Playing by Ear
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2022-02-17
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The Oxford Handbook of Music Performance, Volume 1
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Oxford University Press (OUP)
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Melbourne Conservatorium of Music
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Haston, W. & McPherson, G. E. (2022). Playing by Ear. McPherson, GE (Ed.). The Oxford Handbook of Music Performance, Volume 1, (1), pp.172-191. Oxford University Press (OUP).
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Abstract
There are significant and long-lasting benefits when beginning instrumentalists are exposed to a sound-before-sign approach. Likewise, refinement of play-by-ear skills by experienced, proficient musicians can enrich their musicality and lead to benefits for other performance skills including playing by ear, playing from memory, sight-reading, and improvising. Improving play-by-ear skills improves all forms of performing, as musicians use inner hearing to build an aural database through the use of mental and aural imagery while playing by ear. A mental warehouse of aural templates and mental tools allows for more efficient processing of music visually, aurally, and kinesthetically. We support an integrated model of instrumental performance that is significantly enhanced by developing one’s abilities to play by ear. This approach fosters connections between eyes, ears, and fingers and allows musicians to advance their skills more efficiently and effectively to become more responsive performers. A versatile twenty-first-century musician is able to meet the demands of performing varied musics in varied contexts. We make specific recommendations for implementing playing by ear as a technique for contemporary practice.