Before Written Music: How Students Remembered Exericises and Tunes for Practice

Before the advent of written music, the practice and transmission of musical knowledge and skills were a communal affair. This period, often referred to as the pre-written music era, was characterized by the reliance on various methods of transmitting musical information from one person to another. This article explores the methods used by students of musical instruments to remember and practice exercises or tunes without the aid of written notation.

Dependence on Oral Tradition

The concept of musical education before written music relied heavily on the oral tradition. Information was passed from one generation to the next through verbal communication and direct instruction. Students often learned by listening and observing their teachers and other musicians in their community. The dedication of students to observe and imitate the performances of more experienced musicians was key to their learning process.

Verbal Communication and Direct Instruction

Direct instruction was a fundamental component of pre-written music education. Teachers would verbally guide their students through exercises and repertoire, ensuring that the techniques and practices were correctly understood. This method also allowed for real-time feedback and correction, which was invaluable for developing accurate and nuanced playing skills.

Repetitive Exercises

Repetition formed the backbone of learning in the absence of written notation. Students would practice exercises and pieces repeatedly until they were ingrained in their memory. Through this drilling, they would internalize the nuances of the music and develop the muscle memory necessary for proficient playing.

One-Note Drones and Simplified Practices

The instruments of the pre-written music era often only played in one key, commonly relying on a drone. The continuous sound of the drone helped simplify the learning process by providing a consistent tonal reference. This allowed students to focus on the technical aspects of playing without the added complexity of changing keys or keysignatures.

Weekly Repetition of Single Pieces

Another effective method was the practice of a single piece or exercise for weeks at a time. By dedicating extended periods to mastering a piece, students could develop the necessary skills and muscle memory to perform it with confidence. Each session would build on the previous one, allowing for gradual improvement and refinement of the performance.

Conclusion

The pre-written music era demonstrates the adaptability and resourcefulness of musicians and communities. Through the use of oral tradition, direct instruction, repetitive exercises, and reliance on one-note drones, students were able to effectively learn and remember exercises and tunes for practice. This period highlights how important community and observation were in the transmission of musical knowledge.

Understanding these methods can provide valuable insights into the historical development of music and help modern musicians and educators appreciate the depth of traditional techniques.