Are you a budding musician struggling to make sense of those mysterious symbols and notes on sheet music? Don't worry, you're not alone. But before you grab that pencil to scribble note names above or below the notes, let me tell you a little secret – it's not going to help you learn faster. In fact, it might just slow you down.
As a multi-instrumentalist, bachelor music teacher, and author of 4 music teaching books, I've been helping students all over England for more than a decade. I've seen firsthand how relying on note names can hinder progress, and I'm here to show you a better way. So, buckle up and let's dive into the 15 reasons why writing note names on sheet music is a bad idea, and discover some effective alternatives to help you become a sight-reading pro!
1. It hinders the sight-reading ability
As I mentioned earlier, writing note names under or above the notes is like putting training wheels on a bike – it's a temporary solution that prevents you from developing true sight-reading skills. You'll become dependent on those note names and never learn to recognize the notes by sight, slowing down your progress in the long run.
2. It's not practical
Imagine trying to read sheet music with different note names scribbled all over it. Confusing, right? The more you rely on note names, the more difficult it will be to read sheet music without them.
3. It's unnecessary
With just three key notes to remember – treble clef G note, middle C, and bass clef F note – you can easily count up or down to find any note on the sheet music. It takes practice, but it's a skill that will last a lifetime.
4. It's a slippery slope
Once you start writing note names, it's hard to stop. You'll become more and more reliant on them, creating a crutch that will be difficult to let go of later on.
5. It's a disservice to your brain
Our brains are amazing learning machines, capable of recognizing patterns and making connections. By writing note names, you're not allowing your brain to develop these essential skills.
6. It limits your musical repertoire
When you rely on note names, you're limiting yourself to only playing sheet music that includes them. You'll miss out on a world of beautiful and challenging pieces waiting to be discovered.
7. It's time-consuming
Writing note names on sheet music is a slow and tedious process. Instead of spending that time writing, invest it in practising and mastering sight-reading skills.
8. It doesn't help with rhythm and timing
Writing note names won't help you understand rhythm and timing, two essential elements of music. You'll still need to practice these skills separately.
9. It's not a professional approach
In the world of professional musicians, sight-reading is a must-have skill. Writing note names on sheet music won't prepare you for the challenges of a professional career.
10. It hampers your improvisational skills
Improvisation requires a deep understanding of music theory and the ability to read sheet music quickly. Relying on note names will hold you back in this area.
11. It prevents you from developing a deeper understanding of music theory
By focusing on note names, you miss out on the opportunity to delve into the fascinating world of music theory – a world that I, as a music theory enthusiast, find as intriguing as physics and mathematics. Understanding music theory allows you to explore the world through the laws of musical harmony.
12. It's not how the pros do it
When you watch professional musicians play, you won't see them reading note names on their sheet music. They've developed their sight-reading skills to the point where they can play without needing note names as a crutch.
13. It takes away the joy of discovery
Part of the fun of learning music is the process of discovery, making connections, and understanding the relationships between notes. Writing note names robs you of this enjoyable experience.
14. It doesn't impress your friends
Let's be honest – when you're playing a piece of music, it looks much cooler when you can read the sheet music without needing note names. Your friends and fellow musicians will be impressed with your sight-reading skills!
So, what's the solution? Practice, practice, practice. Work with your music teacher to develop your sight-reading ability and invest time in understanding music theory. Embrace the challenge and learn to read sheet music without any assistance.
If you're looking for a structured approach, check out my "Understand! the Music" series, which helps develop the correct way of reading sheet music and offers practical exercises to improve sight-reading ability.
In conclusion, resist the temptation to write note names on sheet music. It might seem like a shortcut, but it's a trap that will hinder your progress. Instead, focus on practising and developing your sight-reading ability. It might be challenging at first, but with patience and determination, you'll get there.
Now, I'd like to hear from you: Which of these 15 reasons resonated with you the most? Or maybe you have a different method that works for you? Leave a comment below and let's discuss!
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