Practicing Music by Design

by Christopher Berg

Practicing Music by Design: Historic Virtuosi on Peak Performance explores pedagogical practices for achieving expert skill in performance. It is an account of the relationship between historic practices and modern research, examining the defining characteristics and applications of eight common components of practice from the perspectives of performing artists, master teachers, and scientists. The author presents research past and present designed to help musicians understand the abstract principles behind the concepts. After studying Practicing Music by Design , students and performers will be able to identify areas in their practice that prevent them from developing. The tenets articulated here are universal, not instrument-specific, borne of modern research and the methods of legendary virtuosi and teachers. Those figures discussed include: Practicing Music by Design forges old with new connections between research and practice, outlining the practice practices of some of the most virtuosic concert performers in history while ultimately addressing the question: How does all this work to make for better musicians and artists?

Genres: Music

208 pages, Hardcover

Published June 27, 2019

Reviews

[Thomas Creek · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic book. I had the fortune of studying under Christopher Berg while at the University of South Carolina and learned a great deal. Reading his book allowed me an opportunity to revisit many of the important concepts that he continually discussed in lessons regarding practice. Furthermore, I was also able to use the information in this book to reflect and improve upon my teaching. If you are a performing artist, teacher of performing artists, or both you will gain some great insights by reading this book.

[PurpleCroccus · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very informative. A very good analysis of pianistic development from many different angles. Will recommend to any serious piano learners.