Nine Best Apps for Kids Who Love Music
You’ve probably been introducing your children to music since they were born—singing to them; give them a toy xylophone (and then hide it when it drives you crazy); play your favorite songs in the car. Sometimes this exposure creates deep love and enthusiasm that needs more outlet than you can provide. If your kids (or you!) want to take their musical abilities to the next level, here are nine apps that can help.
Perfect ear
For those who want to learn auditory recognition or sight reading, Perfect Ear ( iOS / Android ) offers exercises to use these abilities. Users can also learn basic music theory and even train their ears. However, the app will not teach you how to play a musical instrument. Most of the app is free to use, but some additional features require a purchase to unlock.
Koala Sampler
If you have an aspiring DJ at home, he can make some beats using Koala Sampler ( iOS / Android) . Users can record audio from their device or a library of files and chop it up, turn it into a sound effect, or even transform it into something new. At $4.99, it’s definitely cheaper than two turntables and a microphone.
Dream piano
Dream Piano ( iOS / Android) is less of a tutorial and more of a simple music game in the vein of Guitar Hero . Users tap notes to play pop/rock, anime, and classic songs. It won’t teach you how to play the piano, but it can help you learn to appreciate those who do it well. The only downside to this app is the constant advertising, but you can pay a small fee to remove it and add new music.
My singing monsters
Players of this popular game ( iOS / Android) can create songs and melodies by breeding monsters on the island and connecting them together to create a melody. Users must care for the creatures and act as the conductor of their monster orchestra. The game has now become a franchise for multiple platforms, but you can play it for free if you don’t mind the ads.
Blossom
Not to be confused with apps with similar names that have nothing to do with music. This generative app ( iOS) from Brian Eno (best known for practically inventing ambient music and producing U2’s best work) and Peter Chilvers allows users to create melodies by placing their fingers on the screen. Each touch creates a soothing piece of art to accompany it. You can change the tone of the music to suit your mood or let the app take control when you want to take a break. At $3.99, it’s cheaper than subscribing to a meditation app and just as calming.
SMUL
With an extensive library of songs and vocal effects, the SMULE app ( iOS / Android) brings you a karaoke bar, but without that musty beer smell and that annoying guy who sings Barry Manilow every week. The app allows users to create a network of friends or, in some cases, even perform a duet with the original artist, and there’s an on-screen pitch guide and tutorials to help you improve your vocals. The app is free, but you must purchase a subscription to access some of the app’s features.
BandLab
BandLab ( iOS / Android) gives users the tools they need to get started creating music, from adding vocals and backing tracks to pitch correction, mastering and distribution. Users note that the controls are intuitive, which allows beginners to quickly get used to it.
Notes teacher
There are many mnemonics for learning notes on a scale. If you don’t want to keep saying, “Every good boy deserves a fudge” so you know which key to press, Notes Teacher ( iOS) can help you learn to read music. There is a Learn mode with 32 lessons that will gradually make it easier for users to understand the notes. Practice mode allows you to choose between treble and bass clefs and choose which notes you want to practice.
Neverdibox
Incredibox ( iOS / Android) combines a music learning tool with a game like My Singing Monsters. Players assemble a team of beatboxers to create a mix of songs. Since it teaches music to users, the app has been adopted for educational use in schools. You can try it out for yourself online before paying $4.99 for the app.