Work out by ear how to play pieces of increasing complexity

Demonstrate how to play melodies or bass lines by ear in different keys. For the bass guitarist, transposing a melody or bass line that stays in one position and does not require open strings is a relatively straightforward activity. Ask learners, therefore, to transpose melodies or bass lines with wide leaps and challenging intervals.

Ask learners to practise playing a familiar piece, e.g. ‘Happy Birthday’, in a variety of keys.

Ask learners to make up some variations on well-known tunes by ear, using a range of melodic and/or rhythmic patterns.

Ask learners to work out by ear some possible harmonies for well-known tunes.