Megabytes

On Sunday, I’ll be marching in a parade, playing two different songs. Because it is more fun to march when you don’t have to stare at music, I memorized both pieces. Here’s how I went about it.
First, I played the songs on my instrument over and over so they became familiar to my ear. Then, I listened to recordings of both pieces to hear how my part fit in with the rest of the band. Finally, the actual memorizing. Thanks to my friend Jules for this tip: Memorize backwards!
Start with the last measure. Play it while reading the music. Play it without reading the music. When you have successfully played that measure, add a measure and repeat the process.
I modified her suggestion slightly by taking the last phrase, then the last two phrases, then the last three phrases. This way I was learning the piece in sections and always reinforcing what I already learned by playing through to the end with each new addition of measures.
If you’re in downtown Portland on Sunday, June 17, look for the parade. I’ll be marching with the Rose City Gay Freedom Band in the Portland Gay Pride March. Pictured above is me in our uniform of two years ago. This year we have a new look!