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 the actual practicing at the keyboard, they are invaluable mental rehearsal devices.