Monday, March 3, 2014

Hooray for Sightreading!

Hi Piano People!

Winter term is almost done, and spring is just around the corner - I can actually smell spring in the air! :) Yay!

I've had a lot of fun working on theory and notereading with my students. But the biggest joy has been introducing sightreading!  Many of my students who dreaded it have actually learn to enjoy it.

I have to admit, one of my favorite things to do, besides sit under a tree with a book all day, is spend hours at my piano with a stack of music sightreading while I listen to the pitter patter of rain on the roof! (Yes, I am a music geek and proud of it!) :)

I've had a breakthrough with several students.  We've been using Mikrokosmos by Bartok.  If you are not familiar with this series, you should consider it.  Bartok created this series for his students. The pieces in the beginning are short and simple. The left and right hand are actually in unison! (Same note, different octave).

I do have them use the dreaded metronome, but once they get used to playing with the beat, it is actually comforting and effective.

Here is a link to the first five books. I recommend starting at the very beginning, even if you don't consider yourself a beginner.

And use the metronome, it is your friend! :)

Happy practicing!


Mikrokosmos