Can a Computer Really Teach You How to Play the Piano?

Well, maybe not the computer alone, but partnered with the right software you could be well on your way to realizing a dream you thought had passed you by. Piano software has come a long way in recent years to becoming a viable option in the study of music. Many options are available including software that comes with its own keyboard/MIDI controller to having a choice between CD/DVDs or a digital download of the same product. A new feature with the better software programs is online enhancements ranging from technical support and forums, to digital downloads of bonus songs and lessons. There is something for everyone and for everyone’s schedule too!

Learning to play the piano, or any musical instrument, requires persistence and enthusiasm to make your dreams reality through solid lessons, practice, and an experienced teacher. These products can stand alone for the novice wanting to learn to play for their own enjoyment or as great complements to those studying with private teachers. And just like with our products in the Learn Piano Online Review, with these software programs you have some excellent choices that don’t have to be confined to a private teacher’s proximity and price.

Reasons to choose Piano Software include:

• Take lessons in your own home and on your own schedule
• Progress at your own pace
• Choose a product right for you – classical or jazz or chord methods
• Save money with one product vs. weekly private lessons
• Master additional skills
• Experience piano lessons at a great price while deciding if the piano is for you

Piano Lesson Software: What to Look for

Why do you want to study the piano? Do you want to be able to play popular tunes while amazing your friends, brush up on piano skills you didn’t master yet, or learn to improvise with chord methods? These valuable self-assessment questions will help you determine the product that is right for you. If you don’t find it here, check out our Learn Piano Online Review where you will even find an online private teacher who will personally work with you as you master the piano.

If you desire a product that is all inclusive – meaning it provides the keyboard and software – and is great for children through adults, we suggest our top rated program Piano Wizard. For an excellent, visually appealing chord method product geared for the older student, try Learn & Master Piano. It is also a great product for children when used with private teacher or parent supervision. Rounding out our top three is Rocket Piano, a comprehensive set of piano lessons available as traditional software or online. The other products reviewed will guide you from chord and pop to even some classical tunes at great price points.

Lessons
The best products will have a solid foundation in technique and theory to aid you in learning to read music. There are several approaches to master this art, either starting with chord methods or by learning traditional notation methods first. Both systems will get you there, the choice is yours. Find a method that will help you transition easily from playing on a MIDI device at the computer to performing on a piano in any setting.

Features
Additional features such as play-along tracks, printable worksheets, or audio/video tutorials can make or break piano lesson software. The best software lessons offer a healthy set of features that aren't just bells and whistles, but significantly add to the overall learning experience.

Practice Tools
Accompaniment tracks, multi-track practicing options, metronomes, glossaries, and interactive games are just a few features that will enhance your progress. Look for the features that are most important to you before purchasing your software.

Ease of Use
Installing the software or downloading the product from a website should be easy to understand and manage. Configuring your keyboard or MIDI controller with your computer should be quick and convenient.

Help &Support
Unless you are a computer genius, it is essential to have a good technical support system to contact when there is a glitch in the software or even your computer. Unfortunately, it is just a matter of time before you’ll need some help in this department so make sure you aren’t sacrificing good support for a bargain basement price. Rocket Piano is a product that offers solid support (via email) and a good product for an excellent price.

There is no true shortcut to mastering any skill, but the adage ‘practice makes perfect’ certainly applies to learning the piano. Whether you choose piano software based on exciting, visually stimulating games or chord methods utilizing familiar tunes, we have the product that will get you playing and performing the piano to your personal satisfaction! Be sure to also check out our articles on learning the piano. At TopTenREVIEWS We Do the Research So You Don't Have To.™