Don’t Outsource Your Rhythm

Don’t outsource your rhythm: own it.

Who might you outsource your rhythm to?

  • A drummer.
  • A fellow ensemble member.
  • A conductor.

The only outsourcing that’s worthwhile is a metronome in the practice room. And even then, you should still be engaging actively with the rhythm, so that when the metronome turns off, you own the time.

How can you better own the time?

  • Practice with a metronome.
  • Physicalize the rhythm in your body.
  • Feel the subdivision.
  • Dance, march, or step in time.

Know that when the time comes, no one else can save you. Own it. Don’t outsource it.