2025 Virtual Retreat:
The Neuroscience of Practicing
May 24-25
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Saturday, May 24th
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What Musicians Can Learn About Practicing from Current Brain Research
10-11:30 am EST
The discoveries of neuroscience yield fascinating insight into practicing and teaching, providing us with the tools to become more efficient and effective, which in turn leads to enhanced performance ability, enjoyment, and confidence. Topics will include: how to eliminate “bad” habits, how to make things more reliable in performance, the role of sleep in learning, the power of mental practicing, how to use the metronome effectively, and the benefits of random practice.
75 min. presentation + 15 min. for questions
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Interactive Workshop: Interleaved Practice
1-3 pm EST
“But I could play it perfectly in the practice room!”
If this is a familiar feeling or statement, then it is time to attend this workshop.
Interleaved practice is a method of skill improvement that has been studied for more than 40 years in the realm of sports coaching, but it has only recently come to the attention of musicians. You will leave this workshop with practical ways of applying this knowledge to your musical preparation.
45 min. presentation + 1 hour of playing + 15 min. for questions
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Sunday, May 25th
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The Science of Memory
10-11:30 am EST
Performing from memory is something that many musicians find terrifying, whereas others seem to embrace this challenge with ease. Let’s look at what neuroscience can teach us about memory in general, strategies for memorization, and how you can improve your comfort with and mastery of performing from memory.
75 min. presentation + 15 min. for questions
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Anti-Masterclass
1-3 pm EST
This is not a presentation, but rather a masterclass on practicing. Instead of bringing polished pieces, we bring things that are causing struggles!
Dr. Gebrian will guide this anti-masterclass, drawing on previous topics from the retreat. Whether you are a participant or observer, you will leave with fresh insight and new ideas to apply immediately to your own practice and with your students.
15 min. overview of practice strategies + 80 min. masterclass + 20 min. for questions
“I believe that when we understand better how our brains work, we can learn music more effectively, which will make practicing much more enjoyable. As as a result, we will give more convincing, joyful, engaging performances that we feel good about.”
- Dr. Molly Gebrian in Learn Faster, Perform Better: A Musician’s Guide to the Neuroscience of Practicing