How to Use Our Metronome
- Change the BPM (Beats per Minute) by clicking the plus and minus buttons to adjust the BPM setting for the metronome.
- Change the notes per measure. The default is four.
- Uncheck the “Stress first beat” button if you don’t want to have the first beat of a measure sound different.
- Click the “Play” button or press the spacebar.
- Click pause or press the spacebar to pause the metronome.
What Is a Metronome?
A metronome is a device that produces a steady pulse or beat to mark time. It allows musicians to accurately maintain a consistent tempo while practicing or performing music. The typical metronome consists of a pendulum or digital timekeeper that produces a clicking or ticking sound at regular intervals.
The main purpose of using a metronome is to develop a strong sense of steady rhythm and timing. When first learning a new piece of music, playing along with a metronome helps the musician internalize the proper tempo and rhythmic feel. Metronomes are especially useful for practicing difficult passages, polyrhythms, or sections where the tempo needs to be precise.
Metronomes have settings to adjust the tempo marking, typically measured in beats per minute (BPM). The higher the BPM, the faster the pulse produced by the metronome. Musicians can start slowly with a new piece and then gradually increase the metronome speed as they master the rhythm and notes. Some advanced metronomes can produce rhythmic patterns beyond just a single pulse to work on more complex time signatures.
Metronome and Tempo Markings
Tempo | Meaning | BPM |
Largo | Broadly | 40–60 bpm |
Adagio | Slowly with great expression | 66–76 bpm |
Andante | Walking pace | 76–108 bpm |
Moderato | Moderate speed | 98–112 bpm |
Allegretto | Moderately fast | 102–110 bpm |
Allegro moderato | Moderate allegro | 116–120 bpm |
Allegro | Fast, quick, bright | 120–156 bpm |
Vivace | Lively and fast | 156–176 bpm |
Presto | Very very fast | 168–200 bpm |
Prestissimo | Faster than presto | 200 bpm+ |