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I would like to start by saying the articles on this subject are useful for players of all levels. For if you have an open mind (and an open ear), you can even learn from a beginner.
I am fortunate enough to have made a living playing the piano and other keyboard instruments, for about 10 years on the road; from Alaska to Key West, Florida. I'd have to say that a good 90 percent of that time was intense ear training, and a LOT of improvising.

I am also lucky enough to be able to read sheet music, but as Nathan Smith mentioned in his article, it can be "tedious." It can also seem restrictive and time consuming depending on the music at hand. I would like to contribute my little bit of experience in this subject if I may, and I hope it is of use to some of us old timers and beginners.
As far as ear training, here are some essentials: If you play with others PLAY WITH A TUNED INSTRUMENT! Not just the piano, but everyone should be in tune. This is of course intended for the acoustic instruments, as most of the new digital keyboards out there are always in tune. The reason I stress this is, if you play with an out of tune instrument, you will have a tendency to listen with an out of tune ear, and in a sense- "hear the wrong note."
Also note that when the beautiful notes of a piano are played, the strings are being hit with a hammer. Much like hammering a nail. Both sounds (even though you'd much rather have the piano), are impact noises, which can cause your ear to become tired, leaving the impression again, of the "wrong note."
So that being said, learn to take a break if you have been playing at a substantial volume, especially in a room or hall that echoes.
One of the ways I used for learning the actual notes by ear, was to sit in another room and have another piano player hit a note, and I would try to identify it. I did this quite a bit, and it really helps. It of course will take time and practice, but after a while you'll cringe when you hear a note that's out of place.
As far as playing by ear, that can be accomplished in any style of music within your ability and preference when you learn the style's rules. Just as we know a limerick has five lines, a typical simple blues song has twelve bars, and basically three chords with a five note scale. (I'm keeping it simple).
Learning scales is a VERY useful tool also. While this can be one of the most boring exercises you do, it can open doors to all kinds of creative ideas. You'll really appreciate this valuable skill once you use it and discover its power.
In closing I would like to tell you that, although I never had formal lessons, I got the chance to hang around with some of the best players out there and they were kind enough to show me things that would have cost a fortune.So next time youhappen to hear that "great player," don't be afraid to go ask questions.
I hope this article will help out the next Art Tatum, or Duke Ellington. Who knows?

Learn more about this author, Mark Stafford.
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