I can read music and sight read piano/keyboard, as well as choral scores, fairly well. I can not play by ear, but I can figure out melodies pretty easily without notation. Even then, I notate it so that I can preserve it and it makes it easier next time to play it.

I have transcribed songs by listening to them, but in the end, I want the notes in front of me. I'm one of those that it just doesn't come naturally...I have to work hard at it, and I'm not super talented, but do okay (folks tell me they enjoy the music I create). The notation may be my crutch, but until I can give up my day job and the evening honey do list, there's not a lot of extra time to learn and memorize a lot of music.

I wish I could play by ear, but I know my limitations and it's not going to stop me making music.

John

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