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2torial #0917:
Learn2 Read Music

Music to your eyes
A lot of people think music is difficult to
read--but it's not. It's actually the simplest
written language there is. And once you get the
basics down, the rewards will last a lifetime.
Whether it's classical, rock, hip hop, techno, reggae, ambient,
country, folk, jazz or anything else, music is written and recognized
in the same way throughout most of the world.
Learning how to read music is a significant step toward eventually
being able to play, sing or even write any song you want. And while
this 2torial won't turn you into the
next Duke Ellington overnight, it will provide the skills you need
for a basic read.

Before you tackle these steps, get your hands on some beginner-level
sheet music to use as a reference as you're going along. See if
you can find a copy of a song you like. This will be a tremendous
help in familiarizing yourself with the basic fundamentals we'll
present.
Another big help will be to find yourself an instrument. Even though
you don't need one to read music in general, an instrument can be
invaluable when it comes to understanding how a note's sound relates
to what appears on paper. We'll focus on music for keyboard instruments,
such as the piano or organ. However, music theory is generally universal,
regardless of what instrument you're playing (including your voice).
If you don't have access to an instrument of
your own, try renting or borrowing one from a
friend. Sometimes community centers or religious
organizations have instruments (especially pianos
or organs) that are available for public use. Even
if you're planning to sing the music you learn to
read, it's important to know how it should sound
and where to start.
On that note...
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