I think that microbreaks and interleaved practice are closely related. Interleaved practice actually provides a break between one topic and another, so you learn both more efficiently.
Over time, I have actually adopted all of your suggestions in this video. I found that trying to practice beyond the capacity of my brain isn't effective. I break up my practice into short sessions that can range from ten minutes to an hour. For me, beyond an hour my effectiveness drops off quite sharply. I get a sensation in my head that I'm no longer staying in the moment and focusing. It is time to go sit in my comfortable chair and meditate for 20 - 40 minutes. Also, while practicing, I interleave practice segments between a classical piece, then some jazz improvisation, then some scales, etc. Sometimes, I'll stop "practicing" and just play some pieces for relaxation and enjoyment. The mental process is very different.
The first point is the "MADD" block to progress - Musical attention deficit disorder (MADD). The internet and membership with on-line courses/camps has greatly escalated this distraction problem. I am very guilty of "hopping" to review scales, repertoire, chords, etc that I have forgotten or want to polish. Then the more important critical topics get pushed aside. Thank you for this reminder to FOCUS FOCUS FOCUS.
Excellent video Mark! I’ve been doing a lot of reading on research about learning including completing a MOOC called Learning How to Learn and everything you mention is evidence-based.
Thanks, Chris! Is that the Barbara Oakley course you're talking about? I've heard great things about it and would like to go through it myself if I can find the time...
@@PlayInTheZone Yes it is the Barbara Oakley course. It’s available on Coursera and it’s free. I was able to get through it in two weeks while working full time. Make it Stick by Brown et al. Is an excellent read if you’re not familiar with it.
Another concept came to mind because of my (and Mark's) physics background - vector summation. Practice topic "arrows" all have to be aligned generally in a forward direction to reach the destination goal efficiently. Any "side" force vectors cause off-track motion and the journey time is greatly extended. Newton's laws apply to music practice !
What does research on practice show r/t conscious heavy close attention to a technique vs. mindless attention with just muscle memory of a technique (given minute by minute comparison).
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I think that microbreaks and interleaved practice are closely related. Interleaved practice actually provides a break between one topic and another, so you learn both more efficiently.
Over time, I have actually adopted all of your suggestions in this video. I found that trying to practice beyond the capacity of my brain isn't effective. I break up my practice into short sessions that can range from ten minutes to an hour. For me, beyond an hour my effectiveness drops off quite sharply. I get a sensation in my head that I'm no longer staying in the moment and focusing. It is time to go sit in my comfortable chair and meditate for 20 - 40 minutes. Also, while practicing, I interleave practice segments between a classical piece, then some jazz improvisation, then some scales, etc. Sometimes, I'll stop "practicing" and just play some pieces for relaxation and enjoyment. The mental process is very different.
Awesome stuff, Rene! Sounds like you're doing a great job.
As you say, Mark, it's about focussing one's mindset on the right areas in the musical journey
What a good summary of your techniques from your courses, emails, and videos plus new information. Once again you give valuable tips. Thank you!
Interesting stuff! I already take breaks, but am keen to try some your other suggestions. The 10 second breaks I never would've thought of!
The first point is the "MADD" block to progress - Musical attention deficit disorder (MADD). The internet and membership with on-line courses/camps has greatly escalated this distraction problem. I am very guilty of "hopping" to review scales, repertoire, chords, etc that I have forgotten or want to polish. Then the more important critical topics get pushed aside. Thank you for this reminder to FOCUS FOCUS FOCUS.
You're welcome, Jerry. It's as much of a reminder to myself as to anyone else. I'm certainly not immune from this!
I can confirm that this approach is working very well for me too.
Good to hear that. Glad it was helpful.
Excellent video Mark! I’ve been doing a lot of reading on research about learning including completing a MOOC called Learning How to Learn and everything you mention is evidence-based.
Thanks, Chris! Is that the Barbara Oakley course you're talking about? I've heard great things about it and would like to go through it myself if I can find the time...
@@PlayInTheZone Yes it is the Barbara Oakley course. It’s available on Coursera and it’s free. I was able to get through it in two weeks while working full time. Make it Stick by Brown et al. Is an excellent read if you’re not familiar with it.
I finally started to listen to your video s..thanks for these wonderful tips❤
Brilliant, brilliant summary.
Thanks, Neil. So glad you enjoyed it.
Another concept came to mind because of my (and Mark's) physics background - vector summation. Practice topic "arrows" all have to be aligned generally in a forward direction to reach the destination goal efficiently. Any "side" force vectors cause off-track motion and the journey time is greatly extended. Newton's laws apply to music practice !
Great vid!!
Most helpful suggestions Mark. In lockdown now(NZ) so ideal time to re organise both my mind and my music room. Thanks!
You're very welcome. And good work for taking a look at an unwelcome situation (lockdown) and seeing what positives you can find in it.
You made me giggle, “ the next think that you need to do to make faster progress, is to LIKE this video” 👍 OK ☺️
😁 And thanks!
Brilliant! Thanks so much for these videos… the tools approach to practice really helps keep practice interesting and progressive
You're very welcome! As you say, it's so important to keep practice interesting - much easier than trying to force yourself to do it.
Thank you for sharing your knowledge Mark. Excellent explanation 🙏🏾
My pleasure, Ludwig! Glad it was helpful.
What does research on practice show r/t conscious heavy close attention to a technique vs. mindless attention with just muscle memory of a technique (given minute by minute comparison).
great
How important is it to know all the scales by heart ?
I'm afraid the only sensible answer to that is "It depends". Everyone's aiming at different goals so there's no right answer.
@@PlayInTheZone If you want to play by ear ? Thanks for the reply.