(30) How can I develop good sight reading skills? Sight reading is
learned by doing; it takes a quick wit, direction from an experienced
teacher, and practice. I require sight reading in every lesson. Being
a good sight reader requires a combination of two elements:
1. Learning as much music theory, music history, and related
subjects, as one can manage. Having, in other words, a deep interest
in music, in general; and
2. Practical experience in sight reading. This is acquired by
joining as many formal or informal groups as one can locate, and also
regularly attending to new music in the home practice.
A few things to keep in mind:
1. At the head of every piece of music, there are three areas to
examine initially: the clef signs, the key signature and the time
signature;
2. One should also have some general idea about the style period;
3. Glance through the piece if you have time and look at the form
and chord structures. Determine, at minimum, whether it's in a major
or minor key, and note any development or recapulation materials.
Knowing how to sight read well is the prized skill of many
studio musicians. These are great, great players who can "sightread
the bugs off a wall," and are highly trained, highly experienced,
reliable, professionals. Some of them also teach, some privately, some
in university. Studio musicians are typically used for recordings and
film music. They are frequently AFM (or the Canadian counterpart)
members. See: American Federation of Musicians
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