Mental Practice Technique as a Study Technique Focusing on Cognitive and Perceptual Activities

Abstract

Music practitioners require consistent musical practices from the early stages of their education throughout their professional careers. Historically, educators and performers have favored physical practice methods. Post-20th-century research underscores the significance of brain functions during music perception and performance, challenging traditional, physically-oriented approaches. This study, designed as a case study. The aim of this research is to examine the contribution of the mental practice technique, which emphasizes cognitive and perceptual activities, to music practices. Implemented the mental practice technique with students, analyzing the resultant findings. The analysis suggests that integrating cognitive and perceptual activities into practice routines can enhance the efficacy of musical practice. These findings reinforce the notion that music performance correlates not only with motor movements but also with perceptual awareness and cognitive functions.