4/20/2011

Why muscle memory does not work

As musicians, we spend a lot of time training our body to play the right notes, and to play them with the right sound.

But when we use our body the way we normally do in a different hall or on a different instrument, it doesn't create the same result as it usually does.

It's only when we use our ear the way we typically do, that it makes our body change what it needs to change in order to get the same results as it usually gets. 



Picture from http://www.fast-autos.net/diecast-cars-models/QUEEN-MARY-SHIPBOARD-WOOD-CARVING-MUSICIANS-HANDS_190475431543.html

1 comment:

  1. I think this is an interesting point. Although, I am a firm believer that muscle memory is essential for younger inexperienced performers (who often are overcome with nerves and have no choice but to resort back to what "feels right"). At higher levels of playing where the performer is more experienced, I think your assertion is correct.

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