Whether you’re a novice guitar player or have been strumming for years, reading music enhances your understanding of the instrument. If you don’t know how to read sheet music, learning is important for improving your playing ability. With a guitar tech offering in-house lessons, 5J Music will help you master this skill; the Elko, NV, experts share their top tips for getting started.

4 Tips for Reading Guitar Sheet Music

1. Buy a Quality Method Book

A good method book is a must-have. You should seek out material with lessons that build logically as the pages pass by. As you improve your skills, the concepts taught will increase in difficulty, but you can work at the rate that’s right for you. Ask your guitar teacher for ideas; some beginner books move faster than others. 

2. Read More Than Just Method Books

Along with a quality method book, you should have access to additional material. Method books are great for establishing a solid foundation, but they offer just a small sample of what’s available. Try new styles by searching for new sheet music. If you’re a fan of a specific type of music, you can get a feel for the genre by stocking up on your favorite songs or try different styles altogether to expand your repertoire.

3. Clear Your Head

Even if you’re an experienced guitarist, take a break from everything you know if you’re just getting into sheet music. Clear your head, and focus on learning what’s in front of you. While some players pick up reading quickly, everyone has their own pace. Concentrate on the reading aspect; the rest will come later.

4. Practice

All musical instruments require practice, as do the skills that accompany them. Reading sheet music is one of those skills, and the best way to perfect it is by practicing every day. It doesn’t have to be much; rip out a page and run through it from beginning to end. As time passes, you’ll be impressed by the stack of pages you’ve gone through, and you’ll get used to reading more difficult material.

With a staff guitar tech ready to teach you sheet music and perfect your skills, 5J Music makes learning this valuable skill easier than ever. If you’re new to the guitar, they also provide a variety of models for you to purchase. Visit their website to learn more, or call (775) 778-0484 to ask about lessons today!