[Lucas de Wit]

Hi Hi everyone,

I wanted to propose a new feature for MobileSheets that I believe would be incredibly useful for musicians, especially those who play in bands or ensembles: a voice count-in for the metronome.

Here’s the idea: before the metronome starts, a voice would count in (e.g., “1, 2, 3, 4”) at the tempo of the song. This feature would help musicians sync up before starting a piece, making it easier for the band or group to start together without the need for pre-recorded tracks or external apps.

As a guitarist and drummer, I often cue the metronome for my band. Having a clear, audible count-in directly within MobileSheets would be a game-changer for rehearsals and live performances. It ensures everyone knows exactly where the song starts, even if they’re not looking at the sheet music or click track right away.

I believe this feature could benefit:

• Band leaders and conductors: To help everyone start on the same beat.
• Rehearsal groups: For clear synchronization during practice.
• Solo musicians: To align their timing when practicing pieces.

If you think this feature would help you too, please comment below or add your support. The more feedback we provide, the higher the likelihood that this feature becomes a priority for development.

Let’s show Mike how valuable this addition could be for the community!

Thanks for your input,
Lucas

[GraemeJ]

I see some people might find this helpful, but not for me, I don't think it would be that useful.  In my case, I see the metronome flash the bpm (I don't even have the accent turned on).  I can establish the tempo and count the band in myself.

[bensw]

Good idea, but what about if the song has a different size, like 3/4?

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[GraemeJ]

Good idea, but what about if the song has a different size, like 3/4?

Doesn't matter.  The metronome just flashes at the right tempo, no matter what the time signature is.  It's up to me to decide when to start the count in.

[Geoff Bacon]

Like Graeme, I use the flashing metronome and doubt that I would use an automatic count in

If implemented, one would probably want to have a spoken count in and an option to not sound the metronome after the count in i.e just flash the metronome for the rest of the song

Also, if an automatic count in is "missed" for some reason, how does it get restarted for another try?
Probably just easiest as it is.

Geoff

[e.k.]

........déjà vu.....


...had last week a big discussion about count-in. This is the most underestimated part of music (my opinion).
And I differentiate between count-in (= get the mood/groove) and metronom (= time keeper).
Of course, count-in should be in the right tempo. 

In case I use the metronom, I start it, get in the mood/groove - may take several(!) bars (at rehearsals),
count-in using sticks or voice (number or just vowels) with the right accents.

Making music = making mood/groove! 

There is a big difference, if accents in a 4/4 are 1.3. or .2.4, or something else like african/cuban/latin music
(e.g. 2-bar rhythms; son or rumba claves), 3/4, 6/8, 12/8,.........

I don´t know any metronom-app, which can provide right accents. If there is any, please let me know.

My summary:
Count-in (vocal or percussive) with right accents should be done always by musicians.
To get the band/group in the right mood/groove is job of drums/percussion or leader.
If you´re alone, it´s your job.


e.k.