Ear training in beginner instrumental lessons

This paper describes ear training lessons with flute students aged 8 to 11. As part of an experiment, sixteen beginner flute students receive four months of targeted ear training in their individual instrumental lessons. The following four aspects are particularly emphasised: 1) hearing intervals, 2) playing music from memory, 3) recognising programme music, and 4) hearing sounds/playing sounds. The results of the tests from the experimental group compared with a control group clearly show that it makes perfect sense to include ear training more systematically in beginner instrumental lessons. A welcome side effect is that many students who are taught to listen consciously not only develop a great joy in free playing, but also, with appropriate guidance, in organised improvisation.