Aural or Ear Transcribing is a process whereby an audio source is sketched out on manuscript paper through repeated listenings. Often starting with a prominent line such as the vocal melody or bass, the music is fleshed out to include the full harmonies, further instrumental lines and lyrics.

 

Such projects have included a transcription of Paula Cole's song "The Ladder" for four-part women's choir with piano accompaniment (buy the score from Sheet Music Plus here) and Hazel O'Connor's "D-Days" for four-part mixed choir and keyboard.

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Recent ear transcriptions include Tones and I songs, "Dance Monkey" and "Johnny Run Away" (2019) and Stereolab's "One Finger Symphony" (from Chemical Chords, 2008).

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Arrangements made from existing printed sheet music include Burt Bacharach's "The Look of Love" for soprano and chamber ensemble, and a number of songs have been newly adapted for solo piano including The Beatles' "Michelle" and "Good Night", and Nancy Sinatra's "These Boots are Made for Walkin'".

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A related project was the request to add lyrics in transliterated Arabic (and original cursive Arabic) to Debbie Wiseman's song "No Wars Will Stop Us Singing". Individual performers of the Lebanese youth choir could consequently choose which line of lyrics to sing from, and together put in a hearty and moving performance!

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