Smartphone and tablet applications are playing an increasingly significant role in the modern classroom. The technology allows students to learn in an interactive way that differs drastically from the traditional methods of studying textbooks and listening to lectures. As with many of the standard school subjects, children can learn music though quality apps. Listed below are six excellent smartphone and tablet apps that teach kids about music. 1. MiniPiano Great for ages 4 and up, MiniPiano is available on both the Android and iPhone, as well as the iPad and iPod Touch. This app converts the device’s screen into a virtual touch piano, with 128 different midi instrument sounds for the user to choose from. Depending on the screen size of their device, children may be able to use five to 10 fingers at a time to play a song. Tunes created within the app can be recorded and exported as a WAC or AAC file or used as a ringtone. Overall, MiniPiano is a simple app for learners of all ages to navigate and encourages students to experiment with notes and simple songs. 2. Crayola DJ Crayola DJ gives children the ability to mix their own music on an interface that resembles a colorfully designed, kid-friendly DJ setup. By following a simple tutorial, children learn to use 90 different musical tracks in five genres of music to create their own songs. Eight additional buttons provide DJ effects like tempo sliders, crossfaders, and other sounds to add to a child’s mixes. Users can also place their fingers on the app’s turntables to scratch while their songs are playing. In addition, Crayola DJ offers a game mode where children can DJ in front of a virtual crowd to earn points. The app is designed for children between the ages of 6 and 10 and is available on both Android and Apple products. Crayola DJ is a winner of the Parents’ Choice Fun Stuff Award and was given a seal of approval by the National Parenting Center. 3. LoopimalFeaturing an intuitive, wordless user interface, Loopimal relies on animations of animals like birds, sloths, octopi, and pigs to teach kids aged 4 and up about music composition, melody, and rhythm. By rearranging a sequence of shapes below an animal’s picture, children can create loops of musical tones and make the animals dance. Multiple animals and their loops can be grouped together to create multi-instrumental songs. There are no right or wrong answers in Loopimal, and the app is meant to encourage creativity and musical experimentation. All music within the app is played in the key of C-major. Loopimal is compatible with Apple products. 4. JoyTunes Recorder MasterJoyTunes Recorder Master is a fun game with an interactive component that goes beyond the screen. Taking advantage of the fact that many kids are taught to play the recorder in school, the app requires kids to play their instrument to control the game. Different stages within the game require students to practice different techniques and skills on their recorder, including timing, higher-lower tones, finger placement, and breath control, in order to complete levels. The app features more than 100 levels and also includes an in-app virtual recorder that children can play if they don’t have access to a real recorder of their own. 5. Music with GrandmaMusic with Grandma invites children to explore a broad range of musical education topics through games, educational videos, and interactive virtual instruments. Guided by the Grandma character, the user works their way through seven different games that teach different music skills. The games include activities like matching a sound to the instrument, connecting a maze of musical notations, and even a “find the note” game that teaches kids to identify notes on a music staff. Music with Grandma was designed for young musicians aged 6 and up, and requires some literacy in order to benefit from the more educational content. However, younger kids can easily play along with some support from a parent. 6. Monster ChordsMonster Chords is meant for children interested in learning to play the guitar or ukulele. Like JoyTunes Master Recorder, Monster Chords requires a child to play his or her instrument in order to interact with the app. It’s designed to make practice more enjoyable through games. Throughout the app’s 30 levels, children attempt to lure shy, friendly monsters out of a dark forest by playing chords in time with the app’s music. When the child plays the right chord, the monsters move closer to a campfire, while mistakes cause the monsters to retreat back into the forest. Songs that Monster Chords users learn to play include familiar classics like “Mary Had a Little Lamb” and “London Bridge Is Falling Down,” along with some of the app’s more modern, original compositions. The game is available for both the iPhone and iPad for free in the app store, though parents must pay a monthly fee to unlock the higher levels. Comments are closed.
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Photo used under Creative Commons from Marina K Caprara