Explore how fuzzy mental images can hinder performance and discover an easier way to enhance mental imagery through action observation. Learn why performances often sound better at home than on stage, delving into factors beyond just nerves. The Mental Skills Audit quiz helps identify your mental strengths and weaknesses, offering strategies to bridge the gap between practice and performance. Plus, hear a relatable cooking mishap that highlights how uncomfortable experiences can influence our mindset in performance settings.
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Food Poisoning Memory
Noah Kageyama vividly remembers a meal of fish and chips and blueberry cobbler from over two decades ago.
This was the first and only time he and his wife experienced food poisoning, making the memory particularly strong.
insights INSIGHT
Vividness of Imagery
Vivid memories, like Kageyama's food poisoning experience, can trigger physical reactions.
Research suggests the vividness of mental images impacts the effectiveness of mental practice.
insights INSIGHT
Aphantasia and Imagery
Aphantasia, the inability to create mental images, has gained research attention.
While no cure exists, imagery ability can be developed for most people.
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You've heard that mental practice and mental imagery can help enhance your learning - but what if your images are fuzzy and this is difficult for you? Is this something that you can get better at with practice?
Spoiler alert: yes - and a 2014 study provides some insights into a way to improve your mental imagery abilities that might be easier than practicing imagery the regular old-fashioned way. Through a technique called "action observation."
But is action observation as effective as the traditional way of practicing imagery?
* * * Have you been feeling a little stuck or stagnant in the practice room? Or has performance anxiety and the gap between practice and performance been a nagging issue that hasn’t changed, no matter how well you've prepared for performances, auditions - and even lessons?
If you’ve been wanting to experience more joy in the practice room and play more like yourself on stage, but haven’t been quite sure how to make that happen, starting July 22, 2025, I’ll be teaching a live, online, accelerated 2-week class on the most essential mental skills and practice strategies that can make a difference in your practicing and performing.
We’ll meet twice a week via Zoom and work on a series of exercises and techniques in four essential skill areas (effective practice, managing anxiety, focus, and confidence), together as a group. And to make sure the concepts become consistent habits, I'll show you how to gently integrate these new skills into your (or your students’) daily practice through bite-sized practice challenges alongside a supportive group of practice buddies from around the world.
Over 2000 musicians, educators, and students and learners of all ages have participated in the course to date. You can find out what alumni are saying, and sign up to join Cohort 24 at:
The Bulletproof Musician