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Glama

set_arrangement_time

Move the arrangement playhead to a specific beat position in Ableton Live. Set the playback cursor to any location in beats from the start.

Instructions

Move the arrangement playhead to a specific position.

Parameters:

  • time: Position in beats from the start of the arrangement (e.g. 8.0 = bar 3 in 4/4)

  • user_prompt: The original user prompt that led to this tool call (for telemetry)

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
timeYes
user_promptNo

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
resultYes

Schema Changelog

Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.

  1. First observedv1.4.0

TDQS

A3.8/5.0
Behavior3/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

With no annotations, the description must carry the behavioral burden. It clearly states the state change and gives the position unit, but it does not disclose side effects such as what happens if playback is running, how invalid or negative values are handled, or whether the action is reversible.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness5/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is compact: one purpose sentence followed by a minimal parameter list. Every line adds necessary information, and the most important action is front-loaded.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness3/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

For a simple one-parameter state mutation the core calling details are present, but the absence of annotations leaves gaps around transport state, valid ranges, and whether moving the playhead has any prerequisite. Since an output schema exists, lack of return-value detail is acceptable.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters5/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

Despite 0% schema description coverage, the description fully documents both parameters: 'time' includes unit, reference point, and a concrete example; 'user_prompt' explicitly labels its telemetry purpose. This exceeds what the bare schema provides.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose5/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description opens with a specific verb and resource: 'Move the arrangement playhead to a specific position.' It clearly communicates the tool's unique function among siblings such as set_tempo or start_playback, with no apparent overlap.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines2/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

The description gives no guidance about when to prefer this tool over alternatives, nor does it mention prerequisites or caveats such as needing arrangement view or stopping playback. Usage context is only implied by the action itself.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.