A device that produces a steady pulse at a set tempo, measured in beats per minute (BPM). MM=120 means 120 quarter-note beats per minute.
Patented by Johann Maelzel in 1815. Beethoven was one of the first major composers to publish metronome markings, though some of his tempos are controversially fast.
Understanding metronome is essential for reading and writing music accurately. Whether you are a beginner learning to read notation or an experienced composer, knowing how this musical element works improves your musicianship.
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