What is the main purpose of sight-singing exercises?

The main purpose of sight-singing exercises is to develop the ability to read and perform music at first sight. Sight-singing is an essential skill for musicians, particularly singers, as it enables them to take a written piece of music and accurately produce the correct pitches and rhythms without prior rehearsal. This ability is crucial in choral settings where singers must quickly interpret and perform new music. By engaging in sight-singing, students not only enhance their vocal technique but also strengthen their overall musicianship, including their understanding of music notation, intervals, and rhythmic patterns. This skill fosters greater independence and confidence in a musician's abilities, making it a foundational component of choral training.