Strategies for Using Repetition as a Powerful Teaching Tool

Brain research indicates that repetition is of vital importance in the learning process. Repetition is an especially useful tool in the area of music education. The success of repetition can be enhanced by accurate and timely feedback. From “simple repetition” to “repetition with the addition or subtraction of degrees of freedom,” there are many forms of repetition that can be successfully adapted to music education. Descriptions of each form of repetition are provided, along with accompanying rehearsal strategies that can be implemented in the classroom. Music teachers can avoid the pitfalls of boredom and mindless repetition by constantly shifting teaching strategies and including new goals and framing techniques. Using these strategies wisely, music educators can provide meaningful, refreshed, and powerful teaching and learning opportunities for both themselves and their students.