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We have been getting many post from different musicians who have different questions. Continue to send us emails and we will be quick to respond to your emails at:
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One of the many questions that we have been receiving is "How do I get started playing by ear?"
The best advice that we can give you is a few core ideas and tips to get started
1. Learn what music you would like to play
What ever interests you or facinates you as an upcoming musician is what will drive you to play by ear. There are many different types of musicians and there are different types of styles that musicians play. For example:
- If your a gospel musician your style would some R&B, Worship, Contemporary music
- If you a jazz musician you your style would be contemporary jazz or new jazz
Every musician is different whether your old school or new school. There are different styles to suit different musicians. However any and every musician can learn how to play by ear.
2. Listening
What style you would like to play you need to listen to the music. Whatever music you are into you need to listen to get a feel of what style you would like to take on.
Do you hear semi-tones, whole tones, diminished scales, major or minor scales?
These are the types of things you as a musician need to be aware of when you are listening. It may take you a few hours to a fews to grasp a lick, riff, or a hit in a piece of music.
One of my favourite books is
"The Secrets to Playing Piano By Ear" it teaches the many different ways to gain the building blocks to good ear training.
3. Pick out the key to the song
Picking out the key to the song is trial and error. The key to this is to have a great memory. If you don't have a great memory don't worry just hum it. Once you get skilled at picking out the key to a song. You won't be blindsighted when a singer comes to sing on the spot and you need to back them up with your music.
4. Learn the Melody
One thing that stands out in ever song that is ever sung is the melody. This is catches you to remember a song. If you can learn the melody you will be well on your way.
Tips For Finding the Melody
- Listen to the singer
- If there is a guitar on the song (in most cases they will play the melody)
- Listen to the piano player
5. Practice, Practice, Practice
To gain experience in the music you are playing you need to practice. Try setting aside some time in your busy scheduled day to practice. You will see how much better you are if you practice.
Set aside anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour to practice. Even if you can't learn a whole song in one day learn pieces bit by bit.
There are many things that you can practice. If you a piano player, trumpet player, guitar player, bass player start with the scales.
Scales are you best friend in music!
"The Secrets to Playing Piano By Ear" will show you many different things to practice.
Best Wishes and Happy Playing!!
BizModerator
If you have music question for us we will be glad to answer it send us an email at
businessandmusicadvice@yahoo.com