Aural skills such as relative pitch, which allow musicians to have a precise understanding of and command over the differences in pitch that constitute one of the central elements of music, are developed through relative pitch training processes. These skills are useful to any musician, but for violinists and other string players they are absolutely essential.

In order to play with others, musicians need to be certain that they're in tune with the rest of the group. On the violin, as well as other stringed instruments such as the viola, cello, upright bass or fretless bass guitar, this means being able to find that precise spot for each note. This in turn requires a skilled ear, which is attained through ear training. Without it, a violinist is in danger of playing off-pitch.

Playing in an orchestral setting requires an especially good command of pitch. Relative pitch will allow a musician to match his or her pitch to the rest of the orchestra despite the varied pitches that different types of orchestras can employ. For example, in standard concert pitch, the A is played at 440 hertz, but a baroque orchestra may play at A=415 Hz, and other specialized orchestras may use other pitches. This may seem difficult, but with ear training, a violinist can learn to adapt with ease.

Solo violinists can benefit significantly from ear training as well. Relative pitch means having the ability to identify intervals precisely, which is crucial to competent violin playing. Without a good command of pitch, a violinist is liable to be all over the place and unwittingly drift away from the original, intended pitch.

Of course, violinists will also get the same benefits from ear training as any other musician. Ear training is useful for anyone with an interest in composition, as it will provide a musician with the skills necessary to express the sounds in his or her mind. Aural skills will also give musicians the assurance that, when they want to play a note, they can play it, which is necessary for anyone interested in jazz or any other form that involves improvisation. Additionally, ear training will provide the ability to accurately transcribe music.

So, erelative pitch is helpful in a variety of ways. This is especially true for violinists, who really can't get far without it. If you play the violin, or are thinking of starting, ear training will make it possible to truly master the instrument.