Sight Reading Studio offers 10 difficulty presets containing predetermined settings pertaining to rhythm, pitch, key, time signatures, dynamics, and articulations. For a comprehensive list on how to set up your Sight Reading template, click here. These presets are a helpful starting point for creating sight reading exercises, and can be customized, if desired. Below are descriptions of what each preset contains:

 

Preset 1 exercises will always be in 4/4 time and use the same key signature. By default, exercises contain a single pitch and no durations shorter than a quarter note. (Musicality is off by default to generate exercises that adhere to these settings.)

 

Preset 2 introduces the 2/4 time signature and dotted half-note. Exercises have a range of a fifth, with only stepwise motion. (Musicality is off by default to generate exercises that adhere to these settings.)

 

Preset 3 introduces the 3/4 time signature and eighth notes. Ranges expand to an octave (with leaps of up to a third permitted). Basic Musicality is selected to achieve more natural-sounding exercises.

 

Preset 4 introduces sixteenth notes and syncopated eighth notes. Ranges and intervals expand slightly. Limited slurs, ties, single dynamics, staccatos, and accents appear in exercises.

 

Preset 5 introduces the 3/8 and 6/8 time signatures (along with corresponding quarter and eighth note patterns). Triplets, dotted eighth note, and sixteenth note patterns can appear in simple time signatures. Ties between measures are now allowed. Tenutos and multiple dynamics can now appear.

 

Preset 6 introduces the 2/2 and 9/8 time signatures. Generated exercises have the possibility of time signature changes. By default, exercises in this preset have six major keys and their relative natural minors. Mallet instruments can use rolls. Hairpins may appear.

 

 

Preset 7 introduces the 12/8 time signature and more complex compound rhythmic patterns. Leaps between notes continue to get larger. More articulations, slurs, and dynamics appear. Trills and grace notes start to appear. Suggested Musicality focuses on motives.

 

Preset 8 introduces the 5/8 time signature. By default, exercises in this preset select from nine major keys and their relative harmonic minors. Key changes, faster tempos, and longer exercises appear. Suggested Musicality emphasizes short phrases.

 

Preset 9 introduces the 3/2, 4/2, 7/8, and 5/4 time signatures. By default, exercises in this preset may use any of twelve major key signatures plus the relative melodic minor keys. Musicality focuses on the use of phrases and motives.

 

Preset 10 introduces maximum complexity with limited constraints on what can appear. For the ultimate randomized challenge, try turning off Musicality.