Work out by ear how to play pieces of increasing complexity

Demonstrate how to play melodies by ear in different keys. Initially, let learners take the most natural key and then transpose to another.

As an extension activity, encourage learners to play a well-known tune in a ‘difficult’ key and note the problems that need solving.

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

Help learners to internalise both melodic and harmonic elements by ear.

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.