Melodic Analysis & Ear Training: “Mary Had a Little Lamb”

Functional melodic analysis & ear training for “Mary Had a Little Lamb” using Solfege

Before you begin: how to use these studies…

Listen to Frank describe in depth how to use these studies!

1. Read, play, listen, and sing/hum along…


2. Use your piano, ears, voice, and knowledge of music theory to 1) figure out the key center and tonality (major, minor, mixolydian, dorian, blues, etc) and 2) analyze the melody using Solfege


3. Scroll down to check your work…

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Notice that Do is not the first note in the melody!

(Yes, Frank is not a vocalist!)

4. Play and sing the Solfege syllables aloud–slowly enough to allow the unique sound-feeling of each syllable to seep into your mind’s ear. Working on your ears in this active way will pay enormous dividends in your ability to read, transpose, play by ear, and improvise– guaranteed!


Extra Credit. Use your knowledge of Solfege to play “Mary Had a Little Lamb” in a few other keys.


learn more… Melodic Analysis & Ear Training: “Ode to Joy”