Essential Elements of Ear Training for Contemporary Audio Engineers

Presenters:
Jason Corey, University of Michigan - Ann Arbor, MI, USA
Kazuhiko Kawahara, Kyushu University - Fukuoka, Japan
Sungyoung Kim, Rochester Institute of Technology - Rochester, NY, USA
Doyuen Ko, Belmont University - Nashville, TN, USA
Sean Olive, Harman International - Northridge, CA, USA
Timothy Ryan, Webster University

Since 2011 workshop panelists have enthusiastically shared their experiences for efficient and effective methods of critical listening and technical ear training (AES 131st, 132nd, 141st, & 143rd Conventions). We are experiencing new technical ear training tools and observing how fast those tools are evolving for recent audio technologies. Do we need a paradigm shift in technical ear training and critical listening for future listeners? What are the essential elements for the training of today’s junior audio engineers and students? In this workshop, panelists will consider the aforementioned questions. In addition, additional topics will be discussed, including (but not limited to): (1) influence of sound stimuli and associated influence on training performance; (2) verbal elicitation of spectral modification; (3) beyond spectral ear training: spatial, dynamic, and more; (4) a case study: longitudinal analysis of last decade’s ear training data; (5) features required for future auditory training; and (6) gamification. The workshop will demonstrate listening and training examples. While the workshop aims to provide the attendees with a chance to experience theoretical and empirical matters of ear training programs around the world, it also aims to consider the importance of “listening” in the current video-oriented society.