Practicing for a Performance

There are several ways that you can practice for a performance, and I guess the easiest way is to break it down into three steps or stages.

Stage 1: Initial Engagement

• Choosing a Piece:

  • Look at it for the first time and examine the whole structure.
  • Listen to a recording or view a performance of it.

• Methodical Review:

  • Go through the piece, focusing on fingering.
  • Note which passages are challenging.

• Break It Down:

  • Examine the piece by looking at the left hand, right hand, and the entire structure.

Stage 2: Detailed Technical Work

When you get to the real nitty-gritty work, keep these points in mind:

• Self-Teaching:

  • Remember, you are the best teacher for yourself.
  • Identify problems like a doctor would, and find solutions.

• Block Random Practice:

  • Follow the saying "less is more."
  • Focus on small snippets (e.g., two bars) for 2 minutes to target specific issues.

• Techniques for Improvement:

  • Slow Practice:

    • It's not just about slowing down; it's about your brain registering what's happening.
    • For example, when practicing Bach's "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring," slow it down and focus on finger placement, hand position, and harmonies.

  • Reverse Techniques:

    • Try playing staccato where legato is required to enhance finger agility and flow.

• Posture Awareness:

  • Maintain good posture; avoid raising shoulders or curling towards the piano.
  • Be aware of unnecessary tension in your body which can hinder fast or loud playing.

Stage 3: Performance Practice

• Integration:

  • By this point, it feels like the piece is all in your fingers.

• Practice Performing:

  • Use your pets, neighbors, family, or an imaginary audience for practice.
  • A mobile phone or recording device can serve as a good substitute audience. Record, listen back, and assess your performance for clarity and pacing.

• Self-Awareness During Performance:

  • Just like in driving, anticipate trouble areas (e.g., "black spots" of traffic).
  • Avoiding a passage isn't the goal; instead, anticipate it and work on it.

Conclusion: The Why Behind Your Practice

Always revisit why you chose that piece:

• Musical Engagement:

  • You should love the sound and mood of the piece.

• Concentration:

  • Avoid going through the motions; keep your brain engaged.

Final Advice

• Practice in smaller increments but more often.
• Enjoy the process of your practice!