Hi,

I recently put up a discussion on the MBH forum about why one would use backing tracks instead of playing/practicing along with songs that don't have a harmonica part (I'm a harp player). My point was that playing along with t-Bone Walker (or whoever) is more fun so I practice/play longer, and I learn new songs. I don't put the backing tracks that Rick and Jerry put up in this class because they are really just the song that Jerry has taught without the harp part.  Anyway, one of the better answers I got talked about using backing tracks and playing along with songs was they can be complimentary tools, pointing out that the backing tracks give one more freedom to improvise.  Along with this advice, the poster made the point that using a metronome is a good idea.  My question is: when learning a blues song that most likely does not have sheet music how do you determine time signaures and BPM other than guessing?

Thanks,

Rich