How do you memorize music?
How do you memorize music?
56 replies
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One of the first things I do when learning a new piece is to analyze the structure, and harmony of the work. I call this “kitchen table “ practicing. As I am learning the notes, dynamics, articulations, etc., I am reinforcing how the piece is put together, and memorizing the structure from the very beginning. I also like to memorize sections as I go in this same process. Once I have a good understanding of the structure, it makes it far easier to memorize small sections. I also test my memory of these sections at various tempos. I use this approach with my students, as well, and it has been very successful
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A couple of years ago, I learned from an online video that it was absolutely necessary to group notes before fingering.
The reason was to ensure good arm and hand movements and structure the musical information. In patterns, when the hand is in the correct position, it's easier moving the fingers.
What it wasn't mentioned is that this "choreography" helps with learning and remembering music because the information about where to place the hands is easier to learn than the actual finger movements. Kind of higher level than fingers.
How many times have I realized I couldn't remember what was next! but my hands were on the right places, and then I remembered what I had to play!
Once i noticed this it made me easier learning pieces.
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Just an interesting point. I've always had trouble memorising except when doing exams. (all the hard work). Not long ago I received my genetic tendencies back from Ancestry (a genealogy site). They continually add new features. This last one showed that I had a strong leaning towards music and art but had a poor result for musical memory. So now at least I know that I need to work harder. I also use the chord structure method. Really like the idea of printing and cutting up by line. Seems a good way to help with continuing with general mistakes as well. A lot of good ideas. Thank you all.