronome comes to the rescue. What are metronomes and why buy them? Let's figure it out.

Currently, there are a huge number of different models of metronomes, but all of them can be divided into two types: mechanical and electronic.

Mechanical metronomes

The classic Mälzel mechanical metronome is a pyramidal wooden case with a pendulum. In fact, you can find a great variety of case options - from plastic to metal, if we talk about the material, and from oval to animal figures, if you look at the shape.

The metronome is based on a spring mechanism, driven by the rotation of the crown. Such a metronome is practically eternal and does not require additional investments in the form of batteries. On the front side of the metronome are a pendulum and a scale. A movable weight is installed on the pendulum in accordance with a certain division of the scale. The higher the weight is located, the lower the frequency of oscillation of the pendulum, which means the lower the rate, and vice versa.


Almost all mechanical metronomes play all the classic tempos, from grave (very slow - 40 beats per minute) to prestissimo (very fast - 208 beats per minute). Sometimes you can find a special bell in metronomes that rings on a strong beat.

Mechanical metronomes are visual, easy to use, and can decorate any room. The mechanical metronome is especially popular with musicians performing classical music.

When purchasing a mechanical metronome, check its operation by placing it on a flat surface. Today, the German company WITTNER is the leader in the production of mechanical metronomes, but you can also find a good quality metronome among Chinese models.

Electronic metronomes

No matter how stylish mechanical metronomes look, their electronic counterparts are becoming increasingly popular, because they have a number of advantages. Advantages of electronic metronomes:

  • Size . Usually an electronic metronome is a small plastic box with a display and many buttons. Such a metronome does not take up much space, it is convenient to take it with you on the road and to the rehearsal.

    Tempo range . For electronic metronomes, it is wider: from 30 to 280 beats per minute.

    Multifunctionality . The set of functions for electronic metronomes is much larger. For example, in some models, you can adjust the sounds of reproduced strikes (knock, squeak, click).

    Various rhythmic patterns , which can be perfectly matched to the piece of music being played. Some metronomes allow you to create your own rhythm patterns, save them, loop them, and play them for as long as you want.

    Additional functions such as a tuner, tuning fork, recorder, stopwatch, or timer.

  • Display and backlight . For rehearsals in a darkened room or even at a concert, the backlight can help out a lot, not to mention the display, which shows all the necessary information.

Electronic metronomes are popular with guitarists, drummers, and other musicians who play a variety of styles of music, although classical music players will appreciate the compactness and versatility of these devices. Musicians playing wind instruments will surely like a portable microphone in the form of a clothespin, which is attached to the bell of the instrument.

Metronomes for drummers

Particular attention should be paid to electronic metronomes for drummers, which are of particular importance, given that in the group it is the drummer who sets the pace. Mechanical metronomes are not suitable for drummers at all, since the degree of their accuracy directly depends on the evenness of the surface on which it stands and the absence of vibrations. Yes, and the functionality is required more seriously.

Basic requirements for such metronomes:

    the ability to reproduce complex rhythmic patterns (for hands and feet),

    the presence of an output for connecting headphones,

    outputs for connecting a guitar, electronic pad or footswitch.

Typically, such metronomes have many different specific functions, such as recording presets, the ability to switch between them, and so on.

How can a drummer not get confused when looking at the widest range of metronomes and choose the right device? First you need to decide whether you need a simple metronome that can be heard well in headphones and cannot boast of a wealth of functions, or you need a complex device in which you need to program a change in tempo over time, work with various rhythm patterns, connect a metronome to a pad, connect a footswitch to turn on the metronome with your foot, and so on.

By the way, a drummer doesn't have to buy a metronome, because there are many electronic applications that will turn your gadget into a metronome with the same functions.

    Such electronic applications have a number of disadvantages:

    This metronome cannot be started with a food switch.

    Can't connect trigger

    The battery on the gadget can run out at the most inopportune moment

    It is not always convenient to use such a metronome.

Thus, if you are a drummer, then metronomes in the form of applications are quite suitable for home use, but for concerts and rehearsals, you should still choose a separate device.

Beginner drummers can use pads with built-in metronome or rhythm machines with additional functionality to develop a sense of rhythm.

So, a metronome is exactly the device that can help not only determine the tempo, but also most accurately organize music in time.

Metronome - now with dance beats!

Don't have a regular metronome? Ours will allow you to learn and rehearse pieces of music in a more comfortable way than with a regular metronome!

If you do not see the metronome above this inscription, then you need to download and install Adobe Flash Player

Good news: Today I received a letter from a childhood friend, classmate, Ivan Lyubchik, with whom they played in a school rock band (Usolye-Sibirskoye, Irkutsk region, 1973-1975). Here is the line: "… Hi Alexey. Yes he uses this metronome all the time … " - Ivan writes about one of his sons - Alexei. Bass player of the legendary group "Zveri" Aleksey Lyubchik rehearses with the metronome Virartek , and Alexey is a very high level musician. So look up to the masters!

Online Metronome is very easy to use:

  • First button on the left to select size from the list: 2/4, 3/4, 4/4, 5/4, 7/4, 3/8, 5/8, 6/8, 9/8 and 12/8
  • The tempo can be set in different ways: by moving the slider, using the " + " And " - "by moving the weight, making several clicks on the button in a row" Set the pace"
  • volume can be configured with a slider
  • Can turn off the sound and use visual indicators share: orange- "strong" and blue- "weak"
  • you can choose any of 10 sound sets: Wood, Leather, Metal, Raz-tick, E-A tones, G-C tones, Chik-tik, Shaker, Electro, AI Sounds and several percussion loops for different dance styles, as well as loops for learning triplets.

To play the drums at the original tempo and time signature, press the "reset tempo and time signature" button

Note that the tempo value is specified for BALTS, i.e. for a 4/4 time signature, 120 would mean 120 quarters per minute, and for a 3/8 time signature, 120 eighths per minute!

You can force the loop to play in a non-native time signature, this will give you additional variations on the rhythm patterns.

Sound sets "Tones E-A", "Tones G-C" can be useful for tuning a stringed instrument or for vocal chanting.

A large selection of sounds is convenient when using the metronome to practice pieces in different styles. Sometimes you need crisp, punchy sounds like "AI Sounds", "Metal" or "Electro", sometimes softer ones like in the "Shaker" set.

A metronome can be useful for more than just music. You can use it:

  • for learning dance movements;
  • doing morning exercises;
  • for training fast reading (a certain number of strokes for a period);
  • during concentration and meditation.
Tempo designations of musical works (according to the Wittner metronome scale)
beats per minute Italian Russian
40-60 Largo Largo - wide, very slow.
60-66 Larghetto Larghetto - pretty slow.
66-76 Adagio Adagio - slowly, calmly.
76-108 Andante Andante - don't rush.
108-120 Moderato Moderato - moderately.
120-168 Allegro Allegro - lively.
168-200 Presto Presto - fast.
200-208 Prestissimo Prestisimo - very fast.

Visitor comments:

01.03.2010 Gennady: About the metronome is correct. I would like to know how the rates that are written in notes (fast, slow, moderate, etc.) correlate with the frequency set by the metronome.

01.03.2010 Admin: Especially for you, we have added a plate for designating the tempo of musical works. See please.

16.05.2010 Irina: Hello! Grandson is 6 years old. He is studying music. school. The works are mostly in 2/4 size. How to use your metronome in this case. The strong beat should be on ONE and THREE?

18.05.2010 Admin: Exactly!

02.09.2010 Alexander: Good afternoon, a very high-quality electronic metronome, I have been looking for one for a long time. Tell me, is it possible to download it somehow, in order to place it in full screen (without a browser, etc.) to change the background color? I need it for visual use. Thank you.

21.01.2011 Admin: There is no such version yet, but most likely it will appear in February 2011.

23.10.2010 Admin: Almost ALL sizes are ADDED!!!

09.11.2010 Valerarv2: Wonderful, this was just not enough for me!

13.12.2010 Daria: Guys, I'm in the 7th grade of music. schools. I am preparing for the exams. Thank you very much! All over the world wide web I could not find a normal metronome with dimensions! Now I can finally get started :)

20.02.2011 Alex: Already the long-awaited February. How soon will the computer version of this miracle metronome appear?

28.02.2011 Svetlana: Great! I love! I would like this for my daughter to improve her piano playing. How to buy this metronome?

03.03.2011 programmer: The freely available metronome is great. Thank you! But the counting "one-and-two-and-three-and-four-and" would be useful too. Then there is a more complex rhythm within, say, the same 4/4 rhythm. The strong part, it seems to me, does not stand out much. It would be nice to do a variation with the cymbals hitting the downbeat. Good luck!

05.03.2011 Anton: Thanks for the handy tool! It's much easier to run than any professional app just for the sake of a metronome. I often use it for rehearsals and learning parts, working with students. I would like to ask you to add some sounds (with a sharper attack), as well as loops for practicing polyrhythm - triplets, duolis, etc. at a fast pace...

08.03.2011 Admin: Thank you all very much! We really appreciate all the suggestions and comments, and we will definitely continue to develop this application. Regarding the desktop version: we are unlikely to release it separately, but the Metronome will be included in the set of flash games "Music College" on CD, which is being prepared for release in the near future. Moreover, the applications will work both under Windows and on Mac computers.

23.04.2011 Julia: Good day! Thank you very much for the metronome. I am a teacher at a music school, you can't find mechanical metronomes during the day with fire, and almost all children have computers. They found you on the Internet. Now a lot of problems have disappeared. All students will become rhythmic)))))))))). Thanks, good luck!

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