Play Music by Ear - from Beginner to Fluency from Udemy

What's inside

Learning objectives

Make the connection and internalize your sense of rhythm, melody and harmony
Learn and play popular songs without reading music

Discover the underlying building blocks of music

Make the connection and internalize your sense of rhythm, melody and harmony
Learn and play popular songs without reading music
Discover the underlying building blocks of music

Syllabus

Introduction

In this video I will be briefly describing what will be happening in the different sections of this course.

The studen will be able to make a connection between their footsteps and counting to four

We will begin to make the connection between walking and counting in a four beat pattern

We will continue the walking exercise while adding the word "and" between the numbers

In this lesson we will incorporate the left hand into the rhythm pattern

In this lesson we will incorporate all of our limbs to play a complete pattern while counting

We will take everything we have learned so far and demonstrate how it works on the drums

In this lesson we will listen to the bass part of a song to help us find where beats 1-2-3-4 are.

We will listen to chord on the piano to help is find where the beats are

We will listen to different element of music ; bass line, drums, chord changes, and melody to help find the beats

We will focus on the vocals of a well known song to see where the beats are

We will listen and discover musical phrases.

We will incorporate all the lessons so far and play a rhythm pattern while music is playing

We will continue from the previous lesson and again play a rhythm pattern while (different) music is playing

In this lesson I describe the difference between Pulse and Rhythm

In this lesson I will explain and give musical examples of music in different time signatures

In this video we will be learning how to use an egg shaker

In this lesson, I will give a definition of what a "pitch" or "note" is.

In this lesson we are introduced to listening and singing techniques to help find a note.

In this lesson we use a tuner to help us find notes and sing in tune

In this lesson we learn how to sing between a high and low note and tell the differance.

This video contains a test in which the first note can be higher lower or the same as the second note.

This is an additional High- Low test, if the first test was easy, then you can skip this.

In this video we will be learning the names of the notes on the keyboard.

We will learn about octaves.

In this test the answers will be either:

High (meaning the first note is higher than the second)

Low (meaning the first note is lower than the second)

Same (both notes are the same)

Octave up or down (the notes are an octave apart, please indicate if it is higher or lower)

You will learn how to figure out and play a song just with your ears

We will find two notes in a sequence

In this test you will tell the order of the notes I play. You will need to discern which note is High- Medium and Low

Low (the lowest note of the group)

Medium (the note between the low and the high)

High (the highest note in the group)

an answer could look like this: Low - High - Medium

In this lesson we will find a sequence of three notes.

I will discuss what elements make up a key, it's purpose and will include supplemental documents for the 12 keys.

Time to figure out another children's song by ear, this time in a couple different keys.

Happy Birthday!

Description of harmony and chords

The I IV and V chords are used in a song

In this lesson we look at how to play this song in different keys using chord and melody numbers instead of note names.

We will listen to chord progressions while singing along

We will discover how to find the first note of a song

A continuation of the previous lesson

We are introduced to a new chord! the minor 6 chord is a passing chord which is used in 1000's of popular song.

In this lesson, I demonstrate how the same chord progression is used in a variety of song. The purpose of this lesson is not to learn the songs but to open your ears to harmonic motion. (fancy for chords)

I will play all the (four chord) songs as a medley with the same pulse.

In this test, each chord will be played two times, please answer either "Major" or "Minor"

In this lesson we will learn hot to find the key to a song.

I will introduce the song we are going to learn.

In this lesson we will figure out the Key and Chords of the verse, by ear.

In this lesson we will learn the chords to the chorus, by ear.

In this lesson we will figure out the Melody of the chorus, by ear.

We will learn how to play the melody of the verse and pre-chorus, by ear.

I play the entire song with a lyrics sheet

In this final video I give a few pointers on playing by ear.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Combines rhythm, ear training, and basic music theory, which provides a holistic approach to learning music by ear

Focuses on practical skills like finding melodies and chords, which allows learners to quickly apply their knowledge to playing songs

Emphasizes learning popular songs without reading music, which caters to those who prefer a more intuitive and less academic approach

Includes lessons on identifying intervals and chord qualities, which are essential skills for developing a strong musical ear

Requires learners to have access to a piano or keyboard, which may be a barrier for some beginners without access to these instruments

Draws on the tradition of teaching music by ear, which may not suit learners who prefer a more notation-based approach

Reviews summary

Mastering music by ear fundamentals

According to learners, this course offers a highly effective step-by-step method for learning to play music by ear, particularly benefiting absolute beginners. Students praise the unique approach that connects the ear, voice, and body to music through practical exercises, such as using walking for rhythm and singing to find notes. The logical structure, moving from rhythm to melody to harmony and then to learning simple songs, is frequently highlighted as a strength. However, some reviewers found the harmony section felt rushed or less detailed compared to earlier parts, and a few noted that the promise of 'fluency' might be overstated for tackling complex musical pieces, suggesting it's best suited for building a solid foundation and playing simpler familiar tunes by ear.

Better for basics than complex songs.

"It promises 'fluency' but provides only a basic introduction to finding simple songs."

"Not suitable for someone with some musical knowledge looking to truly master playing by ear complex pieces."

"It's a decent introduction but doesn't deliver 'fluency' as promised."

Instructor explains concepts well.

"The instructor's teaching style is calm and clear."

"Instructor is encouraging."

"The instructor is knowledgeable..."

"The instructor is clear and easy to follow."

Develops pitch and interval recognition.

"The melody section with ear training exercises is challenging but effective."

"It really helps build that connection between hearing and playing. I appreciated the use of familiar songs."

"I have some prior musical background but wanted to improve my ear. The course provided solid exercises for pitch and interval training."

"Learning to hear intervals and find notes by ear is a game changer."

Practical approach connecting ear, voice, body.

"This course is absolutely fantastic! ... The step-by-step approach, starting with rhythm using walking and clapping, then moving to finding notes with your voice and piano, feels so natural."

"As a complete beginner, this course was perfect. The pace was just right in the beginning, and the exercises using walking and singing were fun and effective."

"This approach is exactly what I needed. Learning to hear intervals and find notes by ear is a game changer. The course structure is logical..."

"This course changed how I think about music. Instead of relying on sheet music, I'm learning to trust my ears and voice. The exercises are clever and effective."

Pace felt rushed or lacked depth.

"I found the harmony section a bit rushed compared to the others; I felt like I needed more practice examples there."

"However, as the course progresses into harmony and finding chords, it becomes much more theoretical..."

"The theory behind chords was explained, but the transition to practical application felt a bit weak."

"The harmony section was interesting but could be more detailed or offer more complex examples for non-beginners."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Play Music by Ear - from Beginner to Fluency with these activities:

Review Basic Music Theory

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Reinforce your understanding of fundamental music concepts like scales, key signatures, and intervals, which are essential for playing music by ear.

Browse courses on Music Theory

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Review the circle of fifths and key signatures.
Practice identifying intervals by ear.
Study basic chord construction (major, minor, dominant).

Read 'The Complete Idiot's Guide to Music Theory, 2nd Edition'

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Gain a solid understanding of music theory concepts to better understand the underlying structure of the music you're trying to learn by ear.

View Music Theory Note by Note: Your Guide to How... on Amazon

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Read the chapters on scales and key signatures.
Study the sections on chord construction and harmony.
Complete the exercises at the end of each chapter.

Interval Recognition Practice

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Improve your ability to identify musical intervals by ear, a crucial skill for transcribing melodies and understanding harmony.

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Use an online ear training tool to practice interval recognition.
Start with simple intervals (major and minor seconds, thirds, fifths).
Gradually introduce more complex intervals (sevenths, octaves, tritones).
Practice daily for at least 15 minutes.

Four other activities

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Transcribe Simple Melodies

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Develop your ear training skills by transcribing simple melodies, reinforcing your ability to identify notes and rhythms.

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Choose a simple melody (e.g., a nursery rhyme or folk song).
Listen to the melody repeatedly and try to identify the notes.
Write down the notes and rhythms you hear.
Check your transcription against the original melody.

Read 'Ear Training for the Contemporary Musician'

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Deepen your understanding of ear training techniques and exercises to further develop your ability to play music by ear.

View Keeping the Ancient Way: Aspects of the Life... on Amazon

Show steps

Work through the exercises on interval recognition.
Practice identifying chord qualities (major, minor, dominant).
Try the melodic dictation exercises to improve your transcription skills.

Create a Chord Melody Arrangement

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Apply your ear training and harmony knowledge to create a chord melody arrangement of a song you like, combining melody and chords into a single performance.

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Choose a song you enjoy and can easily hum the melody.
Figure out the chords to the song by ear.
Create a chord melody arrangement, combining the melody and chords.
Practice playing your arrangement until it sounds smooth and musical.

Practice Ear Training with a Friend

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Reinforce your ear training skills by practicing with a friend, testing each other on interval recognition, chord identification, and melodic dictation.

Show steps

Find a friend who is also interested in ear training.
Take turns playing intervals and chords for each other to identify.
Dictate simple melodies for each other to transcribe.
Provide constructive feedback to each other.

Career center

Learners who complete Play Music by Ear - from Beginner to Fluency will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Music Teacher

A music teacher helps students develop their musical abilities through instruction and guidance. This course helps you to discover the underlying building blocks of music and internalize your sense of rhythm. By learning how to connect your voice and ears to find notes on any instrument, including the piano, you build a foundation for teaching others. Furthermore, understanding harmony and how chords work, which you can learn from this course, is essential for any music teacher. The course's focus on playing popular songs without reading music aligns with modern teaching methods that emphasize practical application and enjoyment of music.

See salaries and explore the career path for Music Teacher

Songwriter

Songwriters craft original music and lyrics. This course can allow you to internalize rhythm and understand how chords work, both crucial for songwriting. By connecting your voice and ears to find notes, you can develop melodies more effectively. The course’s emphasis on learning and playing popular songs without reading music is also helpful for understanding song structure and arrangement. If you are interested in songwriting, this course helps you in ear-training and the connection between your ears, voice, and body to music.

See salaries and explore the career path for Songwriter

Accompanist

An accompanist provides musical support for singers or instrumentalists. An accompanist typically works alongside a performer. This course helps develop the ability to play chords and melody at the same time, which is essential for accompanying. It also helps build your understanding of harmony, which is important for creating supportive and complementary musical parts. The ability to learn and play songs without reading music ensures that an accompanist is adaptable and quick to learn new material. This course helps you discover the underlying building blocks of music.

See salaries and explore the career path for Accompanist

Music Director

Music directors oversee the musical aspects of a performance or production, such as in a theater. They need a strong understanding of music theory and performance practices. This course helps you discover the underlying building blocks of music and understand harmony. Learning how to connect your voice and ears to find notes on any instrument can help guide and instruct musicians. The course makes music your lifelong companion by connecting your ears, voice, and body to music.

See salaries and explore the career path for Music Director

Arranger

Arrangers adapt existing musical compositions for different instruments or ensembles. This requires a deep understanding of harmony, melody, and rhythm. This course helps you internalize rhythm and understand how chords work, which are essential for arranging music and it helps you discover the underlying building blocks of music. The emphasis on learning and playing popular songs without reading music is also valuable for understanding song structure and arrangement techniques. In this course you can make music your lifelong companion by connecting your ears, voice, and body to music.

See salaries and explore the career path for Arranger

Pianist

Pianists perform solo or as part of an ensemble, playing a wide range of musical styles. This course helps you connect your voice and ears to find notes on the piano and internalize rhythm. Understanding harmony and how chords work, as taught in the course, is essential for any pianist. The focus on playing popular songs without reading music will broaden a pianist’s repertoire and improve their ability to learn new pieces quickly. You can learn and play popular songs without reading music.

See salaries and explore the career path for Pianist

Session Musician

Session musicians are hired to play on recordings or in live performances. This role often requires the ability to quickly learn and perform music in various styles. This course can help you internalize rhythm and connect your voice and ears to find notes, allowing you to learn music more quickly. The ability to play chords and melody at the same time helps you to be versatile in studio settings. The step-by-step process taught will help you in learning the rhythm, melody, and chords of any song.

See salaries and explore the career path for Session Musician

Choir Director

Choir directors lead and train vocal ensembles. This course may help to develop your understanding of harmony and melody. Learning how to connect your voice and ears helps refine your ability to lead vocalists. The ability to play chords and melody simultaneously may also be useful when leading rehearsals. The course may help you to discover the underlying building blocks of music that will make you into a strong choir director.

See salaries and explore the career path for Choir Director

Musical Instrument Retailer

Musical instrument retailers sell instruments and accessories to customers. This course may help develop a deeper understanding of musical concepts. Internalizing rhythm and understanding how chords work may help you assist customers with their musical needs. Learning to play popular songs without reading music may also allow you to demonstrate instruments effectively. The course may help with discovering the underlying building blocks of music.

See salaries and explore the career path for Musical Instrument Retailer

Music Journalist

A music journalist writes about music for publications or websites. The ability to understand and analyze music is essential. This course may help you discover the underlying building blocks of music and understand harmony. Internalizing rhythm and learning how to connect your voice and ears to find notes may also help you analyze music more effectively. The course may allow you to develop the aural skills needed for detailed musical analysis.

See salaries and explore the career path for Music Journalist

Audio Engineer

Audio engineers record, mix, and master audio for various media. While technical skills are paramount, a musical ear is also helpful. This course may allow one to internalize their sense of rhythm and understand harmony. Connecting your voice and ears to find notes may help with critical listening skills. The course may help you discover the underlying building blocks of music.

See salaries and explore the career path for Audio Engineer

DJs select and play music for audiences, often blending tracks together seamlessly. While primarily a technical role, understanding music theory can be beneficial. This course may allow you to internalize your sense of rhythm and understand harmony. Learning to play popular songs without reading music may broaden your musical knowledge. The goal is to follow the step-by-step process to learn the rhythm, melody, and chords of any song.

See salaries and explore the career path for DJ

Podcast Producer

Podcast producers oversee the creation of podcasts, including content development, recording, and editing. While not always necessary, a musical background may be beneficial, particularly if the podcast involves music content or sound design. This course may help one to internalize their sense of rhythm. Also, connecting your voice and ears to find notes may help with editing audio. The goal is to follow the step-by-step process to learn the rhythm, melody, and chords of any song.

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Talent Scout

Talent scouts seek out new musicians for record labels or management companies. Because of the course, the student may discover the underlying building blocks of music and internalize their sense of rhythm. This course may help connect their voice and ears to find good talent. The ultimate goal is to learn how to find and play a melody by ear.

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Music Therapist

Music therapists use music to address patients' physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs. This role typically requires a master's degree and board certification. This course may assist a music therapeist with discovering the underlying building blocks of music and internalizing one's sense of rhythm. Connecting your voice and ears to find notes on any instrument may help you to improvise music for therapeutic purposes.

See salaries and explore the career path for Music Therapist

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Play Music by Ear - from Beginner to Fluency.

Music Theory Note by Note

Save

Provides a solid foundation in music theory, covering essential concepts like rhythm, melody, and harmony in an accessible way. It's particularly helpful for beginners who want to understand the underlying building blocks of music, as emphasized in the course. The book's clear explanations and practical examples make it a valuable resource for internalizing musical concepts and connecting them to playing by ear. It serves as a good reference for understanding the theoretical aspects behind the practical ear-training exercises.

Music Theory Note by Note: Your Guide to How Music...

Kindle Edition

Keeping the Ancient Way

Save

Comprehensive guide to ear training, specifically designed for contemporary musicians. It covers a wide range of topics, including interval recognition, chord identification, and melodic dictation. The book includes numerous exercises and examples to help you develop your aural skills. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to improve their ability to play music by ear and understand the underlying structure of music.

Keeping the Ancient Way: Aspects of the Life and...

Paperback

Play Music by Ear - from Beginner to Fluency

What's inside

Learning objectives

Syllabus

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Reviews summary

Mastering music by ear fundamentals

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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