Fwd: [Harp-L] Setting the tempo

[Peter Madcat Ruth <madcat@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Dave gives good advise. Even if you have a portable metronome to help you remember your tempo, it is still a good idea to snap your fingers. And I go one step farther.  I get the rhythm in my body.  I dance the tempo.  The other musicians not only hear my count off but can see the rhythm and tempo in my body.

Peter Madcat Ruth
Musician - Grammy Award Winner
madcat@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
www.madcatmusic.net
www.youtube.com/user/petermadcatruth



On Jan 4, 2013, at 1:33 PM, Dave Watson wrote:

> Elizabeth -- I remember years ago being very nervous counting off the  very 
> first song that I led so I know your pain.
> 
> I got this from watching Pierre Beauregard.  I start playing the song  in 
> my mind and then start snapping my fingers -- even while giving directions to 
> everyone on the key, etc. I keep snapping and make sure that I make eye  
> contact with the drummer ('cause if he don't get if right you're screwed --  
> there's no adjusting after the downbeat) and then I count it  off.
> 
> Dave Watson
> Alexandria, Va.