Sight-Reading Tips Sight reading is a skill that anyone can learn to do very well. Learning to play your scales is half the battle. Major scales, minor scales, chromatic scales, scales in thirds and arpeggios all make up music, so if you already know them, you’ll be better prepared to handle any sight-reading that comes your way. It is also important to know the definitions of musical terms because they are a big clue on how to interpret the music (ex. tempo or style). When sight-reading look for the following things: Key signature Time signature or meter Tempo Style Stylistic markings accent, staccato, legato, etc. articulation patterns (slur 2, tongue 2, etc.) dynamics Rhythmic patterns Accidentals Most importantly, you have to simply practice sight-reading in order to be good at it. Borrow etude books from your band director and simply play through them without stopping while maintaining a steady tempo throughout. Just like anything, the more you do it the better you get at it! Back to the Education Page