The primary focus of this podcast featuring Sean Wilson (www.seanwilsonpiano.com) revolves around the concept that enhancing one's musical vocabulary is paramount for improving the ability to hear and understand music, rather than simply relying on ear training alone. I elucidate that many aspiring musicians mistakenly attribute their challenges in music comprehension to deficiencies in their auditory perception, when, in fact, it is their limited vocabulary that impedes their progress. By developing a more comprehensive musical vocabulary, individuals can significantly resolve a myriad of issues they encounter in their musical endeavors. Throughout our discussion, I provide insights into the importance of analyzing musical movements and identifying target chords, which ultimately fosters a deeper understanding of the music being played. This episode serves as an invaluable resource for those seeking to bridge the gap between performance and comprehension in their musical journeys.

Takeaways:

• The importance of developing a musical vocabulary cannot be overstated, as it directly influences one's ability to transcribe and understand music effectively.
• I discovered that teaching and breaking down music significantly increased engagement, demonstrating the demand for educational content in music learning.
• Many musicians erroneously believe that their inability to hear music correctly stems from their ear, when in reality, it is often a lack of vocabulary that hinders their understanding.
• Understanding the direction in which a musician is moving is crucial for grasping the context of their performance, rather than merely focusing on individual notes or chords.
• To enhance one's musical ear, one must prioritize expanding their musical vocabulary, as this foundational knowledge leads to a greater understanding of music as a whole.
• Transcribing music requires not only listening skills but also the ability to recognize and interpret musical structures, which improves with experience and vocabulary growth.

Links referenced in this episode:

• progression