Key Based Ear Training Versus Interval Based Ear Training

Key Based Ear Training Versus Interval Based Ear Training

Q: Thanks for the quick reply. My experience counters your theory: After practicing resolving to the tonic I was able to eventually eliminate this step in my identification of the note. I have also done some interval based ear training, and it really helps my recognition of some of the intervals (the ones that I have gotten down so far) in the key-based method.

Lastly, I’m very interested in your books but I couldn’t find the answer on your website to why key-based is superior to interval based.

A:  A little confused by your email. On one hand you state that in your experience you have been able to use resolving to the tonic as a pre-step to mastering the identification of notes in a key based exercise. I’m assuming you wouldn’t write this unless you used your resolving crutch, have now discarded it, and have the ability to recognize all pitches instantly within a key center. If not then one would wonder why you would say such a thing. Therefore I’m assuming that you aren’t misrepresenting your ability and have mastered Ear Training One Note recognition within a key. This leads me to the question of why you are contacting me with a question about it’s superiority. It would seem logical that you already know it’s ability.

Your comment on how much interval based ear training has helped you in your recognition of sound when music is being played goes against what every student I’ve ever had has reported. I’m glad to hear it’s working so well for you. And I can only wish you the best with your continued work in that area. If you find later on that your abilities weren’t quite what you thought you might try some of the books I recommended. On the other hand if you want to give me your true detailed background on your ear training abilities, the problems you are having I’d be glad to communicate with you on how my books might help you.

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.