Pat Metheny’s Priorities

September 5th, 2007 · Posted by Jeff · Leave Comments

To me, rhythm and what you do with it is everything…. Right after rhythm is melody.

Think about this quote for a while.

One often over-looked yet most important aspect of playing is rhythm and time. Being able to get into that pocket. Feeling the groove of the music. In order to become a master of the guitar, your timing must be excellent. It is was separates the good from the great. Being able to produce a steady tempo while playing indicates confidence and competence. If you are dragging and rushing, it sounds unprofessional.

Sure there are some forms of music that are experimental and free-form, but can you imagine listenting to a flamenco player who couldn’t keep a steady pulse. Many forms of music are driven and based around rhythm: funk, reggae, flamenco, hell pretty much everything is in some way. It is an extremely crucial element of sound, as it can affect the mood and entire feel of a piece of music.

So please take players’ advice when they say practice with a metronome. You will thank them and yourself by the results you get. If you don’t have one, check out this awesome link and use this free online metronome while you practice: http://www.metronomeonline.com/

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Tags: Guitar Lessons · Guitar Player Zen

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