Assuming you already know some of the basics of reading sheet music, learning new piano music is easier than ever because, in addition to all the wonderful printed books, we also have many online options for downloading and printing sheet music. Plus there are several arrangements and different ability levels to choose from (easy piano, beginner, intermediate, or advanced). Here are a few tips on how to approach new sheet music and learn it well:
1. Choose music appropriate for your level
If you’re a beginner, choose an arrangement that matches your level so that you don’t become frustrated or overwhelmed. It needs to be within the realm of your ability. If you’re more of a beginner to intermediate level, then choosing an arrangement that is slightly more challenging will help propel you forward and likely introduce you to new concepts that will help you grow as a pianist. It also depends on how much time you’re willing to devote to learning the piece. If you have several months to work on it, then go for the more challenging arrangement. If you need to learn it, however, for an impromptu recital the following week, then go for the easier version.
2. Analyze the music
Give it a good theory analysis run-down and make sure you understand the main concepts – key signature, time signature, and structure. Take note of any repeated sections or signature changes. If you’re unsure of any notes (such as outlying ledger line notes), learn and take note of the correct keys.
3. Write in the fingering
If finger number suggestions are provided, take note and circle the ones that are especially helpful. If fingering is not provided, then figure it out ahead of time so that you can play with good technique, finger legato, and smooth chord structures and progressions. When possible, apply fingering rules, such as first inversion chords should be played with 1-2-5 in right hand or 5-3-1 in left hand, etc.
4. Learn hands separately
Identify and play through the melody first, learning the phrasing and working out expression. Then separately learn the accompaniment. The idea is that you know all the individual parts well and can work out the voicing of the arrangement. This will also help with dynamic control, as we often aim to make the melody stronger in dynamic and the accompaniment softer. Working on hands separately enables you to check fingering and notes and make sure you have the fundamentals down correctly.
5. Work on small sections at a time
As you progress with your practicing, don’t try to tackle the whole piece from start to finish. Rather, work on small sections at a time, mastering individual phrases. It’s good to mix it up from day to day. Choose a section from the middle of the piece and just work on that. Or one from the end. As you gain familiarity with all the parts, it will help the whole piece come together more fluidly when it’s time to put it together.
6. Listen to different recordings of the piece
No two performances are alike, and each person has their own unique expression of a piece. Study how others have interpreted it. Notice the similarities and differences between the various recordings. The more you are familiar with the way the piece sounds the easier it will be to master the different sections. It will help you emotionally connect with the piece, understand the timing and phrasing, and give you ideas on how to approach it expressively.
7. Keep it fun and know when to take breaks
Carve out time to practice when you’re alert and ready to focus. If you’re a morning person, then devoting time to practice earlier in the day will be much more effective than in the evening. Warm-up into your practice by playing other pieces or exercises that you find interesting or enjoyable to help you emotionally connect with your practice time. Know when you need a break and be sure to congratulate yourself for every practice session!