Count out loud
It can be very important to count out loud when practicing, especially when you are just beginning to learn an instrument. If there is a particular section where you are having difficulty with the timing as a more advanced musician counting out loud can help there as well. Counting out loud is also important when using a metronome. This helps establish the tempo in your own mind quickly and allows you to turn the metronome off sooner. Remember a metronome is used for establishing and checking the tempo, not to keep the tempo for you. It is your responsibility to keep the tempo and counting out loud helps you do that. Next time you have a problem with the timing of a section try playing through and counting out loud once you have established where the beats are in the bar and marked them on the music. You will be surprised at how much easier it is to establish the timing of the section!
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