metronome
Sign in to saveA metronome () is a device that produces an audible click or other sound at a uniform interval that can be set by the user, typically in beats per minute (BPM). Metronomes may also include synchronized visual motion, such as a swinging pendulum or a blinking light. Musicians—and others including dancers, athletes, and health professionals—often practise with a metronome to improve their timing, especially the ability to maintain a steady tempo with a regular beat or pulse. Composers and conductors often use numerical metronome markings to communicate their preferred tempos to musicians prepari
AI overview
A metronome is a device that produces regular, evenly-spaced sounds (clicks or beeps) at a speed you set, usually measured in beats per minute, and it may also include visual elements like a swinging pendulum. Musicians, dancers, athletes, and other professionals use metronomes during practice to develop better timing and the ability to maintain a steady, consistent tempo.
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Article
19 sectionsContents
- Etymology
- History and types
- Mechanical metronomes
- Electromechanical metronomes
- Electronic metronomes
- Software metronomes
- Vibrating metronome
- Usage
- Tempo indication
- Pacing tool
- Metronome technique
- Percussion instrument
- Reception
- Positive views
- Stricter rhythm in modern performance practice
- Criticisms
- Alternatives to metronome use
- References
- External links
A metronome () is a device that produces an audible click or other sound at a uniform interval that can be set by the user, typically in beats per minute (BPM). Metronomes may also include synchronized visual motion, such as a swinging pendulum or a blinking light. Musicians—and others including dancers, athletes, and health professionals—often practise with a metronome to improve their timing, especially the ability to maintain a steady tempo with a regular beat or pulse. Composers and conductors often use numerical metronome markings to communicate their preferred tempos to musicians preparing for a performance.
A type of metronome was among the inventions of the Andalusian polymath Abbas ibn Firnas (810–887). In 1815, the German inventor Johann Maelzel patented a mechanical, wind-up metronome as a tool for musicians, under the title "Instrument/Machine for the Improvement of all Musical Performance, called Metronome". In the 20th century, electronic metronomes and software metronomes were invented.