Different Methods of Learning Songs: By Ear vs. By Sheet Music
Learning songs on any instrument can be approached in different ways, but the two most common methods are learning by ear and learning by sheet music. Each method has its own benefits, and combining both can make you a more versatile and well-rounded musician.
1. Learning Songs by Ear
Learning by ear involves listening to a recording and figuring out the melody, chords, and rhythms without relying on written music. This method is often quicker for those familiar with their instrument, and it improves aural skills, making you more attuned to intervals, harmonies, and rhythmic patterns.
- Ear Training Benefits: When you learn by ear, you engage your ear to recognize intervals and musical phrases. The benefit of this approach is that you tend to retain the song longer. Your ears are constantly engaged in identifying notes and patterns.
- Avoiding Brute Force: Many beginners attempt to brute-force their way through a song by guessing individual notes. Instead of guessing, focus on listening intently and understanding the intervals between the notes. Try to feel the relationship between each note. As you progress, challenge yourself by transposing bits of the song into different keys, paying attention to how the intervals sound in each key.
2. Learning Songs by Sheet Music
Learning from sheet music requires reading musical notation. This method helps you improve sight-reading skills, which is essential for professional musicians in settings like orchestras or studio work.
- Sight Reading Skills: Learning from sheet music helps develop the ability to quickly interpret written notes and rhythms, an invaluable skill in many musical scenarios. The process is often slower but ensures you learn the exact notes and rhythms as written.
- Precision: Sheet music ensures you play the song as intended by the composer. For genres like classical music, following written notes precisely is critical.
3. Combining Both Methods
A balanced approach to learning music involves both methods. By learning songs by ear, you strengthen your internal sense of music, and by learning from sheet music, you improve your ability to read and perform complex pieces.
Final Thoughts
Both methods have their place in a musician’s toolkit. Whether you prefer learning by ear or through sheet music, each method helps develop unique skills that will make you a better musician overall.
