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I took some lessons as a kid but trained myself by ear. I…

“I took some lessons as a kid but trained myself by ear. I did it the way jazz musicians used to learn years ago, which is to play records and slow them down to figure out the notes. At first I tried to imitate Red Garland, who was my favorite jazz pianist.” quote by Donald Fagen
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“I took some lessons as a kid but trained myself by ear. I did it the way jazz musicians used to learn years ago, which is to play records and slow them down to figure out the notes. At first I tried to imitate Red Garland, who was my favorite jazz pianist.”

Donald Fagen

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Self‑directed learning through listening and slow‑down practice builds deep musical intuition.

In simple terms: Learning by ear and slowing recordings.

Key Takeaway

Practice listening and dissecting music.

Themes

self‑learning music practice

Mood

inspirational practical

Type

educational musical

When to use this quote

  • musician training
  • personal development

Key Concepts

Ear training cognitive skill development

Questions to Reflect On

  • What are benefits of ear‑based learning?
  • How does this compare to formal instruction?
A Different Perspective

May lack formal theory foundation.

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