How valuable is a metronome musically ?

Question

How valuable is a metronome musically ?

Answer 1

When I started years ago, I never used a metronome cuz I couldn't afford one but, I did listen and played with old records of The Ventures. I learnt all their leads completely.

Basically, what i am saying is ear training helps in the timing regardless of a metronome. There is an old sayingfor drummers that applies to everybody.

Listen to your heartbeat. That is the best metronome God gave us.

I am not saying a metronome is no good . I am just saying that many musicians have perfect timing and never practiced with a metronome. I do a lot of Studio sessions with different music and my timing is perfect.

Again, playing along with other people's music, on CD or old vinyl or whatever, gives you a very good insight on timing. The reason is pure and simple. When you practice with a metronome, you can restart anytime, but when you follow a song from A to Z non-stop, it keeps you in check.

Even if you make mistakes, you keep on going till the very end and then , restart.

Answer 2

it keeps you in time better.

Answer 3

every musician should have one

Answer 4

i guess especially when recording classical music, it helps keep timing......

Answer 5

Keeps the music on time, absolutely vital when recording.

Answer 6

very... always gives you something to play against, or with.  Timing in the head can vary.

Answer 7

Keep the right tempo flowing.

I'd say if you dont have a good ear for music, its pretty useful.

Answer 8

No musician should be without one!  A person's perception of how they are performing is never exactly what is truly happening.  Think of when you hear your own voice on a recording.  I find when I practice with a metronome, places that are difficult I would slow down without realizing it.  So it seems like the metronome is speeding up on me - but it's really just keeping me steady.  I always joke that the little man in the metronome knows when the music is hard and he speeds up just to mess with me.  :)

Answer 9

it is very valuable, in practice especially. when you arent playing with a group, like band or something where there are other instruments and parts going on that you can play off of, it helps to keep you practicing the right tempos. so you wont rush or be too slow in performance.. and if you are trying to work on being able to play a song faster, you can use a metronome to start you off at a slow tempo, and then gradually raise the speed faster and faster as you get the notes right at higher tempos.. honestly, i rarely use my metronome ha, but its really good to have one.

Answer 10

Very. The metronome's always right. You on the other hand, may not be. no matter how right you think you are.

Answer 11

It is a very important tool for use in at-home playing, especially when the piece is unfamiliar.  This time keeping device provides an unbiased beat that won't slow down or speed up to match you.  As a band director, I required my students to purchase one.