Ear Training!

The internet is home to a wealth of musical resources, and Ricci Adams' website, www.musictheory.net , is one of my favorites.

The interval ear trainer is highly recommended, at least in my book.

http://musictheory.net/trainers/html/id90_en.html

Here's a quick guide to help you get the hang of it.

Start with just a few

The check marks next to each interval name can be selected, or deselected, effectively removing the interval from the lineup. Start off easy, say, with a unison, minor 2nd, and major 2nd. Work your way up from there. On the flip side, you can throw yourself in the deep end, and learn as you go.

Check the mode

You'll notice, on the right hand side of the screen, a button labeled "Play Mode" with two notes on it. Clicking this changes the position of the notes. If they're lined up vertically, they're harmonic intervals - played at the same time, that is. If they're not lined up, they're melodic intervals - notes played in succession. A third option has both.

For me, the melodic option is easiest, but the harmonic choice is most applicable to real-world situations. Read: chords.

Get a feel for 'em

Let's say you want to learn to recognize minor 3rds. Uncheck all the other intervals, and use the "New Interval" button to cycle through random minor 3rds to get a feel for what they sound like.

Check your progress

Mouse over the bar graph graphic on the right side of the screen for a progress report.

Do it

This program is free, so you have no excuse not to use it. So use it!