Sight-reading and the performance of a musical text at first sight often present many difficulties, which is why it is important to begin the study of this skill in the very first year of piano.
This method, designed to guide the student up to elementary level, is divided into three main sections, each corresponding roughly to a year of study. Each section includes one or more chapters devoted to specific topics, followed by several chapters of review exercises.
It cannot be emphasized enough that each exercise should be repeated until it is fully mastered; a new section should only be approached once the previous one has been completely assimilated. Never looking at one’s fingers is an essential discipline that must be strictly observed from the very first lesson.
This book is therefore intended for beginners, but it may also be suitable for more advanced students, for whom it will develop not only reading skills but also the independence of the two hands.
Preface
Sight-reading, an essential part of every musician’s training, is often neglected. It tends to inspire a certain apprehension in young performers, who prefer, through more or less forced repetition, to try to play a few pieces (brilliantly, if possible…).
But their artistry often stops there, unfortunately, since approaching a new work opens up an entirely new world. Teachers and students alike will therefore be grateful to Catherine Meyer-Garforth for having devised a sight-reading course that is admirably graded, ideally suited to introducing the young pianist with ease into the rich and rewarding world of reading music.
Difficulties are presented one by one, and gradually the student becomes aware of intervals, note values, and chords. They are taught to avoid certain pitfalls and to move with ease between clefs, as well as to connect the written score with the keyboard.
The method is clear, enriched with sound advice, and, to crown it all, grounded in real music.
May it enjoy the widest possible success, for the education and delight of many new devotees of the art of piano playing.
Maurice Duruflé
