The Best Practice Method According to Science: Interleaved Practice

Have you ever found that despite hours of practice, your progress seems to plateau? What if the key to more effective learning isn't practicing longer, but practicing differently? Today we're exploring interleaved practice, a scientifically backed method that can revolutionize your approach to learning music.

Traditional practice often involves focusing on one piece or technique repeatedly before moving on to the next, a method known as blocked practice.

Interleaved practice on the other hand involves mixing different pieces or skills within a single session. This approach forces your brain to constantly retrieve and apply different strategies, enhancing learning and retention. Essentially, anything that keeps your mind engaged produces the most dramatic results in the work you do at the piano.

So, try mixing things up to make your practice more engaging.

Studies have shown that interleaved practice can lead to better long -term retention and transfer of skills compared to blocked practice. By continually switching tasks, you're training your brain to be more adaptable and resilient, which is crucial for live performances where unpredictability is a given.

Start by selecting a few different pieces or techniques to work on in a session. Rotate between them every 10 or 15 minutes or whenever you feel a decline in the productivity in your practice.

I remember listening to my wife practice for orchestral auditions. She would go through the list of music excerpts repeatedly and alternate with other practice techniques such as long tones, scales, and then back to the toughest excerpts time and time again, bringing fluency and solidity to her practicing. Initially it might feel more challenging, but over time you'll notice improved recall and adaptability. Remember, the goal is to make your practice sessions more dynamic and engaging. By incorporating interleaved practice into your routine, you're not just learning pieces, you're training your brain to be more flexible and responsive. This method might be the key to breaking through plateaus and achieving greater musical mastery in your playing. I hope you're enjoying these videos. Again, I'm Robert Estrin. This is LivingPianos.com, your online piano resource.

Find the original source of this video at this link: https://livingpianos.com/the-best-practice-method-according-to-science-interleaved-practice/

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