The present workshop on effective memorization strategies based on mental practice illustrates techniques by which someone intending to practice creates a mental representation of a preconceived idea or action to enhance performance. Through increased focus and concentration, pianists will learn how to study portions of a score in their minds without spending considerable time at the piano.

Among the techniques illustrated in this workshop are:

• Motor imagery (visualizing the feeling of moving the fingers).
• Organizing groupings found in the text (also through formal, melodic, and rhythmic analysis).
• Singing and feeling intervallic relationships.
• Scene memory (rapid eye movements to identify the next position on the key).
• Switches (slight changes of patterns often resulting in memory slips).

These tools are helpful, and while they cannot replace actual keyboard practice, they are invaluable mental rehearsal devices.