Who is this challenge for?

If you don’t think that you can successfully play piano music from memory, this challenge is for you!

What do I need to do?You will use the resources inside this month’s Curiosity Box to help you successfully memorise ONE Grade 1 piece.

Which Grade 1 pieces can I choose from?

Inside the video section of the March 2020 Curiosity Box, you will find analysis videos for the following THREE pieces:ABRSM - The Egyptian Level LCM - Andante Trinity - Jodler

Can I choose my own piece?

YES! You are, of course, very welcome to choose your own piece and do your own analysis. However, if you’re a ‘novice’ memoriser then we strongly recommend that you begin with an Elementary Level piece of repertoire.

Rote repertoire, because it’s highly patterned, is also particularly well-suited to this memorisation challenge. For rote repertoire inspiration, explore the September 2019 Curiosity Box.

If you’re an ‘improvising’ or a ‘seasoned’ memoriser, we invite you to join us too. Just choose a piece of an appropriate level and get going!

What does this challenge look like, step-by-step?

Step 1

Watch the introduction video and the 3 analysis videos.

Step 2

Choose your piece (and make sure you have an original copy of the score).

Step 3

Decide what you’re going to do to celebrate when you complete this challenge at the end of March 2020! Write it down.

Step 4

Analyse the patterns in the music and create memorisation ‘hooks’ away from the piano, doing a little bit of work every day. Aim to be able to re-write the score away from the piano.

When you get ‘stuck’ - hop into the Curiosity Lounge to ask for ideas that will help you to move forward positively. (And if you do something that really helps you overcome a challenge, please share it as it might help a fellow-member!)

Step 5

When you can perform your chosen piece from memory, make a video recording to share with fellow-members inside the Curiosity Lounge (Facebook group).

Step 6

This is really important: celebrate! Celebrate your success!