Do you want to learn how to read music notation with easy-to-follow, step-by-step lessons?

Did you ever try to learn music theory but got frustrated with complicated jargon and mysterious terms?

If so, this book is perfect for you!

This best-selling book offers a unique 30-day program that makes learning how to read music simple and fun. Imagine how, in just about a month, you’ll be able to look at sheet music and know exactly what every symbol, sign, and term means. You’ll know the fundamental theory behind the how, why, and what of the music that’s in front of you!

With over 150 music examples, over 100 written exercises, 10 listening experiences, expert tips, lesson summaries, a final test, and online access to the audio examples, you will steadily progress towards learning:

• The absolute essentials of music theory,
• How rhythm REALLY works,
• The complete system behind musical notes,
• The crucial details of music notation,
• How specific musical symbols give life to all written music.

A strong foundation in the basics is essential if you want to read music, play an instrument for your friends and fans, sing in a choir or as a solo, record in a studio, compose music, write songs, or anything else in music. This book is your practical, step-by-step guide to building that foundation.

Finally, you can stop searching the web endlessly in hopes of finding the right information. With this comprehensive but practical approach, your music theory questions are answered in full.

And thanks to the valuable feedback of hundreds of students of all ages and backgrounds, “How to Read Music in 30 days” is now in its 3rd edition, revised and expanded to suit all types of beginner musicians.

Hundreds of students have successfully gone through this practical system to master musical notation and fundamental music theory. Now, it’s your turn! Let’s get started!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I really learn how to read music in 30 days?
Absolutely! In fact, we start reading our most basic symbols as from day 1. You will not become an expert sight-reader in 30 days: no book, no teacher, and no program can replace the practice it takes to become a professional. But you can significantly cut down on the time it takes to get there by learning the foundations in the right way and in the right order. This is what this book is for.

Are music terms in American English or British English?
Both are included throughout. Although not that many terms are different in the 2 systems, there are added benefits to being aware of both sets of terms.

Is this book for guitarists, pianists, singers, and other instrumentalists?
Since the basics are the same for all instruments, this book will benefit anyone who is a beginner no matter which instruments they play. If you’re looking to refresh your music theory basics, fill any gaps in your knowledge of musical notation, or start from absolute scratch in reading music, this book is for you.

Can I skip through lessons?
The author suggests going through the program as it is presented. The comprehensive curriculum is designed to: progress in small steps, fill any knowledge gaps for those returning to music after a long pause, and build a foundation for any exams, tests, or diplomas you might someday want to sit for.

Is this book suitable for young children?
No. This method is designed for adults that are either self-teaching or working with a teacher. However, it does work for parents or guardians who want to take part in their young ones’ music lessons.

Do I have to sign up to get the audio clips?
You don’t have to if you don’t want to. There are three options to access the audio and the answers to the exercises. One requires signing up but the other two do not.

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Do you believe that some people can sight-read and others can’t?

In How to sight-read, Paul Harris dispels this and other common misconceptions about sight-reading, presenting instead the idea of sight-reading as a technique that can developed and learned by anyone. He breaks down the fascinating science behind sight-reading as well as providing practical advice and exercises that can be incorporated into both lessons and practice.

The engaging activities in the book are supported by a unique accompanying web app enabling readers to improve key areas of sight-reading technique including rhythm, pattern recognition, and brain processing speed.

Written to help students, parents and teachers alike, How to sight-read challenges existing perspectives on sight-reading and presents an innovative new approach to teaching and learning this vital musical skill.

‘This book has elevated sight-reading practice to the next level, using a fresh, fun approach that blends solid vision, science principles, and 21st-century technology.’
Debra Grant BSc (Hons) MCOptom

‘Paul Harris has offered the concept that sight-reading is simply a technique that can be easily learnt by us all… This is a mustread for music students and teachers.’
John Hutchins, Director Junior Academy and LRAM, Royal Academy of Music

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