Crossword Genius

Nearly has musical perception (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ear

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'musical perception' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both related to thinking as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps there's a link between them I don't understand?

'nearly has' is the wordplay.
'has' indicates a hidden word.
'EAR' is hidden within 'nearly'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for ear that I've seen before include "Van Gogh missing body part" , "Go astray" , "Musical ability" , "cut" , "Organ inside heart" .)

I've seen this clue in The Mirror.
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