First Position
Reading Notes on the High E string
When you first start out try just playing the pitches and saying the names of the notes as you play. Then try it with the rhythm counting out loud. You can download the exercises first and then become more fluid and comfortable practice with the video below. Don't memorize the exercises they are meant to train you to read the music.
Tips for sight-reading:
Always count, counting out loud really helps.
Don’t fix mistakes, always keep going.
Read ahead, don't just focus on the note you are playing look ahead to watch out for interval jumps and tricky rhythms.
PAUSE EACH VIDEO PREVIEW SCREEN (example with white background) before the video starts and look over the entire exercise. Is there anything that you need to prepare for such as accidentals, rhythms, etc).
DON'T GIVE UP! Slow down the tempo if you need to. If it's still difficult work on previous videos that focus on your weaknesses; such as bass notes, syncopations, accidentals, etc.
Practice sight-reading every day, consistency is the key.
Be Mindful: Make sure you are using good technique and a clear tone when sight-reading also try to make each example musical by using dynamics, vibrato when needed, and different timbres.
Good luck this skill takes time and patience. I struggled with it myself so I understand your frustration.
REMEMBER TO COUNT OUT LOUD.
Reading Notes on the B String
Practice saying the name of the notes and playing them at the same time.
Once you feel comfortable try sight-reading the video:
Feel free to practice the exercises over and over again if you struggle. If you view the video on YouTube you can use timestamps to jump to the exercises you need more practice with.
Reading Notes on the E and B String
Practice saying the name of the notes and playing them at the same time. Once you feel comfortable try sight-reading the video. Feel free to practice the exercises over and over again if you struggle. If you view the video on YouTube you can use timestamps to jump to the exercises you need more practice with.
Reading Notes on the G String
The G string only has two notes in the first position, the G string open and A on the 2nd fret.
Reading the treble strings
On the guitar, we divide the six strings into two groups trebles (High E, B, G) and Basses (Low E, A, D).
This week we will be working on mastering reading the treble strings.
You know what to do, say the names of the notes as you play them then try the sight-reading video.
Only the first page is displayed below view the rest by clicking the download button above.
Reading Notes on the D string
Reading Notes on the A String
Reading Notes on the Low E String
Reading Bass Notes
Reading All of the Notes in First Position
More Sight Reading in First Position
Sight Reading with Rests
When you have a rest make sure to stop all ringing.
Think of rests as playing silence.
Sight Reading with Dots and Ties
If you are unfamiliar with dots and ties watch this video on rhythm.
Rhythm Practice: Eighth Notes and Syncopation
Eighth Note Sight Reading
Sight Reading Accidentals (Sharps and flats)
Reading Different Time Signatures
3/4 Time
2/4 Time
3/8, 6/8, 9/8, 12/8 Rhythm Practice
3/8 Time
6/8 Time
Key Signatures