Overview
This lecture outlines a step-by-step process for learning how to figure out melodies by ear, focusing on memory, mapping, scale degrees, and practice.
Step-by-Step Process for Figuring Out a Melody by Ear
- Memorize the melody by singing or humming it until you can recall it easily.
- Map the melodic contour by noting how the notes move up or down and by how much (step, leap, large leap).
- Draw the contour if it helps visualize the melody’s shape.
- Slowly sing the melody without rhythm to identify or feel any known scale degrees, especially the tonic (home note).
- Mark possible scale degrees on your contour map as you recognize them.
- Use music theory and the positions of known degrees to deduce any remaining unknown degrees.
- Sing the melody again, checking if the degrees you’ve marked match the feeling of each note.
- Use a real instrument to verify your answers: play a random note and identify which scale degree it is relative to the tonic.
- Adjust guesses and repeat as needed until you are confident of all degrees.
- Once the tonic is identified, apply your degree map to play the melody in the correct key.
- Check if the played melody matches the original; analyze and learn from any mistakes.
- Strengthen connections by alternating between listening, singing, and singing along while keeping degree numbers in mind.
Practice and Improvement
- Regular practice reduces mistakes and speeds up the process, allowing real-time identification of scale degrees in melodies.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Scale Degree — The position of a note within a scale, often labeled with numbers.
- Tonic — The “home” note of a key, the most stable note where melodies resolve.
- Melodic Contour — The overall shape of a melody as it moves higher or lower in pitch over time.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Practice memorizing and mapping a melody by ear.
- Try the process with a new song (see provided links in the description).
- Review mistakes to reinforce learning.
- Alternate between listening, singing, and playing while tracking scale degrees.