playing with a metronome is the best way to improve command of the language of tempo and feel.
quote john McGann flatpicking guitar essentials.
he says you can play directly on the beat, or behind the beat using a click, he suggests 120 for a crotchet.
he then says play a down stroke on an open string with each click, then try playing slightly behind the beat.
he goes on. I have found practising with the metronome clicking two beats per measure is a great technique.
"Putting on the metronome and working slowly on tunes, going for TONE and forgetting about speed. Click on beats 2 and 4 (like a mandolin). Pick a nice easy tempo (yeah, I know, it's more fun to push the envelope and play fast. Bear with me)- play the tune. Next time, try pulling slightly behind the beat. Next time, try pushing the beat (playing a little ahead of it).
It's the feeling of pushing the beat that you want- NOT RUSHING, but having your notes up there like a hood ornament, while the metronome beat is the driver's seat...in other words, staying locked in with the pulse, but relatively ahead of it (Being a little behind is great for swing and jazz playing; it's also where a lot of less-that stellar bluegrass bass players put the beat!)
This feel can Make the Music Happen. Give it a try once you are comfortable just playing along with the metronome with the beat square in the middle (it's not easy, the first time I tried it I thought the thing was messed up, even though it was a quartz electric!)."
what are the opinions of forum members?