Sight reading is an area in which many musicians struggle. I think that in order to be a good musician, you need to be strong in all areas of your technique. Here are some tips to help you improve your sight reading:
- Work out the speed in your head before you start. Look at the time signature, clap a pulse and go through the music in your head.
- Rhythm. Look at any difficult rhythms and clap them out loud whilst keeping the pulse in your head.
- Look at the key signature. An important step to work out any sharps or naturals that you have to play.
- Pitch notes in your head before you play them. This step is especially important for brass players to ensure there are no split notes.
- Look at dynamics, articulation, changes in tempo etc. The final step to make your performance musical and to add expression to the music.
