Using a metronome in lessons: Cellist teacher Sarah Rogerson introduces Pulse to her students

Sarah Rogerson is a cellist and teacher based in Dallas, Texas. With over seven years of teaching experience, her philosophy is to create an environment where students can acquire cello skills, including the use of a metronome, while appreciating the beauty and complexity of music.

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She teaches students of all ages and performs in musicals for prestigious theaters. Sarah has generously shared her teaching experiences, including how she incorporates a metronome and the Soundbrenner Pulse into her lessons.

How do you motivate your students to learn music?

After years of teaching, I’ve learned that every student progresses at a different rate. One of the biggest motivators is when students begin to enjoy how they sound and recognize that they are making music. This not only boosts their confidence but also inspires them to continue.

Another motivating factor is when students, especially younger ones, perform for an audience, usually family members. I encourage this at almost every lesson, allowing them to receive immediate recognition and feedback from others.

I also assign weekly practice logs with specific passages, music theory homework, scales, and the use of a metronome. Students are required to record their practice time and complete all assignments. Consistency is key to encouraging students to take their practice seriously.

What are the everyday challenges of teaching music to young students?

Teaching music to young students requires a great deal of patience and creativity. The process can be slow, and young students often get bored quickly. Focusing on one or two concepts at a time, using a metronome, and incorporating creativity makes lessons enjoyable for both the student and teacher. I like to include games in my lessons to maintain their attention and improve their coordination and motor skills.

Do you usually teach with a metronome? If so, what are the benefits? What are the challenges?

Yes, I typically teach with a metronome. The benefits are significant; it helps students maintain a steady beat, understand time and rhythm, and control their speed while playing. The challenges arise when a student is first learning to use a metronome, as this requires practice and adjustment.

“What I was hoping for is that the Pulse would make it easier for students to follow the beat.”

Before using the Pulse, how did you expect this tool to help your teaching?

I hoped the Pulse would make it easier for students to follow the beat while using a metronome. The device allows students to use touch through vibrations, freeing their ears to listen to their sound while playing. I expected my students would find the Pulse less annoying than a standard metronome click.

How did your students react to the Pulse?

They provided positive feedback. My younger students were enthusiastic about the device and found it easy to follow along. Older students agreed that it was not challenging to use, and they appreciated the ability to change the tempo to their preference.

Has the Soundbrenner Pulse helped you in tackling some of the challenges you mentioned?

Yes. My students reacted differently to the Pulse compared to a typical click metronome.

“I believe the Pulse to them is equivalent to having an internal beat. It is more organic and natural to handle. The Pulse changed my students’ perspective about using a metronome to a more positive one.”

Do you think the Pulse is more effective than a traditional metronome?

I think the Pulse is very useful for young children learning to follow a beat. The vibrations are more comfortable to follow than a traditional click metronome.

For more experienced musicians, both the Pulse and click metronome have their pros and cons. It’s easier to feel a vibration than to listen for a click while playing.

However, while teaching, I cannot hear the beat, making it difficult to know if the student is following it precisely. I did notice my students playing at a much steadier tempo while using the Pulse.

Do you have tips for other music teachers, especially on teaching rhythm?

I suggest being creative while teaching rhythm and using a metronome. Each student has a different way of understanding concepts. Approach rhythm from various angles to see what works best for your student. Be clear when explaining concepts, and remember to repeat, review, and demonstrate often.