Week 2 - Metronome

This week my goal was to utilize the metronome feature on a regular basis with the Yamaha Harmony Director Keyboard.  This was my goal because I knew it would be a feature I would use on a regular basis and that it would be an easy goal to achieve. My trouble in utilizing this function is simply re-training myself to use the metronome instead of simply counting out-loud or snapping my fingers to start the ensemble. It's very easy to fall back into old habits of simply vocalizing the count-off to start the group, but it can also prove to be an inconsistent tempo and you cannot utilize the subdivision feature when count aloud.

The subdivision feature helps a lot when I am teaching rhythms to my students. This week we focused on syncopated rhythms along with eighth note rest patterns, The implementation of the metronome not only proved to keep the tempo consistent, it also allowed the students to internalize the subdivision of the eighth note pulse while reading the rhythms that contained the eight note rest patterns as well as the syncopated rhythmic patterns.

My major take away from this week was to retrain myself to utilize the metronome technology to establish a steady pulse and to create a more consistent routine for our rhythmic drills. Once I can establish my routine of utilizing this option the students will have a much more consistent opportunity for success when practicing and learning new rhythms.