Repetition Technique
Repetition technique is one of the most popular and effective ways to memorize music sheets. You need to play the same piece of music over and over again, until the sequence of notes and the melody become permanent in your memory. A musician who practices this technique listens to the music, plays or sings it from time to time, and gradually internalizes the piece until he no longer needs to rely on the sheet music. This technique can be combined with other methods, such as playing from memory without looking at the music sheet.
Chunking Technique
Chunking is a method of memorizing music sheets in small pieces or sections, and then putting them together. Break down the composition into manageable sections, quavers, phrases, or whatever suits the music, and practice each section till you can confidently play it on its own. Then, once you’ve mastered the sections individually, gradually try to play them together until you can play the entire piece by memory. This technique is beneficial for big musical compositions that might seem overwhelming at first glance.
Visualization Technique
The Visualization technique involves picturing a score and analyzing it in your mind, creating a mental image of the staff lines, notes, and symbols that make up the music. This technique involves the ability to imagine the physical act of playing an instrument and playing the notes in your head. This approach duplicates the rehearsal that you would ordinarily engage in when you play or sing a piece. So, visualization technique works best when you are already familiar with the piece of music you are trying to memorize.
Association Technique
Association technique relies on linking a score with a rich memory, such as memorizing the composition by associating it with other familiar tunes, stories, places, or even objects that you know well. For instance, if the melody has a resemblance to a nursery rhyme, use it as an anchor to keep you in tune while playing. Alternatively, you could associate elements of the music with humor, emotional scenes, or personal events thus increasing your memory retention.
Recording Technique
The recording technique is a perfect solution for musicians who find it hard to play their music while simultaneously memorizing it. Record yourself playing the piece of music and listen to the recordings on repeat. This method allows you to become familiar with the composition and internalize it over time. Also, it’s an excellent way of assessing your playing and identifying areas that need improvement. Furthermore, it allows you to observe how different musicians play the same piece. This, in turn, gives you the ability to develop your unique style by combining different interpretations.
