Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

play-by-ear

idiom

/pleɪ baɪ ɪr/

Definition

To perform music without reading written notes, relying instead on intuition and memory.

Examples

She learned to play the piano by ear, creating beautiful melodies without any sheet music.
He can play any song he hears on the guitar, as he plays by ear.

Meaning

The term refers to the ability to play music spontaneously or improvisationally, often suggesting a natural talent for music rather than formal training.