Tools: Metronome, pencil

Level: All levels

Applicable Instruments: All instruments

Directions:
1. Pick a technically challenging passage.
2. Break it down to manageable segments (usually 2 bars or smaller).
3. Find a tempo in which you can play each segment (not the whole passage) comfortably.
4. Try to play each segment 3 times correctly.
5. After each successful try, take a few seconds to let go of any physical or mental tension.
6. If there are more than 2 mistakes between good tries, restart counting.
7. If still unsuccessful, slow down the tempo.
8. Repeat the process until you cover the entire passage.
9. When it’s done, write down the metronome mark on the music.
10. Speed up the metronome a notch and repeat steps 1–9.

Notes:
The little break after each good try is extremely important. During the break, try not to review or analyze what have just happened. You give the brain time to process the information and by being completely relaxed, you program relaxation into the passage.