Learn perfect pitch in 15 years

Original Article ↗ Hacker News Discussion ↗

Definitions and Misconceptions

  • Repeated distinction between:
    • Absolute/perfect pitch (AP): instantly naming any heard pitch without a reference, across sources (instruments, environmental sounds).
    • Relative pitch (RP): identifying intervals and keys once given at least one reference note.
  • Several commenters argue the article mostly describes highly trained RP or “pseudo-absolute” pitch, not “true” AP.
  • Others counter that abilities exist on a spectrum, not a binary, and that learned AP-like skills should still count functionally.

Trainability and Critical Period

  • Many claim robust AP cannot be acquired in adulthood; studies to train AP past early childhood are reported as largely unsuccessful.
  • Others point to:
    • Earworm research suggesting many people can recall songs in correct keys above chance.
    • Children trained early (e.g., under six) who appear to acquire AP.
  • One view: adults mainly develop strong pitch memory anchored to known songs, keys, or instruments, not innate AP.

Practical Value vs. Drawbacks

  • Several musicians say AP is mostly a party trick; RP plus a reference note covers nearly all practical needs (transcription, arranging, sight-singing).
  • Others list benefits:
    • Faster reading, transcription, composing away from an instrument.
    • Quickly identifying keys and chords.
  • Downsides frequently mentioned:
    • Constant awareness of out-of-tune pianos, ensembles, recordings, DJ tempo changes.
    • AP “drifting” with age or with frequent exposure to non‑440 standards, leading to distress.

Training Approaches Discussed

  • Interval training (using well-known melodies for each interval).
  • Associating keys/notes with familiar songs and building key-based playlists.
  • Singing/choral work as powerful ear training.
  • Practicing tuning by ear with a tuner as feedback.
  • Opinion divided on whether such methods create “real” AP or just excellent RP.

Context: Timbre, Language, and Neurology

  • Instrument-specific “pitch recognition” often tied to timbre and kinesthetic feel (e.g., clarinet, cello).
  • Discussion of Japanese pitch accent and Mandarin tones as analogous pitch-learning challenges.
  • Noted correlations between AP and autism; some see AP as akin to synesthesia-like perceptual differences.

Tuning Systems and Microtuning

  • Thread notes that A=440 and 12‑tone equal temperament are conventions, not universals.
  • Some criticize equal temperament as harmonically compromised and point to microtonal systems and just intonation; others remain unconvinced of their practical musical superiority.