Harmonic Ear Training
Harmonic ear training focuses on sounds played simultaneously rather than sequentially. It teaches you to hear the 'texture' and 'color' of dissonance and consonance.
Melodic vs Harmonic Hearing
When notes are played one after another (melodic), you can easily measure the distance between them. When played together (harmonic), the soundwaves physically interact, creating a new, blended texture.
Harmonic ear training requires you to stop trying to hear the individual notes, and instead focus on the feeling of the combined sound.
Levels of Dissonance
In harmonic interval training, group the sounds by their dissonance:
- Harsh Dissonance: Minor 2nd, Major 7th, Tritone. They sound like they are grinding or clashing.
- Soft Consonance: Major 3rd, Minor 6th. They sound sweet, romantic, and sad.
- Open Consonance: Perfect 4th, Perfect 5th, Octave. They sound hollow, pure, and vast.
Practicing Chords
Chords are the ultimate harmonic test. Use BananaTone's Chord mode to practice hearing three or four notes simultaneously. Focus entirely on the emotional impact: is it bright (Major) or tense (Diminished)?
Ready to practice?
BananaTone is a free, fast ear training app. No sign-up required — just open and start practicing.