Learning music by rote

In music education, few topics create as much conversation as rote learning, learning music by ear and memory rather than by reading written notation. Some teachers love it, others avoid it, and many students don’t even realize when they’re doing it!

At Music Makers Academy, we believe both approaches, rote and notation can work beautifully together when taught with purpose.

Here’s what rote learning really means, why it’s not always associated with classical music, and how it can help students become more confident, expressive players. And once you understand that, we’ll share three simple ways to practise more effectively, whether you’re learning by ear or from the page.

What Is Rote Learning?

Rote learning is one of the oldest ways humans have learned music. Before musical notation even existed, songs and instrumental pieces were passed down entirely by ear from teacher to student, generation to generation.

In a modern lesson, rote learning looks like this:

• The teacher demonstrates.

• The student imitates.

• Through repetition, the music becomes internalised and memorised.

Many folk and traditional music styles around the world are still taught this way — and for good reason.

Why Classical Music Doesn’t Use Rote Learning (As Much)

When we think of classical music, we often picture sheet music, rows of notes on a page. That’s because from the Renaissance period onwards, notation became essential to preserve increasingly complex works and share them across regions.

Over time, being able to read music became a defining skill for classical musicians. Rote learning never disappeared, but it took a back seat used mostly in early childhood lessons or in informal contexts.

Yet, in recent years, more educators are reintroducing rote learning as a valuable tool, especially for younger students or those who thrive with auditory learning.

The Benefits of Rote Learning

Rote learning isn’t a shortcut, it’s a different pathway into music. Here’s why it works:

1. It builds a strong ear.
Students learn to listen deeply to pitch, rhythm, tone, and phrasing instead of relying on visual cues.

2. It encourages expressive playing.
Without worrying about reading, students can focus on the sound and feeling of the music, often playing more musically.

3. It creates early success.
For beginners, especially those who struggle with reading, rote learning allows them to play real pieces sooner and feel proud of what they can do.

4. It strengthens memory.
Because the learning happens through repetition and imitation, it naturally improves musical recall and internalisation.

When Rote Learning Isn’t Enough

Of course, rote learning has its limits. Students who only learn by ear may struggle later with sight-reading or understanding notation essential for exams like AMEB or ABRSM.

That’s why we see rote learning as a supplement, not a substitute. It works best when used alongside notation, helping students develop a more rounded musicianship strong ears and strong eyes.

How to Practise Music More Effectively

Whether you’re learning by rote or reading sheet music, one thing remains true: effective practice matters far more than the number of hours you spend.

Here are three practical tips for making your practice time more productive and enjoyable:

1. Have a Focus (or a Goal)

Aimless practice doesn’t lead to progress. Every time you sit down to practise, decide what you’re working on:

• Learning the notes of a new piece

• Memorising a section

• Increasing your tempo

• Working on dynamics or expression

• Doing a full performance run-through

When you start with a clear goal, you’ll finish with a sense of achievement even after just a few minutes.

2. Choose Practice Strategies That Match Your Goal

Once you know what you’re practising, choose how to do it.

For example:

• If you’re learning notes, use repetition, slow practice, or listen to recordings to check accuracy.

• If you’re building expression, experiment with different dynamics, phrasing, or even imagine a story to match the music.

• If your aim is rhythm and timing, use a metronome or play along with recordings.

Your strategies should support your purpose not work against it.

3. Keep Practice Sessions Short (But Frequent)

Focused practice can be mentally demanding. Instead of long, exhausting sessions, aim for short bursts of high concentration around 15 to 20 minutes at a time.

Take breaks when your mind or body starts to tire. For younger students (or harp players holding posture!), this helps prevent fatigue and keeps motivation high.

Short, consistent practice throughout the week builds stronger habits and engages long-term memory more effectively than one long cram session.

The Takeaway

Rote learning reminds us that music is first and foremost an aural art, something we hear and feel, not just read.

But when combined with structured reading, goal-oriented practice, and teacher guidance, it creates the perfect balance: freedom, creativity, and skill.

So next time your child’s teacher teaches a piece by ear, embrace it. They’re not skipping notation, they’re strengthening musicianship from the inside out.

And when it’s time to practise, remember:

• Know your goal.

• Practise with purpose.

• Keep it short, focused, and joyful.

Because music isn’t about perfection it’s about progress, expression, and the love of learning. 💙