Interval reading: 2nds and 3rds

Why this matters

Reading by interval (shape) is faster than reading by letter name.

What you should be able to do

Play 12 short patterns of repeated notes, 2nds, and 3rds with no written letters.

Estimated focus time: 1.5h

How to practice this on your piano today

1. 1. From a beginner score, pick out every 'second' (adjacent line/space) and 'third' (skipping one).
2. 2. Play these intervals back from memory — fingers on adjacent keys for 2nds, fingers skipping for 3rds.
3. 3. Practice 'shape recognition': close eyes, partner taps your hand telling you a shape, you play it.
4. 4. Speed: aim to identify 12 intervals in 20 seconds.
5. 5. Re-read your method book's first piece — circle every 2nd and 3rd.