Before actually playing a piece of music, you need to learn the notes.
This is the first and most important thing. Only fully automated movements and skills will allow you to play music.
Don’t think about what dynamics should be in this or that area. Don’t pay attention to the strumming. Don’t think about character.
The first thing you need to do is simply learn the notes.
Learn to such an extent that the movements “run” ahead of the brain.
Reach a state where you don’t have to think about where to move your hand or how to place a chord, where you need to stretch, and where you need to play narrowly. All that is unnecessary. Don’t clutter your head at this stage. Just pick and play the notes. Only them.
This is done simply: by repeating the same part over and over again. At a slow tempo.
- Take the melodic line and break it down into logical sections.
- Then repeat these sections in simple (melody only), complex (melody and accompaniment), and polyphonic (ma + bass).
- Combine the learned sections.
Suppose we need to learn a simple melody consisting of three logical sections. The first section will be played at least 100 times, then we can move on to the second section, which will also be repeated 100 times. Next, combine the two sections and play them 100 times (you can even count out loud). Add a third section. Play it 100 times. Then assemble the entire melody and play it until it’s memorized.
We’re aiming for an effect where you can calmly watch TV or listen to the radio, while your fingers naturally move along the strings.
In this way, we’re creating a foundation upon which to learn and perform future pieces.
Remember how in school we were forced to play scales or etudes built on similar arpeggios? That’s what working on automatism is all about.
You can only play a musical instrument when you’re in sync with it, not constantly glancing at the sheet music or trying to remember where to place your finger next.
For beginners, the ideal thing would be to learn ONE chord, but in such a way that it can be played, not strummed.
Many musicians, for some reason, decide to learn a few chords and then sing songs to their own accompaniment. Without having mastered a single chord, they want to play and sing a song. Although an experienced musician understands that these are TWO SKILLS that must be studied separately, gradually combining them.
When you’re just starting to learn chords or notes, learn one, and then find a piece of music that builds on what you’ve learned. Or, conversely, find a song with a minimum of chords and play them until they become automatic.
The first lesson on working on a piece will always begin with the teacher saying:
Learn the notes first!
