Rhythm Tools

The following are very useful devices and instruments that will help you to define and create the appropriate rhythmic bed for your compositions.

Buy a Metronome
I would encourage you to buy a metronome, preferably a battery powered one that has multiple uses, metronome and tuner. Korg makes some great ones, as does Roland. The metronome will you to set specific tempos for your compositions. Some of these tempos are critical and though you could access the correct tempo by feel, your own receptivity, intuition, and trust are at play here. As you refine these and develop that trust, the metronome is the thing.

Drum/Rhythm Machine
These are very useful to have for creating specific patterns. They have authentic drum samples and a wide variety of programs that will allow you to try different feels for your song…and inspire you, as well. Reasonably priced, programmable units from Roland, Alesis, and Zoom will give you a big bang for your rhythmic buck.

Loops
An almost endless supply and variety of loops (repeating rhythmic patterns with or with out other key based pitched accompaniment) are available for very little. Amassing them allows you to create any rhythmic character you desire. Obviously, no experience as a drummer is necessary. You need a computer based sample player, usually, to play and manipulate your loops. Programs like Ableton Live, Sony Acid, and propellorheads reason are some that are rich in features and highly recommended. Your loops can be downloaded into your MP3 player and, with speakers, you can use them as self accompaniment in your healing locations.

Hardware Looper
Digitech and Roland make looping pedals that allow you to download preprogrammed loops or create your own in a layering process. These are very intuitive, flexible and fun. They do require amplification.

Drums and percussion
Honestly, anything that makes sound is useful in creating and performing healing music. Native or Latin Percussion drums, rattles, and percussion allow you to create rhythms over which you can sing,chant or do mantra. Remo and Toca are reasonably priced sources of a variety of instruments.

IPod or MP3 player
These are a very portable source of prerecorded rhythms and beats and backing tracks for your recording or live improvisation and performing. A set of decent speakers that allow a full range are very desirable.

Where to Shop
American Musical Supply; Sweetwater Music; Zzounds; Musician’s Friend; Drum Factory Direct; The Drum People; and your local music store. The internet locations often have deals and no state tax and free shipping plus a variety of interest free payment plans.