Music Sight Reading
Adapted from "Music Speed Reading" by David R. Hickman
This method is based on principles similar to the speed reading of words. Rather than allowing the eye to
focus on individual notes or symbols, the eye scans ahead taking in an entire group of notes
"Dot Notes" are random notes without stems or flags. By eliminating the stems and flags, various rhythmic
groupings may be assigned to the dot notes, systematically increasing speed and accuracy.
Utilize several rhythmic groupings to help perceive larger grouping of notes, therefore increasing the speed
of perception in terms of reading.
The next step is to train yourself to recognize various rhythmic divisions or groupings. The importance of the
visual space between notes is presented and reinforced so that the organized rhythmic patterns become
recognizable. Reading improves when perception of the entire rhythmic grouping is done.
With the space perception understood and practiced, linear application follows. Utilizing the time signature
helps the brain process more logically what the notes and rhythms should be.
The reading of music entails two basic difficulties: pitch organization and rhythmic grouping. The player should
be aware of the areas in music sight reading which is weakest and continuously practice to further develop that
perception.
To achieve gratifying results, I encourage all of my students purchase the method book:
Music Speed Reading by David Hickman
The play-a-long tracks that accompany each dot reading rhythms begin with an 8 beat count-off, followed by
a click track the length of the dot reading rhythm. The click track will repeat with the rhythm included.
It is recommended that the player interpret and read the dot or stem rhythms and refer to the 2nd play through to
verify their interpretation.
Verifying sequencing of events:
1. Start play-a-long track, wait for the count-off to start
2. Play/interpret the dot/stem rhythms
3. Listen during the 2nd count-off
4. Play simultaneously with the playback and verify accuracy of interpretation.
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