Ditto to what Lucky said.
Throughout the years, I've been successful using these exact same memorization techniques.

As an added comment: I find that when I'm memorizing something (lyrics, chord progression, etc), that if I work on this close to retiring for the night, that when I wake up, I have it far better memorized than by constant repetition. As Lucky said, there is something about the breaks between practicing which gives your conscious mind a rest, while allowing your subconscious time to process and cement the information in your memory. Ther've been many instances where I've unsuccessfully attempted to memorize a song late at night, but the next day, surprised to find I'm able to play the song perfectly without fail.

In addition, I do know that as you memorize more & more songs, that the memorization process time becomes a lot quicker. - Scott

[This message has been edited by Scottyee (edited 11-06-2010).]

And then there are those (like me) who cannot retain that information in full for various reasons(some medical), so I use charts, cheat cards, etc,....I have NO trouble interacting with the audience, as I do maintain a high degree of eye contact, even with the charts.

It can be done! I believe as always, that there is no wrong and right way, only "your way"...We each do whatever works for us.

Just because a player uses a chart makes them no less a muso, or entertainer.

Just my 2 cents

Dennis

I use charts for some songs, especially lyrics, but I keep my MPP out of sight, to the side. I learned that is much easier to learn to glance ahead at an entire phrase and force yourself to immediately reconnect with the audience.

Sure, it is better to memorize the whole thing, but this is better than keeping glued to the chart.

It's simply about repetition. Baptism by fire is the norm for me, as I attempt to do newer songs live that I've just not totally memorized. Sooner than later, you will remember them in order to stave off embarrassment.

I do use the PA800 screen for my lyrics 'cheat sheet', but always have the arrangement memorized completely.

The more jobs you play, like anything else, the more you will remember the songs by heart. It's really not that difficult.

I played a private party at a Doc's house last night and their 7 year old was playing classical on her piano by MEMORY

Repetition, Repetition, Repetition..

As soon as you think you know the song.


Repetition, Repetition, Repetition...

I suppose, given time, rote repetition playing the same notes repeatedly will yield results, I believe a far more effective & everlasting approach is to hear & understand what's going on musically while you're memorizing a tune.

This requires understanding the basic 'fundamentals of music, of which includes the ability to recognize (by ear) and play at will (on your keyboard), the basic chord progressions (I-V7-1; IV-V7-1; IIm-V7-I; I-VIm-IIm-V7-1; etc). Another important music skill to develop is note interval recognition & playing/singing them at will too. This includes the ability to instantly recognize/play all possible melodic 'note intervals' (both ascending, descending) and being able to recognize (by ear) & play basic chord types (minor, major, aug, dim, 7ths, 9ths, b9's, etc). Once you've developed these skills, you'll be able to not only memorize songs quickly, but play songs 'on the spot' by ear too.

Lyrics Memorization: Here's a link to a previous discussion thread on that.

Scott

I must have a split personality. The music end of things I have no problem with. It's almost to the point of not having to remember anything - it's just there. Words, on the other hand, are a constant pain. By rights, I should just do instrumentals. That would solve everything. Sad, I know, but I have songs that I've done for over 30 years and still have the words in front of me. The thing is, I barely look at them, so it must be some kind of comfort blanket. Weird, eh?

I don't think it's wierd, unless we both are. I am the same with notes. I can hear every note of thousands of songs, in my head. Lyrics are a different matter. My wife knows tunes and words, and says that I have not listened to the story being told while I was listening all these years. She has a point.

Thanks guys for the fantastic ideas- keep them coming.

I heard an interview with Paul McCarty, and he said when he's getting ready to tour and perform his old songs, he needs to get out his written lyrics and relearn the instrument parts. He made it sound like it wasn't easy for him. And he wrote those tunes!

I also have heard that Sinatra used a telepromter in his latter years. Some one told me that Mick Jagger uses one too.

One the other hand, last year I saw Tonny Bennett perform a two hour set and he nor his band used any charts at all. Amazing!

[This message has been edited by montunoman (edited 11-07-2010).]

Yes, BUT they would only have done about 25 songs, maybe, in that two hour set, all totally rehearsed and rehearsed for about 3 months prior to that set of shows....

Dennis