Look For The Trouble Spots

After you have established the key and time signatures, the next step is to scan through the piece and see where the tricky places are. Often times, it’s one huge leap that throws us off or even an unusual accidental like a double sharp. If we know in advance, then we will be prepared and not get thrown off track at that place. Most singers I work with carry a pencil with them at all times and write in the music where these places are.

Another great symbol to use is a pair of glasses. It means to watch the director so you are not all of a sudden singing solo. The incredible thing about group singing which is where most sightsinging occurs is that there will be a synchronicity that happens. One person is strong when the other one is weak. If you’ve prepared your quick synopsis of the piece, then you can be that strong voice during the roadblocks and not get caught off guard.