Method of Sevens

[Bob]

Seven repetitions.  Bernhard's method.  Whatever you want to call it.

Is it just that you take something "doable" for you, slightly challenging but nearly within your grasp, and then repeat it seven times?

One of the advantages being that you don't spend too much time on any one section.  If it's difficult, it's split into pieces anyway.

[jlh]

Seven times is so much better than the six time method!!

I also tried the eight time method and was not 100% in love with the results...

 

[counterpoint]

The week has 7 days - so if you practise every day... 

[pianistimo]

i remember reading that too, and thinking 'does one size fit all?'  i mean, my teacher can look at something and have it memorized in 2 tries.  what makes him more able to memorize more in one sitting.  what does he take in with his eyes?  does he scan the page and have photographic memory.  does he take chord progressions? is it ia blend of several things.  did he practice memory techniques as a baby to adulthood? 

one thing i do remember from lessons is that he expected a lot more things done at one time.  i'm patting myhead and rubbing my stomach and then he says blink your eyes three times, open your mouth, silently say 'i can do this, and then - the last thing he'd ask would completely cause the deck of cards to fall down.  frankly, it could make one lose some marbles.  but, i found it challenging to attempt at home instead of in front of him.  you know - you get a critique of six things you need to suddenly change and taking in three is just about it.  but, gradually you add more and then you start thinking 'i'm soo smart.'

repetitions for memory?  i think it's a process where you get better and better at it.  hopefully you're still not doing seven in seven years.

[theodore]

Pianistimo: Regarding memorization of pieces:

One way in which I memorize pieces is to pencil in harmonic theory symbols of my own invention at various harmonic changes (chordal or arpeggiated or scalewise). I use some of the following symbols at the point of the change: for instance  using   the  tone  G

g  = g minor  G = G major  g0 =  diminished 

G+  =  augmented  G7 = seventh chord   etc

also   ch   =  chromatic    and    wt   =  whole tone

With these penciled in scribblings,  I barely glance at the actual notes and my range of vision increases to 5 or 6 measures or more.  I am constantly inventing these memory devices and they help re-enforce  speedy memorization.

[pianistimo]

that is very good, theodore.  might try this next time - although relating music to concrete literary ideas is working for me, too.  words or names that start with the same letters - although this leaves out major/minor/aug/dim ideas.  i can hear what is supposed to come in my head though - and match notes if necessary.  this is when i have enough time to practice as long as it takes to get it all in my head.  perhaps this will also come in handy as time goes on.  you practice enough - you know basically where all the notes are.