Note reading is an essential skill for today’s musicians. Learning to read music, though, can be a tedious journey in spite of its importance. Teaching note reading to younger beginners is especially challenging because of their short attention spans, their body’s need to move, and their reading levels. A positive attitude on the teacher’s part can go far in inspiring students to learn their notes. Some simple tips for teaching note reading can help, too.
Introduce the grand staff first. I’ve noticed that students who learn music with pre-reading exercises (i.e., with finger numbers attached to notes that are NOT on the staff) have trouble making the jump from notes that aren’t on the staff to notes that are on the staff. Even when the only thing that changes is the addition of the grand staff, it can still confuse even the most avid young musician. Taking the time to introduce the grand staff by itself first can make a big difference in the student’s ability to understand the notes.
Teach lines and spaces next. Another way to help a student get comfortable with note reading is to use the lines and spaces to your advantage. Play games with the younger beginner, such as putting pennies or candies on the spaces and lines of a large staff. Have them count spaces or lines between the candies, and explore which candies are higher and which ones are lower. Of course, eating a few candies here and there is great motivation.
Explain that each line or space represents a specific note on the piano (or other instrument). Some students grasp that the lines and spaces represent certain notes, but they get confused when they have to pick which note of the same name on their instrument is represented by a note of the staff. For instance, they may know that the third space represents a C on the piano, but they may not be able to tell you whether its middle C or high C. Spend some time explaining the spatial relationships or play some games that focus on finding specific notes.
Use a pneumonic to teach the notes. We all know that All Cows Eat Grass and Good Boys Do Fine Always, because this helps us remember the lines and spaces on the staff. The challenge for pre-readers is that they may have trouble remembering the old faithful pneumonic. Allow them to create their own if it helps them remember, or create something specific for each student.
Fill in notes on the staff together. Writing in the letter names for empty notes on a scale really helps children assimilate note reading knowledge. The newer the student, the easier the task should be. Beginners in my studio fill in notes that are all in row – a complete two octave scale. It may seem elementary, but it helps them to understand the relationship between the notes.
Pick a few notes to practice with flash cards. Flash cards are a great way to review notes. Start with just a few easy notes – maybe three at the most. Practice those notes, having students say and play the letter name. Add in more notes as the student is ready.
Draw notes out of a hat to play. This is a silly game, which students love. Cut up a staff so that each piece has one note. Have the student draw a note out of a bucket and play it as fast as possible, then choose another. Pick and choose notes for students depending on their level of ability.
Play bean bag toss with a giant floor staff. I have a giant vinyl floor staff that my students really enjoy. I have them toss bean bags at it, then call out the name of the note it lands on. Beginner students can use a ‘cheat sheet’ with note names written on it to help. This is especially great for students that need to be more active. They can even run to the piano to find the note for extra exercise.
Encourage students to write their own music. Engage your students’ creative side, and help them write their own song. The act of notating the music will be motivating for them, since it’s their own music, and the practice will be great for their note reading skills.
Make up words out of the note names. Students get a kick out of writing words on the staff using the first seven letter of the alphabet. Create a fill-in-the-blanks worksheet or have students come up with their own.
Whether you are a seasoned teacher or someone who is just getting their feet wet, you will be able to teach your students how to read music notes. With time, patience, and a bit of creativity, your students will be excited to learn. Happy teaching!