Mastering an instrument is much more than just learning to play it. You probably know how important it is to understand music theory, but are you aware of the importance of ear training? Indeed, learning to listen to music and picking out the notes, rhythms and harmonies without looking at the notes can enhance your playing greatly.

Here are some of the best tips to help you with your ear training.

What Is Ear Training and Why Should You Care?

Ear training is also known as aural training and it is a crucial skill for any musician. The focus is on training your musical ear and to allow you to pick specific notes and melodies from the music without looking at the note sheet. It is also an effective way in picking out the different instruments used in songs.

There are many reasons why it is important, but the main thing is how it helps you with your own playing. You can learn new songs a lot quicker when you don’t need to rely on just staring at the notes, but you can trust your ear to tell you the right chords. It’s also a valuable skill when you want to start transcribing music and improvising in your playing.

Mix Between Harmonic and Melodic Interval Training

There are two main aspects to ear training: harmonic and melodic interval training. You should focus on both of these aspects and by mixing them around in your practice sessions you can guarantee to have more progress – and fun!

With the harmonic interval training the notes you hear are played simultaneously and you are supposed the pick out the harmony you hear. On the other hand, in the melodic interval training the focus is on the melody, with the notes being played one after the other.

Find Online Lessons

A quick way to start with ear training is to find online lessons. There are some fantastic apps, for instance, you can download to your phone and start practicing. You could even make your own little audio files by recording yourself playing different notes and harmonies. Once you have them on the computer, create a playlist and just put it on shuffle!

Practice with Others

It’s also a good idea to find someone to practice ear training with. This way they can play the notes and the harmonies, while you play it back to them. If you don’t get it right have them play it one more time.

Sing the Intervals

One of the simplest ways to master interval training is by including singing to your sessions. Whether or not you are going to become a singer doesn’t matter, you just want to create that note in your head by actively participating in the things you hear.

When you are practicing harmonies or melodies, sing the notes after you hear them. Once you’ve mastered the singing, it is much easier to start hearing the notes in songs and even while you play your chosen instrument.

Make sure you incorporate your ear training to your music lessons. Try to transcribe songs you hear and learn the chord progression by ear as well. It will greatly enhance your skill set.