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How to Sight Read Music for Singing

Sight reading strikes fear in the hearts of countless musicians. With a little practice, you can improve your sight-reading ability and feel less anxiety about approaching a new work. Take some steps to improve your singing and be better prepared for impromptu performances. There are no tricks to becoming a better performer; only practice and a disciplined approach will help a singer improve.

Things You'll Need

  • Sheet music
  • Rhythm book
  • Sight-singing text
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Instructions

  1. Preparation

    • 1
      Rhythm books help musicians play advanced rhythms.

      Practice with a book of rhythms. Becoming comfortable with rhythms will make it easier to perform on the spot.

    • 2
      Practicing rhythm is a good way to rest the voice and still practice.

      Work through a sight-singing book. Practice daily; approach each melody carefully until perfected. Sight reading will become easier with time.

    • 3
      Develop the ears through ear training.

      Start an ear-training course to train you to hear intervals quickly. This, in combination with daily singing and rhythm exercises, will help improve a singer's ability rapidly.

    Sight Reading

    • 4
      Key signatures tell the performer the number of sharps and flats.

      Start a session by looking at the key signature. It is important to know what key the music is in to avoid singing incorrect pitches.

    • 5
      Rhythms hold the key to accurately singing the piece.

      Analyze the rhythm before beginning to sing any part of the melody. If the rhythm isn't correct, the melody will falter.

    • 6
      Mark accidentals in the score to ensure they are played correctly.

      Determine the accidentals within the melody that will cause confusion. Look at any accidentals closely.

    • 7
      Mentally envision what the piece will sound like.

      Rehearse the piece mentally. If you can't play back the melody in your mind, singing it will be even more difficult.

    • 8
      Keeping a steady tempo will help keep the piece moving.

      Sing the melody with a steady tempo. With practice, these steps will become much easier.

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