Judy Rowan wanted to know how often I use my metronome. This varies a lot, but on occasion, I have used my metronome 210 times a second.
She also wants to know how to use a metronome. One effective way is to tie the metronome at the end to a string. By changing the length of the string, you can vary the rate at which the metronome swings back and forth. Another good way is to attach the metronome to a slinky,and supend it from the ceiling. Then you can judge the tempo by the rate at which the metronome moves up and down. You can change the tempo by shortening the spring or by adding more metronomes. For really fast tempi, it helps to have a lot of metronomes. You line them up in a row, then knock over the metronome at the end, starting a chain reaction. You can vary the tempo by changing the spacing. If you have a really resonant metronome, you can put it in the sink. Then you open the faucet ever so slightly, so that drops of water fall and strike the metronome. For practicing those modern pieces, with their irregular tempi, I like to put the metronome in the clothes dryer. When the dryer spins (I prefer the setting for "delicate fabrics") you can adjust your playing to the clunking sound the metronome makes as it tumbles inside. If you choose the wrong setting for your dryer, however, it may spin so fast that the centrifugal force will prevent the metronome from falling inside.
With utmost sincerity,
The Cabbage