How do I keep a steady tempo?

System overload! - too many notes, too much to read, and the next thing you know rhythm is flying out the window. Well..that’s the way it can feel for me at least.

One of my personal struggles is wanting to get to the end result quickly while working on a piece. I know how a piece should sound, but my brain and fingers just can’t keep up. I push the tempo and hit a wall and have to slow down. Albeit comical it’s a little like driving in traffic here in the Twin Cities, you get going and then have to stop, get going and stop…repeat the process.

My suggestion, have a little faith in yourself that you’ll get there, be patient, and slow down! In slowing a piece down you’ll at least have a little more time to think things through- notes, fingerings, sharps/flats, etc., and find a tempo that you can keep steady.

Do you need a metronome? I feel a metronome can be helpful, but I know a metronome can be a turn off for some. If this is the case, try moving, clapping, or speaking with a pulse, and then shut it off. The metronome or beat is there to set an immediate goal. If you are unable to keep up with your slow beat, try going slower, or try a smaller chunk to isolate and practice. Oh and if you need a metronome in a pinch, type metronome into a Google search, and off you go. Depending on the situation you might like to opt for some beat loops or you could create your own beat and loop it via the Garageband beat sequencer. I’ve used sampled drum beats from my keyboard while working with students- drum beats may better enhance the music more so than a metronome.

As you improve a section of a piece you may want to try to mix the tempo a bit. I feel it can be a good idea to do a slow - medium - and fast tempo, while working on a piece. That way you’re working on that physical and mental preparation and hopefully growing in confidence as you do so.

Best of luck!