How To Read Music Fluently
Expertise in music-reading should be among your top priorities.
Music is a type of language and it is essential for a musician to learn to read music fluently. Musicians who sight-read fluently enjoy many professional and artistic advantages.
Reading music well helps artistically because it makes the musician more versatile than a less adept rearder of music notation.
On the professional side, being able to read music well enables the musician to perform with minimal rehearsal time and so they are able to reap the benefits of any of opportunity that rises.
In spite of these benefits, many students of music don’t practice sight-reading enough which results in lessening the quality of their music. At Kathryn Brickell Music we can assist you to be a better musician. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Here are some of the suggested ways to practice sight-reading:
1. Start from basics:
Using Elementary level material is a good way to start practicing. A student must not start off with complex sight-reading material or he would end up losing his stamina and potential. If your reading skills need improvement , opt for elementary music, and then step up the difficulty over an extended period of time.
It is ideal to consult a professional teacher who can determine your skills and recommend suitable material according to your abilities.
2. Practicing daily:
Sight-reading skills require continuous reinforcement if they’re to become second nature. We advise ambitious students to practice reading on their own as well as with their friends and colleagues. A good way to practice your skills is to play in a band, orchestra or any other music group.
3. Fundamental habits to adopt:
Here are some tips to keep you on track:
Scan first: It is always better to analyze the page of the music before actually playing it.
Count mentally: Linking music with your body movements is always a good way to keep track of the rhythm.
Look ahead: Always try looking on the next bar.
Keep going: Even if you make a mistake keep up with the rhythm rather than stopping. Most likely the audience won’t notice your mistake.
Express the music: opening up your emotions to the tone of the music is difficult but is always beneficial.
Minimize effort: Release your tensions and be positive. Kathryn Brickell Music offers a variety of music classes. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or view some of the instruments we offer.