Sight reading is a crucial skill for musicians to add to their arsenal. The process entails looking at sheet music and playing it without preparing or practicing beforehand. Sight reading can be daunting for beginner musicians, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are five tips to improve this skill and make playing even more fun.

A Guide to Sight Reading Tricks

1. Read the Scales

Reading the key signature is the first step for sight reading, so you know what sharps and flats will be in the piece. When you know your scales well, your understanding of key signatures is more solid and will help guide your hands over the right notes. A strong foundation of scales and keys improves muscle memory as you play.

2. Apply the Time Signatures

The rhythm of the music is found in the time signature, and the more you understand how different rhythms work, the easier sight reading becomes. Near the key signature will be an area that indicates the song is 3/4, 4/4, 6/8, or other choices. This tells you how to count the song as you begin to play.

3. Make a Quick Assessment

Before you begin to play, quickly look over the sheet music in front of you. Gather essential details like the key and rhythm, and find out if either of those will change during the song. Also, note where pages must be turned, and quickly tap out the piece before you dive in. Look for other factors like dynamics — which signal when to play louder or softer — or when to change speed.

4. Choose Various Genres

The more you practice, the easier it will be to tackle new pieces without preparation. Try slow and fast songs, and mix up the genres by trying out classical, jazz, and popular music. Encountering as much sheet music as you can hone your skill of quickly digesting music.

5. Push Through

Don’t get caught up in mistakes. Sight reading is rarely perfect, and focusing on what you miss will only slow you down. Keep playing no matter what; every new piece you play will make you a stronger musician and will build your sight-reading skills.

Since 1995, 5J Music has offered Elko, NV, and surrounding areas everything from sheet music and guitar lessons to body jewelry and tobacco pipes. Musicians in the region enjoy their friendly staff and assortment of guitars, music, vinyl albums, accessories, and gear. Call (775) 778-0484 or like them on Facebook for more information on their products and services.