| SightReadThis.com
is a web-based system that provides original musical examples
organized into multiple levels of difficulty for the purpose of
sight-reading practice. Unlike comparable print materials, this system
features an expandable database of examples that can be
continually updated. As the database expands over time, it is possible that a
student will never use every melody in a given level. In addition,
the database will track the melodies played by the students, so
they won't inadvertently return to a melody that they have already
used (although they may override this feature at any time). |
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The student will be
able to get immediate feedback by having the computer perform each
melody in the correct key for their instrument. This will enable
the user to play along and evaluate the accuracy of their
performance or simply learn by listening. |
| While rote teaching
as a primary methodology is not being advocated, as a
supplemental activity, it can be very beneficial. |
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| Please
note that the melodies will be performed in a .mid format which
will not contain much, if any, musical expression. The student is
strongly encouraged to seek recordings and performances of
accomplished musicians on their instruments (and others) as a
means to acquiring the expressive tools and conventions of good
musical interpretation. |
| Another important
feature of this program not available in print materials is one
that allows users to select musical examples according to various
parameters. For instance, if a student wants to improve his
ability to read in a particular key, i.e. Db Major (5 flats), he
will be able to transpose any or all of their melody selections to
this key. |
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A student can
therefore choose to work in a lower level of difficulty for his
initial practice in the new key. When acceptable competence has
been achieved, the student can move through higher levels
progressively. Other parameters such as time signature, range,
clef, and rhythmic pattern can be addressed in the same
manner. |
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To insure that students have a means
of finding definitions of all symbols that may appear in these
melodies, an online terms dictionary will be provided. This will not
be a comprehensive dictionary, but will include all of the symbols
and terms found on this site. Additional instructional material
relating to effective practice, auditioning, and basic music theory
instruction will be added to the site throughout the year.
| Progress reports will
be available to the individual user and to an administrative user
such as a band, chorus, or orchestra director. Students may view
their progress report at any time to see how many melodies they
have completed in each level. Administrative users (directors)
will be able to view entire class lists to see how all of their
students are progressing in this area. |
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Since the only sure way to assess the
student's progress is to hear them play, directors will also have a
separate, password-protected area containing sample test material
for each level that is unavailable to the individual user.
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