Practicing with a metronome is really important for improving on instrument and developing as a musician. I put together this little lesson for people who want to get the benefits of using a metronome but need a system to help them get started. I used to think of metronome work as a chore but I truly love it now. I hope these tips help you do the same.
Start Slow and Start with a Single Note
- Set the metronome to 60 to 80 bpm for the half note.
- Feel the beat for a moment and rock with it.
- Play down picks on every click to time your half note.
- Once you are locked in add a down pick between each click for the quarter note.
- Once the quarter note is solid, rhythmic and easy ad an eight not with an up-pick between each quarter note.
- Spend some time on each string before moving to the next.
Practice the same with Strumming
- Same steps as above.
- Mute the strings with the left hand
- Keep the pick hold relaxed
- Swing the arm with a little motion in the elbow, wrist, and fingers
Mix them up
- Think of picking as a tiny version of strumming.
- Stay relaxed with your pick hold.
- Experiment with pick angle, pick grip, and volume.
- Alternate between picking single notes and strumming muted strings
- Explore the transition from strumming to picking and notice what works best for each.
Move from string to string
Try Some Syncopations
Now Play a Tune!
I like to start with the simplest version of a tune at a manageable tempo. As I get really comfortable with it I’ll add variations. I might try a faster tempo, again starting with the simple version of the tune. If I feel like I’m falling out of sync with the metronome as I’m playing variations, I use the simplest version of the tune to calibrate my quarter notes.
I added a few simple tunes along with the full lesson to the PDF below. I hope this exercise helps you as much as it helps me. Enjoy!
If you love the lesson feel free to reach out. I teach private lessons in person and online. I do group classes, jam sessions, and concerts as well.
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Justin Heath 