A metronome is a device that produces audible clicks or other signals at a steady, user-set tempo, usually measured in beats per minute, used by musicians, dancers and athletes to keep steady time. The Andalusian polymath Abbas ibn Firnas is credited with an early version of the device around the 9th century, and the German inventor Johann Maelzel patented the modern mechanical wind-up metronome, built around a swinging weighted pendulum, on December 5, 1815, describing it as an instrument for the improvement of musical performance. Maelzel's design became the standard reference for tempo in written music, with composers marking a piece's intended speed in metronome beats per minute, and electronic and software metronomes have since supplemented the original mechanical clockwork form.
Facts
Patent or First-Use Date SignificanceMusicians often practise with metronomes to develop and maintain a sense of timing and tempo. 1 Sources
1. Metronome (Wikipedia)
Wikipedia contributors, Wikimedia FoundationHistory and types section, patent sentence
In 1815, the German inventor Johann Maelzel patented a mechanical, wind-up metronome as a tool for musicians
Quoted patent specification
Specification of the Patent granted to John Maelzel, which he denominates a Metronome or Musical Time-keeper. Dated December 5, 1815.
Pacing tool section
Musicians often practise with metronomes to develop and maintain a sense of timing and tempo.
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