play by ear

Definitions

1. 1

   To play guided by one's musical perception and intuition, rather than from a written…

   To play guided by one's musical perception and intuition, rather than from a written score.

2. 2

   To do by guessing, intuition, or trial and error

   To do by guessing, intuition, or trial and error; to react to events as they occur, often with risk of negative outcomes; to improvise.

   • If they ask for something we didn't prepare, we will have to play it by ear.
   • There over, hereunder / Or up above, don't wonder / We can always play by ear / But that's the deal, my dear

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