Olivia Mou

“Keep your instrument in the case” – Expert musicians’ non-play practice strategies for string students

Practice is critical to shape expertise and performance readiness. But what sets expert string players apart in their practice? How do experts approach the task and manage their demanding schedules? Expert practice begins long before entering the practice room, is planned thoughtfully, and may or may not involve touching the instrument. I will investigate the concept of non-play practice and its critical role in musical training.  Expert musicians employ non-play strategies to study the score, develop their interpretation, refine technical control, and prepare for performance. They use visualisation, vocalising, critical listening, and airplay to connect mental rehearsal with physical preparation. These strategies create an embodied awareness between mind and body, allowing musicians to internalise the music accurately and expressively. To practise performance, experts envisage the concert day, and simulate their experience on the stage.

Non-play strategies are essential to expert musicians’ practice, and central to their teaching. Experts provide key guidance to students on how to practise more efficiently and improve their connection to the music. They actively demonstrate, explain, and engage students in applying non-play strategies to their daily practice. This presentation will reveal experts’ strategies for students to enhance music practice and optimise performance success.

About Olivia Mou

Olivia Mou is a PhD candidate at the University of Sydney, specialising in music performance research. Classically trained in the violin, she holds a Bachelor’s degree in performance and a Master’s degree in performance research. Her academic interests centre on mental imagery, embodied cognition, and performance preparation, with her current research exploring the practice strategies of expert musicians and music students. Olivia is passionate about bridging research and practice to enhance the learning experiences of string students.