Reading Music and Reading About Music: Inspiration and Understanding

I. Before warming up on your instrument, try warming up your musical mind by reading about music.  First, get that method book out and make sure you have read the introduction.

A. Circle or underline important words regarding technique and playing position.

B. Make sure you understand all the symbols used in your book.

C. Pay attention to fingerings and other pencil markings you and your instructor have written on the sheet music.

II. After playing your instrument for about 10 minutes you may need to take a short break to read the words in your book.  Feel free to put your instrument down, stand up and read out loud.

A. Does your method book have any specific pointers, paragraphs or    instructions on your next assignment? 

B. Do you have a musical dictionary (Harvard, Oxford, etc.)?  Use that dictionary to ensure you understand the meaning of all words in the sheet music.  This may inspire searching for things like:

1. Composer info

2. The meaning of the song title

3. Italian words

C. Keep any other books you may have on music in your practice space so you can glance at them during your breaks.

III.  After your practice session is over you may want to read a music theory book or practice journal.  

A. Music has an underlying procedure in music theory fundamentals.  You never know what songs you’ll want to learn in the future or who you’ll get a chance to play with.  Understanding music theory will prepare you for those unknown inspirations/collaborations.

1. Ask your instructor to recommend a book on music theory as it can facilitate long term understanding.

B. Reading a practice journal each day is another great way to remember your goals and favorite songs.

Finally, keep an open mind and read about a variety of musical styles and techniques so you cultivate a life-long passion and hobby.  Don’t just play your instrument, start exploring the wide world of music books on a regular basis.