A Mel Bay Publications, Inc. Webzine
October 2008 · Bimonthly
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Rock GroovingThe Metronome and you: Secrets to a Successful Relationshipby Bill Stuhlly “CLICK” “CLICK” “CLICK” If those sounds make you break out into a sweat or question your existence...then this article is for you. The metronome, or as it is commonly know as “The Click” is your best friend NOT your worst enemy. The purpose of this device is to give you confidence and help you hear timing. Most of those feelings of torture are in your own head and if you’re playing music that’s the wrong place to be! I know that sounds crazy but here’s some tips to really open up your ears and have fun with “The Click”. First, think of it as a person you’re jamming with who happens to have perfect time. Don’t fight, follow or chase it just BE with it. Hear the 8th note subdivisions within the clicking and sing them. If you have a metronome that gives you 8th note subdivisions use it and sing along. Try this exercise away from the drums. EX 1: Set the metronome to quarter notes. Start at 60BPM and subdivide the quarter notes into 8ths like this: 
Use a short syllable to represent the subdivisions and if you speed up or slow down stop and start over. Don’t chase, follow or watch the light on the metronome while singing, we’re trying to get OUT of your head and use your ears. Relax and concentrate on hearing the beats. After you feel comfortable go to the drums and play a basic 8th note rock groove: EX 2: 
Your lead hand should now take over the clicks of the metronome and when the clicks disappear it’s called “Burying the click”. DON”T PANIC, stay focused and if the click reappears, stop and sing the subdivision. DO NOT speed up and slow down to catch it, that’s called chasing. For now you’re focusing on the lead hand/HH and if your co-ordination is solid the BD and Snare should fall right in time. PT 2 will explore singing more complex BD and Snare parts while playing with the metronome. About the Author Bill Stuhlly is a pro drummer in the L.A. area. During his years on tour, Bill has had the privilege of performing with many artists. Here is a short list: John Lee Hooker, Hypnotic Clambake, Mike Gordon (Phish), Susan Tedechi, Leftover Salmon, The Fourhorsemen, Artis "The Spoonman", The Olives, Michelle Shocked, Blue Man Group, The Dirges, Opiate for the Masses and countless others. Check out his playing and resume @ www.myspace.com/stuhlly and his band The Dirges can be heard @ www.myspace.com/thedirges [ top ] | |
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