• Rehearsing at performance volume.
  

Rehearsing in an environment that simulates every possible detail of the performance environment.
- standing or seated as you would in performance
- same microphone, stand,
- same instrument, controls, and accessories
- space (stage area)
- position of other objects typically found on stage
- lighting

It was a great conversation.

A few more thoughts that came to mind later...
When I think of practise, I hear it in as a verb as in, "I practise my scales." It feels like doing "drills". I see repetitive activity that leads to proficiency (I hope).

When I think of rehearsal, I imagine the very specific preparations we make for an imminent live performance. This is usually more physically involving, often done with the people with whom you will be performing.

Up until a couple of days ago, I would have used the term visualization to describe what I do when rehearsing. Today, it seems that the term is not broad enough in its scope.

A simulator is a totally immersive environment and over time, I guess that is what I have been building. A place and a state where everything is as it will be when performing. At least as much as is possible.

I think that it is important to be mindful of your practice, to be aware, to be deliberate and purposeful in your preparations.

You can be as committed to the note that you strike while improvising as to a note on a chart. You can be as committed to a note that you know is coming, whether it is written or known only to you.

For me, the practising, rehearsal and simulation are all parts of the preparation that frees me to commit to that next note, word or action.