Classically Trained Musicians Learning Ear Training

Classically Trained Musicians Learning Ear Training

Q:  I’m 18 and I have played classical piano for 4 years. But my ear isn’t good and now it doesn’t improve. I started to study contemporary keyboard, rock, jazz, fusion 4 months ago. I don’t improve much because I don’t know how I can study it. And I find it’s hard to transpose music on a keyboard. I can hear one note sol-fegio but it is very slow. I can’t use it when I’m playing. I wish I can play music not from sheet music and play it well. Yesterday, I saw my friend who is only 17, he played keyboard very well. He can play many songs without sheet music and he plays it without mistake. His listening skills must be good. Could you help me?

A: I would start with two books. Ear Training One Note Complete and Fanatic’s Guide to Ear Training and Sight Singing to develop your ear. You should also get the book Music Theory Workbook for All Instruments. This will help to develop your theory which will help you when you transpose music. I would also read all the FAQs for these two books on the www.muse-eek.com Web site. Also remember to be patient with yourself when you do the ear training it won’t happen overnight.

It is also recommended that you read Bruce Arnold’s Blog at his artist site. It contains more discussion of the musical topics found in these FAQs as well as other subjects of interest. You will also find the “Music Education Genealogy Chart” located here which shows you the historic significance of the music education products found on the Muse Eek Publishing Company Website.