Can I Work Out the Notes of Songs by Ear?

This is a question many of our students ask. Instrumental learners often want to work out and play their favourite songs without depending on sheet music.

Some people show an early aptitude for playing by ear, reproducing simple melodies on stringed or keyboard instruments without formal lessons or knowledge of notation. This involves hearing and sensing relationships between notes. Although often described as an inborn ability, it can also be trained and developed to a degree.

Instrumental teaching commonly includes notation, the written language of music. It lets us put melodies on paper and read them back. As you learn to play from notation, practise scales and expand your repertoire, you begin to recognise similarities between melodies. Your ear develops alongside this experience. Progress depends on disciplined learning and familiarity with your instrument. With patience and regular practice, you can enjoy discovering the skills you have gained.

Onur Severgün
Rekor Sanat – Guitar Teacher