Several unique terms and phrases describe the features of software we review on this site, some easier to grasp than others. This list briefly defines terms relevant to Piano Lesson Software.

Ratings

Ease of Use

The software should be easy for beginners and experienced computer users alike.

Feature Set

Piano lesson software should have extras including lessons with variable difficulties and the ability to connect with an external musical keyboard.

Ease of Installation

The software should be easy to install and use.

Lesson Coverage

A breakdown of the lesson topics and what you can expect to learn by using the software.

Practice Options

How well the software helps you spend your time as effectively as possible, including the tools provided by the software.

Help/Support

Piano lesson software should come with both a built-in help system and good online support, including resources like FAQs, email support and automatic updates.

Features

Lessons with Video

Instructional videos featuring a professional pianist.

Lessons with Audio

The lessons have sound so you can hear how the piece should be played.

Student Tracking

The ability to track multiple students via a progress chart, so the whole family can learn independently.

Make Printouts

The piano lesson software allows you to print out the sheet music that comes with it.

User History Reports

The program tracks either the results of every piece practiced, the amount of time spent on each lesson or the scores on tests and games for each user. This information is then stored for you to view.

History and Trivia

The software includes background information on some of the musical compositions.

Keyboard Compatible

The piano lesson software supports the use of an external musical keyboard.

Import Sheet Music

The ability to import sheet music via a scanner for later use in the piano lesson software.

Pieces by Famous Musicians

The software comes with musical selections composed by famous musicians that you can access, listen to and practice.

Glossary

A list of musical terms comes with the program.

Number of Lessons

The number of lessons provided in the software.

Number of Songs

The number of songs provided in the software.

Lesson Coverage

Teaches Proper Fingering

Instructs you on the proper way to position your hands and fingers on the keys.

Teaches You to Read Music

Step-by-step instructions on how to read music.

Teaches Arpeggios

he software has lessons specifically designed to teach arpeggios, musical notes of a chord played in rapid succession.

Teaches You to Play by Ear

Gives techniques for acquiring the ability to discern notes by ear and then play the notes without ever seeing them.

Teaches Rhythm

The software has lessons specifically designed to teach rhythm.

Teaches Technique

The software has lessons specifically designed to teach proper technique.

Teaches Two-Handed Playing

The software includes lessons designed to teach you how to play with both hands simultaneously.

Teaches Scales

The software has lessons specifically designed to teach scales.

Teaches Music Notation

The software has lessons specifically designed to teach music notation.

Teaches Chords

The software has lessons specifically designed to teach chords.

Teaches Sight-Reading

The software includes lessons designed to teach you how to sight-read.

Teaches Intervals

The software includes lessons designed to teach intervals.

Practice Tools

Mixer

You can see and practice the notes for each hand separately and then combine and practice them both simultaneously.

Metronome

An instrument that maintains a steady beat to make exact time in music. The speed of the beat is determined by the tempo of the song.

Interactive Feedback

The program provides feedback on your performance to correct any playing errors.

Repetition Loops

A feature that allows you to select any number of bars from a song to listen to and practice only them.

Tempo Adjustment

You are able to change the tempo for any piece of music.

Accompaniment

The option of playing a piece of music with accompanying synthesized musical instruments.

Scoring System

The program will score your performance.

Compose Music

The software has a built-in studio for composing and arranging your own musical pieces.

Record and Play Back

The ability to record and listen to your performance with the program.

Interactive Games

The program provides games designed to incorporate learning and entertainment. These games will score your performance.

Music Tracking as You Play

The notes will be displayed on your screen and a tracking tool will indicate what note to play and when.

Multi-Track Recorded Audio

This is a playback option of piano only, voice only or both at once.

Help/Support

Phone Support

Piano lesson software should have a telephone contact number. The phone support should not charge a fee, offer a toll-free number and have convenient business hours. A fax number is also convenient.

Manual

A printed manual should contain important, relevant information that makes using the software easier and more enjoyable.

FAQs

Some piano lesson websites offer FAQs (frequently asked questions).

Tutorials

Tutorials should clearly demonstrate how to use the software.

eMail Address

Software companies should provide an easy-to-find email address to use when contacting them.

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