Memorization techniques for selected piano works between 1911 and 1953: case studies through recorded performances and exegesis

Abstract

The primary aims of this MPhil performance based research have been to identify the memorization problems presented by selected piano works between 1911 and 1953; to develop practice strategies to overcome these problems; and to test the solutions through live/recorded performances. This study is significant because memorization techniques for post-tonal and non-tonal piano music have not been researched in depth, and this topic is rarely addressed from the perspective of a professional pianist. This exegesis identifies the most salient problems encountered when trying to memorize the selected repertoire, and presents and discusses solutions and practice strategies to overcome them. Two live DVD recordings of the selected repertoire are included, and the success of the strategies is evaluated by a critical assessment of the recorded performances.