Runedog,

I believe it takes more than site to play by ear. I have played saxophone for forty + years. Guese I'v played in every sh.. house in Baltimore at one time or other and never had a lesson. When I took up the horn I was 22 years old and never expected to play in front of anybody much less make any money.
I just love the sax. As it turned out I've played along side some of the best.I was inducted into the Baltimore musicians Hall of Fame in 2005.

I have always dabeled with the keyboard , I had a Dx7 when they first came out. I had a drum mechine and various moduals but never expected to play out. About five years ago I picked up a used psr 8000 and began working the nurseing home circute. I am now the proud owner of two TYROS 2'S,doing 15 or so jobs a week plus, every Thursday at a water front Tiki bar.

Getting back to your original question. My youngest son ( one of four) wanted to play the saxaphone so bad. He took lessons in school was in the school band and was a good reader but as soon as the sheet music was gone he could not play a note. I worked with him tirelessly but he just could't get it. So I think anyone can learn to play music but it takes a special gift to play by ear.

Regards,

Jim