How to Read Viola Music
For music students who began their studies at the piano or with the majority of band or string instruments, reading the alto clef, which is used for viola music as well as some vocal music, is a challenge. Here are some tips for making the process easier.
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Instructions
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The alto clef is just one example of a "C clef." With C clefs, the clef always points to middle C. In alto clef, the middle line of the staff is always middle C. Knowing where C is will help you understand where all of the other notes are on the staff.
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For the treble clef, you may have learned, the notes on staff lines can be remembered as Every Good Boy Does Fine and the spaces are F-A-C-E. The notes of the alto clef's lines spell out Fat Alley Cats Eat Garbage, and its spaces spell out Good Birds Do Fly.
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First, write the note names under each note. Practice slowly to ensure that you're playing the correct notes. As you become more comfortable with the alto clef, mark only notes you don't play very often or are harder to read, such as those using ledger lines.
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You can also learn to read the alto clef by writing out scales and simple melodies in it. All it takes is some score paper and patience. You can also practice writing out tunes from the treble clef and the bass clef in alto clef to better understand how the alto clef bridges the distance between those two clefs.
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Finally, there are some great websites for practicing your alto clef reading skills. Like all new music skills, solid and consistent practice is the key to success.
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