Tip:
Highlight text to annotate it
X
How to plan for fast ear training progress
Rather than ask the question "how long does ear training take" (which can have no satisfying
answer!) the best approach is to think in terms of what you want to be able to do in
music. Then figure out what kind of ear training will help you build that ability.
Set concrete goals and then (this is key) break them down into manageable milestones.
For example, if your goal is "I want to play basic chord progressions by ear" you might
decide that ear training on chords and chord progressions is what will help you most. Your
milestones might be things like: Identify major and minor triads. Identify common chord
cadences. Identify progressions using the I, IV and V chords. Then introducing the vi
chord and more complex progressions, and so on. Keep the milestones manageable, and the
goals meaningful.
Just as with any musical ability, developing your skill will take time. Improving your
listening skills through ear training is really a process of training the brain, and that
requires some repetition over time to adapt!
Consistency is key: aim to practice every day. To stay motivated, find ways to keep
your practice varied and interesting, and connect it to your world of music.
Remember: Don't see it as a one-off sprint! Ear training
is a key part of your musicianship, and as long as you are learning music you should
be seeking to improve your ears.