​There is a natural order of language learning - listening, imitating, speaking, reading then writing.  We believe music is most successfully taught the same way and this is why we begin our youngest students with folk songs. Folk songs contain the phonemes of musical language.  

1. Toccata and Fugue in D minor - The piece by J.S. Bach has been used in films from Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, Fantasia to Monty Python’s Meaning of Life and is arguably the most famous macabre composition ever written.  You can check out our easy piano tutorial on it here!

 The debate over in-person learning this Fall is in full force. Red and blue counties are at odds with each other, teachers are terrified, parents are confused, not many ask how the kids feel. Virtual learning is presented as a bandaid, an inherently worse and temporary option. Instead of focusing on how to make schools safe - something which seems to be a near impossibility - why aren’t we focusing on how to make virtual education better?

If you're looking for a way to pass the time that's engaging and educational check out our recommendations for music related learning apps.  These are perfect for long car rides and the occasional quarantines. 

1. Note Rush: Simple and effective. Build your note reading skills as you play through the levels. The app hears what you play. https://www.noterushapp.com/​

2. The Most Addicting Sheep Game for iOS: Great game to develop feeling for rhythm. Indeed addicting and hugely valuable. https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-most-addicting-sheep-game/id550921301

3. Dustbuster for iOS:  Think Rockband for beginning keyboard skills. There's some free content but requires a subscription.  https://apps.apple.com/us/app/piano-dust-buster-by-joytunes/id502356539

4. Flash Note Derby for either Android or iOS: A replacement for traditional flashcards. Great to use when you're not at a piano.  https://apps.apple.com/us/app/flashnote-derby/id453126527

5. Rhythm Swing for either Android or iOS. Great way to practice reading rhythms with cool animations. 
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/rhythm-swing-fun-rhythm-drills-for-kids/id1007346233

6. LOOPIMAL for iOS. Inspiring game that develops creativity for music and programing. Great for any age to create their own music. https://apps.apple.com/us/app/loopimal-by-yatatoy/id964743113

7. Minimood Model D Synthesizer: For students interested in learning about synths and sound design this app is tons of fun. https://www.moogmusic.com/products/minimoog-model-d-synthesizer-app

8. iKaossilator from Korg: Incredibly cool app for creating your own electronic music. Great tool to learn all kinds of interesting scales as well. https://www.korg.com/us/products/software/ikaossilator/