Stephan Richter obtained his degree in Classical Music (Cello major) at the Zurich Conservatorium of Music in Switzerland. He further studied in New York on Electric Bass with Rick Laird and Tony Oppenheim. He currently works as a session musician and teacher. Stephan is author of Progressive Slap Technique for Bass, Tapping Technique for Bass. Heavy Metal Method and Heavy Metal Techniques for Bass, Heavy Metal Licks Volumes 1 and 2, Progressive Bass Guitar Licks. Introducing Bass, Rhythm Section Method. Rhythm Section Grooves. Rock Bass and Rock Licks.
The Metronome
A metronome is a device that plays a continuous beat. It is used to help control your timing so that you do not rush or slow down. The beat is heard as a ticking or beeping sound and the speed can be adjusted. The speed of the beat, which is called the tempo, is measured in beats per minute (BPM).
The accompanying photo shows a mechanical metronome and an electronic metronome.
Music is commonly written with a tempo mark to indicate what speed the piece should be played. For example, 60 BPM is represented as 3 = 60. If learning a piece at the written tempo is difficult, try lowering the BPM of the metronome (slowing it down) until you can play evenly and in time. Then gradually speed up the metronome until you can play it at the correct speed.
