- 1). Study and memorize the various basic rhythm types. These types include standard, march, waltz, jazz and blues.
- 2). Review any particular nuances the assigned piece may possess. For example, baroque pieces contain a steady rhythm that strictly follows a metronome's beats. A romantic period piece will be written with a specific rhythm, but will actually stray from that rhythm on certain parts to add the desired emotion.
- 3). Practice every piece with a metronome when your hands are first learning their parts. By starting out with a metronome at this stage, your hands will know the proper rhythm and keep it when the tempo increases.
- 4). Understand the position of each measure's accent notes. The most distinguishable way to reveal you are lost in a piece is to miss the accent notes. If in doubt as to where the accent note is placed, consult your instructor or listen to a professional recording of the piece.
- 5). Attempt improvisation often during practices. Improvisation with different rhythms trains the ear to accurately assess and stay on beat no matter what rhythm type is being used.
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