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foundation · Functional Ear Trainer / Gordon MLT

Scale Degree Sense

The core skill — identify any note's position relative to the key center

A key is established, then a single note plays. You identify which scale degree it is (1st, 2nd, 3rd...). This is the single most efficient ear training exercise according to research. Start with 1, 3, 5, then add 2, 4, 6, 7, then chromatic degrees.

How it works

  1. 1.
    Hear the key
    I-IV-V-I cadence + scale run establishes the key firmly.
  2. 2.
    Hear a single note
    One note plays within the established key.
  3. 3.
    Identify the scale degree
    Tap the degree: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 (expanding to b2, #4, b7, etc. at higher levels).
  4. 4.
    Sing from tonic to that degree
    Sing: do...up to the identified degree. This confirms your answer through vocalization.

Prerequisites

pitch_matching_basic

Cadence

~8 min · 6× per week · 12 weeks to competency
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