ARTIST FEATURE: A founding member of the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra and two-time Grammy Award winner, Latin jazz flutist Danilo Lozano joins us this week as our featured artist! Read what he has to say about rhythm and time in music!

1) Why is rhythm important?

For me, rhythm is the connecting underlying element of music. Rhythm allows the musicians to communicate on a visceral level which in turn is projected to a variety of listening audiences. Rhythm facilitates the sonic connection. Humans intuitively respond to rhythm regardless of the musical genre and style.

2) How do you practice your rhythm and sense of time?

This depends on the style of music I would be preparing for. I practice rhythm by perceiving rhythm as time-feel and how rhythms function in the context of playing with musicians. Playing a percussion instrument and transferring rhythmic ideas to the flute gives me the ability to get inside the time through rhythm. Using a metronome keeps in check and helps me with internalizing the intricacies of rhythm at different tempos.

3) What are your favorite rhythmic exercises?

As a flute player, I focus on coordinating my tongue and fingers by playing different rhythms at various tempos. Once I have my mind and body wired I test my rhythmic accuracy by not tonguing notes to see if my fingers hold true to the rhythms I have been working on. I think of my fingers as a percussionist or drummer would use their hands.

4) Can you name one thing that you like about the metronome on Metronome Online?

What I like best about the metronomeonline app is the practice tracking features. It allows me to keep track of my daily practice rhythm routines and facilitates how I progress with them over a period of time. It is very handy to have the app across devices and have the information there whenever you need it.

VIDEO: Check out Cuba L.A., led by Danilo, performing at the 57th Annual L.A. County Holiday Celebration!