Whether you are beginning a new solo piece, sight reading music in an ensemble, or taking a sight reading audition I’m sure you will find this list useful.
If you are taking a sight reading audition, generally the auditioner will allow you 30 seconds or a minute to look over the excerpt before playing. Use your time wisely!
Some of these items may seem obvious, but considering them in this order can improve both overall sight reading accuracy and musical effect.
1. Composer
Is a composer indicated? If so and you are familiar with the composer, it gives immediate insights to the musical style of the piece:
• Era of music
• Articulation style
• Appropriate use of ornaments
2. Title of piece
• The piece might have a descriptive title such as “Leaves in Autumn.”
• The title might indicate a style or provide other information. For example a Minuet is a dance in ¾ time, a Gavotte is a dance in cut time with phrases starting n the middle of each measure.
3.Tempo indication and musical expression markings
• Is the piece fast or slow?
• Be familiar with how various beat per minute metronome markings sound in case this is the only indication—spend some quality time with your metronome☺
•Study lists of tempo related musical terms:
Common tempo terms in Italian
Common tempo terms in French and German
Common tempo qualifying terms
•Is there a mood marking with an associated tempo?
•Are there any changes in tempo? Be sure to include these in your sightreading.
4.Meter and Rhythms
• What is the time signature?
• What are the various ways the meter is expressed in specific rhythms?
• Do these patterns repeat?
• Where do the patterns change?
• How can I group these rhythms into a larger pulse? (This helps the flow of the music and keeps you from getting lost. Always know where the downbeat is!)
5. Key signature and accidentals
• Visually locate all notes affected by EACH accidental in the key signature -- in all octaves!
• Visually locate all additional accidentals. Do any of them carry through the measure? What is the purpose of the accidentals?
• Are they decorative ( chromatic neighbor tones or fill ins)?
• Do they have harmonic implications? (modulation, relative minor key?)
6. Dynamics
Pay special attention to drastic changes in dynamic.
7. Articulations and Accents
•Notice the articulation patterns.
•Do they repeat?
•Don't let articulation changes affect your rhythm. Avoid rushing slurs or taking a pause when the articulation pattern changes.
8. Ornaments
How do these fit into the rhythm and meter of the piece?
The biggest key to being a great sight reader is to practice it regularly. It’s fun to play duets with a friend! Make it a habit to include sight reading in your daily practice, training your thinking with this list of things to consider.
All the best!
Catherine
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