Piano sheet music comes in various forms. Regular staff score, lead sheet, and even just chord symbols with a word for the rhythm. Let's look at an example of each, discuss the differences, and briefly, how to play from each.
Regular Staff Score
Regular staff score for piano is usually written for treble and bass clef with a bracket at the beginning of each line, signifying both clefs are played by one performer. Often times, a duet will have two treble clefs for the first part, called the Primo, and two bass clefs for the second part, called the Secondo. Of course, all piano music can, and often does, change clefs.
This calls for a reading skill encompassing details of notes, rhythm, articulation, and expression in both hands simultaneously. Often times, all this is taught in what we refer to as the 'Classical piano' lesson.
Undoubtedly, the ability to play full detail in both hands is the strongest ability. From there, a person could learn to do most any other type of playing on the piano; as well as acquire many pieces of various styles.
Let's have a look at, and a listen to, a regular staff score for piano.
Regular Staff Score: Quiet Strength
Lead Sheet
Main melody in the upper voice, and chord symbols in the accompanying voice are what make up a lead sheet. When the lead line, or main melody, and the harmony are played in proper time with correct rhythm, virtually everyone listening that knows the song will recognize it. Personally, I really enjoy using lead sheets.
The rhythm is signified in a word or two at the beginning of the tune. Swing, Samba, Beguine, and Ballad are examples of rhythm.
Let's have a look at, and a listen to a lead sheet in Swing style.
Lead Sheet: Test Me
Just Chord Symbols
As with many things in life, the less detail given, the more freedom is implied. When it comes to playing piano sheet music from just chord symbols you need to have a grasp of harmony, different musical styles, and ear training. A good dose of music theory and improvising skill wouldn't hurt either.
Let's have a little look at, and a listen to, a piece with just chord symbols and a few words for style.
Just Chord Symbols: Arabian Scent
If you'd like some quick tips on getting sheet music visit the Sheet Music Online page.
In a hurry? Go to the Download Sheet Music page. You'll get brief assessments of three good sheet music websites with a link to each one.
I hope you find what you need, and have some fun along the way too.
