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What is the Best Piano Tutorial App?Why MuseFlow Stands Out
Figuring out what the best piano tutorial app is for you isn’t that hard. You just need to answer a few key questions for yourself and you’ll be golden.
- Can you teach yourself how to play with the app?
- Is it a full curriculum?
- Are there any unique benefits to the app that you’d like to utilize?
Today, let’s talk about MuseFlow and what boxes it checks in regards to the three questions above. After that, you can judge for yourself and see if it’s the best piano tutorial app for you. Our guess is that it is 😊
Is MuseFlow Good for Autodidacts?
For those who don’t know, autodidacts are people who teach themselves new things without taking formal classes. They use their own resources, like books or online materials like apps, and are usually intrinsically motivated to learn on their own.
There are a lot of famous musicians who are autodidacts, and many talk about the need for flow state in their practice. If you’re not enjoying your practice, what’s motivating you to continue?
Traditional methods of teaching are restrictive to the teacher and student relationship. That may work for some, but for people who are interested in learning on their own and at their own speed, we need to make room for newer ways of learning that support the musicianship of some individuals that never had a chance with traditional lessons.
Enter MuseFlow: the piano education app that teaches how to play piano through sight reading - the act of reading music at first sight. No music educator has been able to do this because they’ve been restricted to written sheet music that’s inherently immutable. But with generative AI, MuseFlow is able to give you music you’ve never seen before, that’s at your level, and never repeats. You learn the new skill you want to learn in isolation first, then in the broader context of what you already know. After you play 95% accuracy over the course of 4 phrases, you beat the level! It’s like Duolingo but for piano education; bite sized skills you learn in flow, then you can apply it to actual songs that get unlocked and are put into your repertoire library.
MuseFlow is perfect for autodidacts that want to learn on their own. It enhances flow state, while allowing you to learn at your own pace. This new piece of technology makes room for new ways of learning and allows out-of-the-box thinkers to flourish.
Does MuseFlow Have A Full Curriculum?
A lot of piano education apps are one-offs that offer a specific thing and nothing else. Yes, there are a few that offer a full curriculum, but they are of the old ways of teaching. The classic “here’s a new skill, now go apply it to a song, then come back and we’ll check it off if it’s perfect, or make you go home and practice it again!”
This method of teaching is highly restrictive… you only learn that new skill in the specific context of that one piece of music!
With MuseFlow, you get to learn a new skill through interactive piano tutorials in the app, then apply it to music that is always changing. You learn the skill inside a myriad of musical contexts BEFORE you apply it to songs. That’s the key to MuseFlow’s success. And why it builds better musicians in the long run. Not to mention it’s just more fun this way!
MuseFlow currently has two sections in the app - the sight reading curriculum that teaches you new skills, and the repertoire library where you can apply the new skills to repertoire and songs. The founding team is currently working on the third section of the app - the exercise library. In that section you’ll be able to do deeper dives into the skills you’d like more practice on.
This three-pronged approach to music education has been seen in previous iterations of music ed, but not in this form because no one has thought or technology to use sight reading, flow state, and generative AI in this way to enhance the learning process for their students.
Are There Any Unique Benefits to MuseFlow’s Piano Tutorial App?
From what we’ve found, almost all other piano tutorial apps don’t have the benefits in the way MuseFlow does. They’re stuck in the old ways of teaching. MuseFlow revolutionizes the music ed process by putting the learning and practicing of a new skill inside more music than you’d every get from just one song. You’re playing 1,000+ notes each level! Where with just one song, you’re only playing about 50. And they’re the same notes and rhythms! Not every note and rhythm you already know as is the case with this piano tutorial app.
Along with this foundation comes a gamification aspect of MuseFlow that most music ed apps do not have. MuseFlow makes learning a true game. Not with artificial scores and stars, but with the feeling of actually learning something new. MuseFlow places you where your skill matches the challenge; the goldilocks zone of learning where you’re in the flow and being challenged just enough so that you’re engaged, but not so much that you’re frustrated.
This type of gamification is what video games do. They put you in a trance-like state where you forget what time it is and you just want to keep playing. This scratches that itch of the perfect challenge for the skill you currently have. This type of gamification isn’t prevalent in most music ed apps, but it is in MuseFlow. It’s not extrinsic motivation MuseFlow uses, but intrinsic motivation. The actual feeling that you’re acquiring a new skill and beating the game. The “oh my gosh I’m actually learning it! I’m really learning it!” feeling. And MuseFlow gives that to you over and over each level you beat.
Conclusion
With the advent of generative AI, MuseFlow capitalized on the ability to generate infinite music at the level you need to put you in a flow state: that perfect goldilocks zone where the challenge meets your skill level. With this core principle, this piano tutorial app helps autodidacts self-teach themselves how to play piano, is a full curriculum with repertoire that you can apply the new skills you learn to actual songs, and has many added benefits like flow state and sight reading that other apps don’t have. MuseFlow is the next generation of music education! Try it out for free for 7 days 😊
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How to Play a MIDI Keyboard
A MIDI keyboard is very much like a piano or digital keyboard - they both have the same keyboard layout, and they can both play that classic “piano” sound. However, a MIDI keyboard can do much more than just let you play the piano! In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits of MIDI keyboards and different use cases for playing them - DJs and music producers, composers, and finally music students.
Introduction
MIDI stands for Musical Instrument Digital Interface. It is the instrument that translates a musical keystroke into 0s and 1s so a computer can interpret your actions. MIDI keyboards, or MIDI-compatible keyboards, are used by DJs and music producers as their main sound producting instrument. You can load many different sounds onto it - a grand piano, a synthesizer, strings, whatever you’d like - hook it up to your computer, and play those sounds as part of a larger whole.
MIDI Keyboard for Producers and DJ’s
Producers and DJs write their music in any number of DAWs out there - Digital Audio Workstations.
Typically, they use a MIDI keyboard to quickly play out different parts of a musical arrangement.
Use Case for Composing an Indie/Pop Tune in Logic Pro X
Instrumentation:
- Drums
- Electric Bass
- Piano Synth
- Lead Guitar
- Horns
- Set the Tempo:
- Set the tempo (speed of the song) in your DAW (Logic Pro X) for how fast you want it to be.
- Record the Electric Bass:
- You look through a bunch of electric bass sounds and find that you really like the Liverpool Bass sound, so you upload that to your DAW.
- Start recording and play the MIDI keyboard in that sound to the tempo you’ve set.
- Experiment by recording several takes until you find a groove you really like.
- Lay Down the Drums:
- Choose a drum kit SFX that you like and that maps well to your MIDI keyboard.
- Record the drum part by playing the keys on your MIDI keyboard associated with the drums or cymbals you want to include.
- This will take some experimentation so be patient! Enjoy the cacophony that comes with this percussion instrument. you’ll soon find a pattern you love.
- Record the Piano Synth:
- Browse through the synth sounds in Logic and try out a few until you find one that fits the vibe of your song.
- Record some simple synth chords. Keep it understated… the goal is to fill out the sound without drawing too much attention.
- Record the Lead Guitar and Horns:
- Find samples of a lead guitar and horns that you really like.
- Load them into your DAW… they’ll map to your keyboard.
- Play and record these parts in time with the rest of the instruments to complete the arrangement!
If you want to add vocals to this piece, write lyrics and come up with a melody. Consider different structures for your song. Repetition is key here. We as humans like to hear things a few times so we can really understand it.
MIDI Keyboards for Composers
If you’re looking to compose something that someone else will need to play, you’ll need to write it down on sheet music. The process is very similar to what DJs and producers do, but instead of a DAW, composers usually write their music in music notation software. They use a MIDI keyboard as their main instrument.
Use Case for Composing a Classical Piece in Sibelius
Instrumentation:
- Strings (Violin, Viola, Cello)
- Flute
- Clarinet
- French Horn
- Timpani
- Set the Tempo and Time Signature:
- Open your music notation software (Sibelius) and set the tempo and time signature for your piece.
- Compose the String Section:
- Start with the strings (Violin, Viola, Cello).
- Choose a rich, warm string sound. Begin by notating the main harmonic structure with the Cello. Make sure there’s a solid bass line in there.
- Add the Violin melody, keeping it simple and lyrical. Then, fill in the Viola with harmony.
- All of these instruments will be on separate staves, so you’ll want to choose the orchestration template so you have all these instruments on one sheet of music.
- Experiment and Refine:
- Play back the string section to ensure it flows well. Make adjustments to the harmonies so it sounds good, then add dynamics, articulations, and phrasing to make it musical!
- Add Woodwinds (Flute & Clarinet):
- Add a Flute line… possibly doubling the Violin melody or adding a counter-melody.
- Introduce the Clarinet with supportive harmony or another counter-melody. Keep it light to complement the strings.
- Copy the dynamics you have for the strings. Make sure it all lines up nicely.
- Incorporate the French Horn:
- Notate the French Horn part. This adds warmth and depth to the harmony. The French Horn can also provide rhythmic support or reinforce the bass line with the Cello.
- Consider articulation here - A percussive articulation could be fun for rhythm, or a smooth, flowing articulation could be nice for a more lyrical interpretation.
- Compose the Percussion (Timpani):
- Add the Timpani to provide rhythmic structure and emphasize key moments. Keep it subtle; the Timpani is there to support, not dominate. Unless you want it to dominate :).
- Playback and Adjust:
- Listen to the piece with all the instruments together. Fine-tune the dynamics, articulation… balance between the sections to ensure each instrument's role is clear.
- Finalize the Score:
- Review the entire score, ensuring all notation is correct. Play along with it on your MIDI keyboard so you can be sure it’s exactly the way you want it to sound. Double-check that all dynamics and expression markings are consistent throughout the piece.
- Export and Share:
- Export the score as a PDF and, if needed, as MIDI or audio files. Share the sheet music with performers or collaborators!
MIDI Keyboards for Piano Students
Whether you’re a beginner or expert, there are piano learning software options out there for everyone. You can use your MIDI keyboard to learn piano. Let’s map the same process above to setting up your keyboard and computer and using one of the best piano learning software out there, MuseFlow.
Use Case for Learning Piano with MuseFlow
Equipment:
- Computer (laptop or desktop)
- MIDI Keyboard
- USB/MIDI Cable (compatible for both your keyboard and computer)
- Chrome or Edge Browser
- Set Up Your Equipment:
- Turn your computer is on.
- Connect your MIDI keyboard to the computer using your USB/MIDI cable.
- Make sure the cable is compatible with your keyboard and computer.
- Open MuseFlow in Chrome or Edge:
- Go to http://museflow.ai.
- Sign up for MuseFlow.
- Make Sure Your MIDI Keyboard is Connected:
- Go through the welcome flow and get to the roadmap.
- Try to play a few notes and make sure they come out of your speakers.
- If not, go to the settings and ensure that “device speakers” is toggled on.
- Choose a Level Where Your Skill Matches the Challenge:
- Find the level that fits your skill level.
- Look at the preview images of the music in the levels and see what you can play.
- Try a Few Levels:
- Go through the tutorial, and play along with the music.
- Start the level, and play through a few bars. If it’s too easy for you, try another level.
- NOTE: The first tier of each level is easier than the later ones, so you may want to play the full level to see if it’s a good place to start for you.
- Continue From There:
- Once you’ve found the level that’s right for your skills, go ahead and pass that level, then move on to the next!
- The tiers/levels should be fairly easy to start, then get harder as you go along.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a producer, DJ, composer, or music student, MIDI keyboards are the perfect instrument for you to play. See the above step-by-step guides to see how you can use your keyboard in each scenario. Keep rocking it, and we’ll see you on the next one!
Curious about whether MuseFlow is right for you? With a MIDI keyboard and a computer, you can try it out at beta.museflow.ai. We can’t wait to hear your feedback as we make music education available and engaging for everyone!
How to Refine Your Piano Skills with MuseFlow
Whether you’re an intermediate pianist looking to reach the next level or an advanced player aiming for perfection, refining your piano skills is a continuous and rewarding journey! With the right new tools and guidance, you can easily enhance your technique in 2024 with MuseFlow. It also helps you expand your repertoire, and deepen your musical understanding. Read below to find out how MuseFlow will help you refine your piano skills effectively.
Start using MuseFlow for free now!
1. Personalized Practice Plans
MuseFlow has the ability to create personalized practice plans tailored to your specific needs. The app uses advanced AI technology to assess your current skill level and identify areas for improvement. Based on this unique assessment, the best free piano app offers a customized practice schedule that focuses on really refining your technique and addressing any weaknesses.
Why it matters? Personalized practice plans really make sure that you spend your practice time efficiently. Instead of working on one generic exercise or song after the other (the old-school way), you’ll be focusing in on the areas that need the most attention, allowing for faster and more targeted improvement. This is the fastest way to learn at a higher pace.
2. Real-Time Feedback and Error Correction
Refining your piano skills requires immediate & accurate feedback on your performance. MuseFlow provides real-time feedback as you play, helping you correct mistakes and perfect your technique on the spot. The app carefully listens to your playing and, with AI, analyzes your notes and timing, offering instant corrections and suggestions for improvement.. AI has the power to find errors and patterns in your playing that a human wouldn't be able to find on the spot.
Why it matters? Real-time feedback helps you develop good habits and avoid reinforcing mistakes. This instant guidance is crucial for refining your skills, ensuring that you’re practicing correctly and making the most of your practice sessions.
3. Advanced Exercises and Techniques
MuseFlow offers a wide range of advanced exercises & techniques designed to challenge and refine your piano skills. From complex scales and arpeggios to intricate finger exercises and advanced pieces, the app provides a comprehensive set of tools to help you push your limits and achieve new levels of proficiency.
Why it matters? Access to advanced exercises and techniques allows you to continually challenge yourself and prevent stagnation. By tackling more difficult material, you can expand your technical abilities and enhance your overall musicianship...if you're still asking yourself, how do I refine my piano skills? Then you've found the answer.
4. Achieving the Flow State - You'll Love it
One of the key aspects of refining your piano skills is achieving a state of flow—where you are fully immersed and focused on your practice. MuseFlow is designed to help you reach this optimal learning state by providing just the right level of challenge. The app adapts to your progress, ensuring that each exercise is neither too easy nor too difficult, keeping you engaged and motivated.
Why it matters? Being in a flow state makes practice sessions more productive and enjoyable. When you’re fully engaged, you’re more likely to retain information and improve your skills. This goes for learning and refining any skill. MuseFlow’s ability to get you in this special state helps you get the most out of your practice time. You will love it! It will feel like time is just passing by without you noticing.
5. Extensive Music Library
The best piano lessons app has an extensive music library which is another powerful tool for refining your piano skills. The app offers a large selection of pieces across various genres and at every difficulty level. This really allows you to explore new styles and expand your repertoire. Thanks to AI this is now possible and will help you have more fun while learning. Each piece is accompanied by detailed tutorials and practice tips to help you master it.
Why it matter? A diverse repertoire is essential for any pianist looking to refine their skills. By playing a wide range of music, you can develop versatility and adaptability, which are crucial for advanced musicianship. MuseFlow’s library ensures that you always have new and exciting pieces to learn.
Conclusion
Refining your piano skills is a continuous journey. It requires dedication, the right tools, and effective guidance! MuseFlow really stands out as the ideal companion for this special journey, offering personalized practice plans, real-time feedback, advanced exercises, and a supportive community. Whether you’re aiming to perfect your technique, expand your repertoire, or achieve new and better levels of playing and sight reading, MuseFlow provides the resources and support you need to succeed.
Start refining your piano skills with MuseFlow today and experience the difference that advanced technology and personalized learning can make. We promise you will love it!
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