Piano Masterclass on Practising Correctly: Part 1

Summary

In this video, Graham Fitch demonstrates effective practice techniques to improve learning and performance. He starts with a simple minuet by Bach, explaining how to break down music into manageable units, such as one bar or one note at a time, and gradually expanding to larger segments. Fitch also introduces a 'zigzag practice' method, where hands alternate playing sections of the music, enhancing motor control and memorization. These strategies, while simple, are powerful for both beginners and advanced players, strengthening music mastery and improving overall performance.

Takeaways

• 😀 Practice can be broken down into smaller units, such as one bar and one note, for effective learning.
• 🎶 This approach works for all levels, from beginners to advanced pianists, and can be applied to complex pieces like Rachmaninoff concertos.
• ⏱️ Counting the remainder of a bar before moving on to the next helps build precision and strengthens your musical ability.
• 🎵 Taking breaks after each bar allows you to focus on learning one section deeply before moving forward.
• 🔄 It’s important to repeat sections in multiple ways, such as starting after the bar or leaving extra time to think, for improved retention.
• 🎹 As you progress, you can extend the units to two bars and eventually four bars at a time for a more advanced approach.
• 💡 Practicing isolated sections in the middle of phrases builds control and accuracy, especially when you can play them perfectly from memory.
• 🔁 Zigzag practice involves alternating between the hands, playing part of the right hand and then the left, without stopping.
• 🧠 Zigzag practice strengthens motor control and deepens your knowledge of a piece by forcing you to pay attention to both hands.
• 💪 Consistently applying these methods ensures you develop a deeper understanding of your music and improve your overall performance.

Q & A

What is the main concept of the video demonstration?

The main concept is about how we learn when we practice music, specifically using techniques to strengthen our understanding and motor control when learning pieces. Graham Fitch demonstrates two main methods: breaking the music into smaller sections (one-bar, two-bar, etc.) and alternating hands in a zigzag pattern.

What is the significance of dividing the music into smaller sections during practice?

Dividing music into smaller sections, such as one-bar units, helps strengthen the links in our musical memory and motor skills. By focusing on one note or bar at a time, musicians can isolate difficult sections and practice them until they are perfect, which makes learning more efficient.

How does the 'one-bar unit' practice method work?

In the 'one-bar unit' method, a musician plays one bar of music and stops just after the bar line. They then count the remainder of the bar before continuing to the next bar. This process isolates specific parts of the music to focus on, which helps reinforce muscle memory and familiarity with the piece.

What is the purpose of counting before moving to the next bar in the one-bar unit method?

The purpose of counting before moving to the next bar is to give the musician time to think and process the music. This pause helps reinforce memory and motor control, allowing the musician to focus on the notes and timing before proceeding further.

Why is it recommended to practice starting after the bar line rather than at the end of the bar?

It is recommended to start after the bar line because stopping at the last note of the bar doesn't lead to a clear transition. By going over the bar line and starting on the note you previously stopped on, the musician can better connect the sections and create a more fluid practice.

How does the zigzag practice method work, and what are its benefits?

The zigzag practice method involves playing part of the right hand, then switching to the left hand and continuing without stopping. The musician alternates between hands, first right-left, then left-right. This method helps to interrupt the flow of one hand while continuing the other, strengthening motor control and knowledge of the piece.

What is the advantage of alternating between hands in the zigzag method?

Alternating between hands in the zigzag method helps the musician become more adaptable and strengthens their control over each hand individually. By interrupting the flow of one hand and continuing with the other, it enhances motor coordination and helps solidify the memory of the piece.

How does the zigzag practice method apply to different levels of musicians?

The zigzag practice method can be applied to musicians of all levels, from beginners to advanced. It is beneficial for improving motor control and memory, and can be used for any piece of music, whether it's a simple minuet or a complex work like a Rachmaninoff concerto.

What is the ultimate goal of using these practice methods?

The ultimate goal is to deeply internalize the music so that a musician can play it confidently and accurately, from memory. These methods help reinforce muscle memory, improve motor control, and strengthen the overall understanding of the piece, making it easier to perform without relying on the score.

Can these techniques be applied to pieces of varying difficulty levels?

Yes, both the one-bar unit method and the zigzag practice method can be applied to pieces of any difficulty level. They are flexible and can be adapted to simple beginner pieces or complex works, helping musicians at all levels to improve their technique and understanding of the music.