Re: Playing by Ear

[Mudharp@xxxxxxx]

I can't comment on making no mistakes playing by ear although that's a good 
goal to aim for. But I do play by ear and mistakes are what I learn from more 
than anything else when it comes to "mapping" the melody in my head. Mistakes 
are instructive. I also find that humming, singing or whistling the melody is 
very valuable for imprinting the melody map in your consciousness so that it's 
readily available to reproduce when you play your instrument, whatever it may 
be. Even if it's a familiar tune, listen to it again and hear it anew, then 
hum the melody while it's fresh in the mind so that it resonates in your head. 
Then play by ear from memory and you're less likely to make mistakes -- if you 
make a mistake, sing or hum it again. Works for me, but mistakes come with the 
territory and shouldn't be a concern. They get worked out eventually. 

T. Albanese