A number of
persons learning to play the piano are some time turned off from learning
because they are having difficulties with sight reading. Some individuals say
that they have been trying for months and even years to acquire this skill but
they are unable to see success.
Today I
want to share some basic information with you that will help to enhance your
skill in reading sheet music. However, it would be best to take a look at the
phrase “sight reading” first.
Sight
reading can be defined as the ability to read and performance a piece of music
at the same time.
Many great
piano players and composers of the 19th century, dedicated a lot of
time to learn this skill. So if you dedicate some quality time and get a great
music teacher to guide you, then you will be able to develop this great skill.
Here are
some simple things you can do to improve your skill in reading sheet music. I
have used them with my students and they worked.
Learn to
identify the keys on your piano with your fingers without looking too much at
the keyboard. Use this strategy every day in your practice sessions until you
are able to do it accurately.
Now try
playing your scales and arpeggio without looking too much on the piano
keyboard. Do this as often as possible.
Take some
time to study the lines and spaces of the treble and bass staff. Then take any
sheet music and touch specific notes and say the letter name of each note. Try doing
this as quickly as possible. Use this approached with other sheet music from
time to time. (Please do not mark your music sheet when doing this exercise.)
Study other
symbols such as key signatures, time signatures, tempo marks, dynamics signs
among others.
Tap or clap
the rhythmic patterns of the piece so as be familiar with it. Do this for the
treble and bass staff. You can use a metronome during this period.
Be
confident and work closely with your music teacher during your music sessions.
It would be good if you get a music teacher who is willing to be patient with
you.
Make sure
you outline the objectives to be met for each piano class. Practicing what you
have learnt during your music sessions is also very important. But also
challenge yourself with materials that you have never played before.
When
practicing sight reading by yourself, you will be tempted not to follow the
schedule time as planned. But it is very important that you use up all the time
you have set for your practice sessions. I am sure that if you keep doing all
that was discussed early consistently, you will see some improvement.
Please leave your comments! Share other important tips you have on sight reading.
