Play Piano by Ear vs. Reading Music

Playing by ear is the ability to hear a piece of music and play it without looking at sheet music. Reading music, of course, is the ability to “read” musical notes, rhythm and dynamics on sheet music, and play a piece accurately. These abilities may seem incongruent, but they actually require some of the same skills. Both have potential benefits for the pianist, and both should be cultivated.

Playing Piano by Ear 

Although some people seem to be born with the ability
to play by ear, most musicians spend time and energy cultivating this skill. To play by ear, one must first have a solid knowledge of notes and piano chords, and where they are found on the keyboard. A pianist then can visualize in his mind where the notes are on the keyboard as he listens to music. As he practices playing those notes by ear, he becomes more proficient. Fumbling around on the keyboard for the notes is a beginning, but is not the same as playing by ear. Pianists usually can hear and play the melody by ear before they can play the harmony.

Playing by ear is a useful tool for playing a popular song, or accompanying someone in a casual sing-along, but this skill alone does not make a complete music education. Even accomplished pianists can rarely play advanced pieces by ear.

Reading Music

A musician who has learned to read music can recognize each written note on the scale, as well as marks for cadence and dynamics. This process happens gradually, just as a young child slowly learns to read. Learning to read music allows a pianist to play any music within his skill level, even if he has never heard the piece. A pianist that can read music also has access to the composer’s original intent in terms of dynamics and tempo. As a pianist’s knowledge of music theory deepens, he can learn to sight read, which is the ability to read and play a piece of music fluidly the first time through.
Both skills are important for the well-rounded pianist. A pianist who can play piano by ear can easily adapt music to another key, for example. Being able to read music allows the pianist to play difficult classical pieces with precision and accuracy. Look for teachers and lesson programs that provide opportunities to master both reading music and playing by ear.