play by ear

The phrase "play by ear" typically means being able to play a musical instrument without reading sheet music or following a written score. It refers to the ability to listen to a piece of music and recreate it on an instrument by relying on one's musical knowledge, auditory perception, and understanding of melody, harmony, and rhythm. It involves understanding the structure and patterns of music, being able to reproduce melodies and chords accurately, and improvising based on what is heard. Playing by ear is often considered a valuable skill for musicians, as it allows for more creativity and adaptability in playing music.