Ear Training, Volume II: Twelve Basic Interval Sounds to Master [With] CDs : Book Review

"Ear Training Volume II" written by Elvo S. D'Amante is a comprehensive guide that focuses on the development and refinement of one's musical ear. Building upon the concepts introduced in the previous volume, this book offers a more advanced approach to ear training.

D'Amante provides a systematic and progressive series of exercises designed to help musicians train their ears to recognize intervals, chords, scales, and melodies. These exercises are thoughtfully crafted to be challenging yet accessible, and they cover a wide range of musical styles and genres. The author's practical and intuitive approach ensures that readers can directly apply their newfound ear training skills to their musical practice and performance.

One of the biggest strengths of "Ear Training Volume II" is the inclusion of various instructional aids. The book comes with accompanying audio tracks that allow readers to listen and practice along with different examples and exercises. This auditory component greatly enhances the learning experience by providing a real-life context for ear training. Additionally, the book contains detailed explanations and instructions, making it easy to follow along and understand the concepts being taught.

Readers will also appreciate the author's emphasis on integrating ear training with other musical skills. D'Amante highlights the importance of ear training in relation to sight-reading, improvisation, and overall musicianship. This holistic approach ensures that readers develop a well-rounded musical ear that can be applied to various musical contexts.

"Ear Training Volume II" is an invaluable resource for musicians of all levels who are looking to enhance their musical perception and become more proficient at listening. D'Amante's clear and systematic approach, combined with the accompanying audio tracks, make this book a practical and engaging tool for any musician dedicated to improving their ear training skills. Whether one is a beginner or an advanced musician, this book is sure to provide valuable insights and exercises to expand and refine their musical ear.

What are readers saying?

"Ear Training Volume II" by Elvo S. D'Amante has received a variety of opinions from its readers. Some readers praised the book for its comprehensive approach to ear training and the helpful exercises provided. They found the exercises to be extensive and challenging, leading to an improvement in their auditory perception. The thorough explanations were also commended for simplifying complex concepts.

However, not all readers had a positive experience with the book. Some felt that the instructions in the book lacked clarity and that the material was presented in a disorganized manner, making it difficult to follow. These readers believed that the book did not provide sufficient support for beginners and that the exercises were too advanced for those just starting their ear training journey.

The layout and formatting of the book were also points of criticism for some readers. They found the layout confusing and suggested that clearer headings and subheadings would have been beneficial. Additionally, a few readers mentioned that the text was dense and could have been easier to navigate with the inclusion of more visuals or examples.

Despite these mixed reviews, many readers agreed that "Ear Training Volume II" is a valuable resource for individuals seeking to enhance their ear training skills. They found the exercises to be beneficial, and with perseverance, believed that the book could help improve their musical abilities. However, it is important to note that some readers found the book less accessible for beginners due to the lack of clear instructions and organization.