- Write the name of your piece above.
- Mark all your sections. Write the number of sections above.
- Label your sections in your tempo tracker.
- Figure out a slow and secure base speed set to the lowest subdivision. For example, quarter note = 60 is usually a good guess. But you can set it to the eighth note or lower as well. Write it above.
- As you play each section correctly and securely at the base speed, write the base speed in your tempo tracker next to each section. If you’re struggling, change the base speed to be slower. Don’t wait, just decrease the tempo as soon as there is any trouble. Check this off once you have played all sections correctly at the base speed above.
- Once you have all your sections to base speed. Push the tempos by increasing the metronome speed. Write down your successful tempos in your tempo tracker. Check this off once you’re roughly 50-60% to final tempo for all sections
- When you get to roughly 50-60% final tempo. This becomes your Warm-Up speed that you can play 100% correctly right when you sit down at the piano. Always keep this warm-up speed pristine and write it down at the top of your tempo tracker! This is your bulletproof tempo. Write it here ____________
- Once you have your warm-up speed, work in dynamics and finalize the fortes, pianos, crescendos, decrescendos, pedal any stylistic or musical choices are completely locked in at this 50% speed. One you have every single dynamic locked down, check off this box.
- Unify sections by playing multiple sections with the metronome and marking which ones you’ve put together. You should be able to play the entire piece securely at your warm-up tempo then check this box.
- Memorize your sections at this warm-up speed. You should be able to play the whole piece at your warm-up speed with strong fingers.
- Push your tempo again while tracking your speeds. Try to keep the speeds even and work up the slower and more tricky sections first. While pushing, always use your warm-up speed when you begin and end your practice sessions. Start strong and finish strong.
- Once you’ve attained the final tempo, write it down above and maintain both the final tempo and the warm-up tempo. The warm-up tempo provides security, while the final tempo gives you technique.