A Research on Improving the Rhythmic Sense of Electric Bass Guitar Performers: Micro-Timing Control with Metronome Exercises

Abstract

In this study, micro-timing differences and nuances of groove perception in electric bass guitar performances were analysed. Groove, defined as the feeling emanating from a rhythm, was analysed to distinguish the contribution of micro-timing to this emotion. Electric bass guitar performances generated by metronome exercises were recorded to determine the complex relationship between micro-timing and groove. The exercises, inspired by Mark Kelso's metronome approach, aim to enable musicians to control the rhythm at the micro-rhythmic level by using rhythmic subdivisions. The findings represent an important step in understanding the role of micro-timing in musical experience and the creation of cult electric bass guitar performances.