Sightreading is most people’s biggest fear when it comes to an exam or joining an orchestra, but it can be managed more effectively if you have a method.

If you are seeing a piece for the first time, it can be scary or intimidating, and you may be sitting next to someone in an orchestra who can play the notes and rhythm straight away, or you may have the dreaded 30 seconds to prepare during an exam.

So how is the best way to tackle a new piece?

1 Check the key signature and if you are not sure then look at the final note of the piece as it usually ends on the tonic.

2 Observe the time signature, hopefully you may be able to clap the rhythm whilst counting the beat.

3 Look for any tricky bars eg fast notes or accidentals, position changing.

4 Play it through if you are able, this is especially important during an exam as generally you will play it better the second time.

5 If you are in an orchestra then even if you can’t play all the notes, try and follow and join in where you can, even if you only play the first beat of a bar.