ARTIST FEATURE: We are joined this week by pianist, composer and a survivor of complex congenital heart defect. This multi Billboard No. 1 charting artist coined the term Peaceful Piano to listeners world-wide. Meet Paul Cardall and see what he has to say about rhythm:

1) Why is rhythm important?

Rhythm is the heartbeat of music. Ironically, I was born with only half a heart and experienced irregular heart rhythm until receiving a heart transplant over a decade ago. As a self-taught pianist, years ago, when I started out composing my music I also didn’t have perfect rhythm… Unfortunately, a cardiologist cannot perform cardioversion on a pianist. You can, however, prescribe a metronome.

2) How often do you practice with a metronome?

As an improvisational pianist I rely on a metronome in the recording studio in my in-ears particularly so an arranger can be more efficient in writing the score additional instruments.

3) Why is it important to practice with a metronome?

Practice makes perfect. Keeping rhythm is not always easy, which is why your metronome ads such value to the process of perfecting performance. Even though I utilize a lot of ritardando in my pieces, the metronome helps me stay consistent and predictable when performing with other players.

4) Can you name one thing that you like about the metronome on metronomeonline.com?

Who wants to carry around a inch by 4 inch-square base pendulum? This is brilliant and enables players to be more efficient on the go.