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One of the best practice techniques to learn a piece faster and easier is to count out loud. Counting helps a number of different ways.
Aids Analyzing Memory. Please notice the title of the article is not “Counting To Myself In My Head.” Counting out loud forces the brain to be involved, not just what “sounds right” (auditory memory) or “felt OK” (motor memory). Remember analyzing memory is the best kind of memory that will stay with you longer. When you can count your piece out loud, you have a greater understanding of its rhythm.
Learning It Right The First Time. Counting out loud helps you learn a section correctly the first time, and we all know how difficult it is to un-do a wrong rhythm.
Helps Co-ordindate Your Hands. When you count out loud, your hands can see what notes happen at the same time.
Write In The Counting. It is recommended that you write in the counting on your music (in pencil) and check that it is correct with your teacher. It is easier to learn and read this way.
Start Counting Hands Separately. You have to be able to count a piece hands separately up-tempo before doing it hands together. If you can’t do it Hands Separately, how could you do it Hands Together?
Count And Play Slowly At First. If you can’t count an easier rhythm, how will you be able to count a harder one in a harder piece? Make sure you go slow enough that you can count along with it, and gradually you will be able to count faster. The more you do it, the better you get.
Article Copyright © 2001 by Paul Nazzaro |
