Learn How To Read Sheet Music

Read Sheet Music

Start with scanning through the whole sheet before you play. Check out the clefs on both hands and place your hands on the proper hand positions.

Check out the Time signature and the key signature. Be sure you k

now which scale you're in, not only to be certain of the placement of sharps and flats but also in order to get an idea of the character of the piece (major or minor, happy or sad and so on…)

Check out the dedication at the beginning of the piece. It will tell you what tempo and mood you're supposed to set you mind on. It's amazing how one word can give you so much information about the experience you're supposed to be creating.

Next scroll through the whole music sheet and look for repeating passages. Try to get the form of the piece in your mind and look for repeating motives.

Before you start to play, have an idea about how the piece is set. Is the right hand playing the melody and the left hand the accompaniment? Or maybe the right hand plays both the harmony and the melody while the left hand does the bass?

These definitions will help you to understand where to focus on when practicing and how to play dynamically in a way that will emphasize the essence of the piece.

Practice first each hand apart. Only then combine both hands together.
Do not play the whole piece from beginning to end. Instead break it into passages, lines and motives and practice each two to four bars until you play them perfectly.

Start working slowly. Use the metronome to guide you and make sure you're playing according to the rhythm. Always count (Preferably aloud).

Work with a pencil and point out difficult places, so next time when you practice you'll start working on those spots at the beginning of your practice when you're at your best.

Do not ignore signs or notes which you're not familiar with. Learn what they are so you are learn more.

Last but not least. Do not give up. Remember that Rome wasn't built in one day and that when you started reading English it took you some time as well. Have faith and stick to these guidelines and you'll be reading sheet music before you know it!