note-bash

See also: note bash

English

Alternative forms

• note bash

Etymology

From note +‎ bash, as an allusion to bashing the keys of a piano in an unmusical fashion when first learning a piece.

Pronunciation

• (Received Pronunciation) IPA^(key): /ˈnəʊtˌbæʃ/

Verb

note-bash (third-person singular simple present note-bashes, present participle note-bashing, simple past and past participle note-bashed)

1. (chiefly intransitive, UK, music, informal) To learn the most basic aspects of a piece of music (such as the notes and rhythm) via rote repetition, without regard for tempo, dynamics, style or musicality; typically done when first learning a new piece, as a way to build muscle memory.

   I hate note-bashing - we've been doing it all afternoon!

Usage notes

• Despite first being used by pianists, the term is now in general use among classical musicians.