Anyone tried this?

[Rami]

I was wondering has anyone tried this ear training software program that I saw called "Reel Ear". The video on their website says that you can program it to play really simple or really complex melodies that you sing or play back. I'm new to playing guitar. Could this really work? Is ear training really important? It looks really cool, but I'm not sure...

What's your opinion?

Thanks.

-Rami

[mr dave]

it's a gimmick.

ear training isn't a bad thing but hardly necessary. having perfect pitch will not make you a better guitarist. practicing the instrument will.

[thomasracer56]

it helps connect guitar with another instrument, something treble(not talking bout program, but ear in general). by ear is great overall. sightreading, getting to know style, improving+improvising, you name it. after all, music was made for the ear, and somehow became economical. i remember in jazz band, i was doing rests of 11 measures. when i was the only trumpet to come in right, my teacher said that was the power of counting. the truth was that i had lost track accidentally and it was listening.

[mr dave]

Originally Posted by thomasracer56

when i was the only trumpet to come in right, my teacher said that was the power of counting. the truth was that i had lost track accidentally and it was listening.

i totally hear you

nothing has ever made me want to smash a guitar more than having someone try to force me to count while playing.

while i definitely agree that good listening skills are important i really don't think anyone 'needs' ear training. being able to distinguish between a Bb and a F# by ear is probably handy at certain times. but i really don't think it's ever necessary to know that you're hearing a Bb over an F# only that you're able to tell if it's either harmonious or atonal.

or have i been missing out for all these years???? hahah

[Necromancer]

Originally Posted by mr dave

it's a gimmick.

ear training isn't a bad thing but hardly necessary. having perfect pitch will not make you a better guitarist. practicing the instrument will.

That just about says everything in so many words 'Practice, then practice more', having perfect pitch & timing is like having good vocals or not, some people are born with it naturally, where others may have to spend alot more time and aquire more training & practice.
There is a time and place for everything, if it helps you personally to become a better musician, then by all means use it.
Theres nothing worse than a frustrated musician!