How to change tempo in Ableton Live?

Learn how to set and adjust the project tempo (BPM) in Ableton Live.

Getting Started · beginner level

Steps

  1. Set Tempo in the Control Bar

    The tempo field is in the top-left area of the Control Bar, displayed in BPM. Click on the number and type a new value, or click and drag up/down to adjust it.

  2. Tap Tempo

    Click the Tap button next to the tempo field repeatedly at the desired speed. Ableton will calculate the BPM from your taps. You can also assign a MIDI controller or key to the Tap Tempo function.

  3. Automate Tempo Changes

    To change tempo mid-song, show automation on the Master track and select Song Tempo from the dropdown. Draw in tempo changes using breakpoints on the automation lane.

More Ableton Live tutorials