Published on March 4th 2021 by Hillary-Marie
I get a lot of questions about metronomes in the iTapOnline™ Community Facebook Group and during iTap Chats for iTapOnline™ Members.
Questions like…
What does a metronome actually help you do?
At what age should dancers be introduced to metronomes?
At what level should dancers be introduced to metronomes?
How often should I use my metronome?
And can I just say…
I LOVE these questions!
BENEFITS OF A METRONOME
The metronome will never lie to you.
Ever.
It’s the universal truth teller.
It tells you if you’re rushing, or dragging through a phrase. It also tells you if your subdivisions are evenly spaced.
RUSHING VS. DRAGGING
If you’re dancing to a metronome and you feel like it’s pushing your forward, that means you’re “dragging”, which means you’ve fallen behind the beat.
If you’re dancing to a metronome and you feel like it’s pulling you backwards, that means you’re “rushing”, which means you’re ahead of the beat.
WHEN TO USE A METRONOME IN PERSONAL PRACTICE
WHEN TO USE A METRONOME IN CLASS
I was just using the metronome in FutureSTEP rehearsal the other day because they were blowing through a roll that I gave them, and ending their phrase way too early. When we did it acapella, it was fine, but as soon as the music came on, the clarity went out the window.
After about 20 minutes with the metronome, it was super clean with music, and the roll hasn’t been a problem since. They just needed that time to clarify where the accents were and how they lined up with the down beat.
My students have gotten so used to the metronome, that they know to ask for it when they need it. And it makes my day every time that they do!
WHAT ABOUT YOU?
Do you like to practice with a metronome? Do your students? Share in the iTapOnline™ Community Facebook Group and let me know!
50% Complete
Fill out the form below and I'll send them to your email right away.