Music Resources

1. MusicTheory.net

MusicTheory.net is a FREE, web-based platform that provides a wealth of music theory resources. Accessible on both desktop and mobile devices, it offers:

• Comprehensive Learning Modules: Covering everything from basic note naming to advanced harmonic analysis.
• Interactive Exercises: Practical application of concepts with exercises on note naming, interval recognition, and key signature identification.
• Customisable Practice: Tailor exercises to your level and focus on areas needing improvement.
• Accessibility: Learn anywhere with an internet connection. Perfect for long car journeys!
• Immediate Feedback: Quick identification of mistakes to promote effective learning.
• Supplementary Tools: Metronome, staff paper generator, and virtual piano keyboard.

2. Flashnote Derby App

Flashnote Derby is a fun and engaging app designed to help musicians of all ages improve their note-reading skills. Key benefits include:

• Interactive Game Format: Players identify notes correctly to help their horse win the race. There is also the option to change to a Spacecraft, or a Unicorn, and throughout winter the Reindeer make a return!
• Customisable Levels: Adjust the difficulty by selecting specific notes to practice. Great if you are struggling with a few tricky notes and want to focus specifically on those, or for a general quiz on staff notation knowledge.
• Progress Tracking: Monitor improvement over time with detailed reports.
• Kid-Friendly Design: Ideal for younger students who need a motivating way to practice note recognition.
• Versatile Use: Suitable for piano students and other instrumentalists needing to improve their note-reading skills.

3. Note Rush App

Note Rush is an innovative app that combines note reading with real-time feedback. Benefits include:

• Real-Time Feedback: Uses the device’s microphone to listen to your instrument, providing instant feedback on note accuracy.
• Fun Themes: Engaging visuals and themes keep practice sessions interesting and motivating.
• Customisable Levels: Tailor the app to focus on specific notes, clefs, or note ranges.
• Educational Games: Practice reading music in an interactive, game-like environment.
• Progress Tracking: Track your accuracy and speed to see your improvement over time.

4. YouTube

YouTube is a treasure trove of free educational content for musicians. Key benefits include:

• Diverse Learning Material: Access to tutorials, masterclasses, performances, and lessons on virtually any musical topic.
• Expert Instructors: Learn from world-renowned musicians and educators.
• Visual and Audio Learning: See and hear techniques and concepts in action, enhancing understanding.
• Community Engagement: Join discussions, ask questions, and interact with other learners and professionals.
• Convenience: Learn at your own pace, anytime, anywhere.

5. ABRSM Piano Star Theory Workbook

The ABRSM Piano Star Theory Workbook is an excellent resource for young piano students.

Benefits include:

• Comprehensive Content: Covers essential theory concepts in a structured manner.
• Engaging Exercises: Fun and interactive exercises to reinforce learning.
• Aligned with ABRSM Curriculum: Prepares students for ABRSM theory exams.
• Illustrations and Activities: Makes learning theory enjoyable for younger students.
• Progress Tracking: Clear progression paths help students see their improvement over time.

6. ABRSM Piano Theory Practice App

The ABRSM Piano Theory Practice App offers a modern way to prepare for theory exams. Key benefits include:

• Interactive Practice: Engaging exercises that mimic exam questions.
• Immediate Feedback: Instant feedback helps identify areas needing improvement.
• Customisable Levels: Practice at your own pace, focusing on areas where you need the most help.
• Progress Tracking: Monitor your improvement over time with detailed progress reports.
• Convenience: Practice anytime, anywhere with your mobile device.

7. Andrea & Trevor Dow’s Timed Note Reading Tests

Andrea & Trevor Dow’s Timed Note Reading Tests provide a structured and efficient way to improve note reading speed and accuracy. Key benefits include:

• Timed Exercises: Improve your speed and accuracy in note recognition under time constraints.
• Progressive Difficulty: A gradual increase in difficulty helps build confidence and competence.
• Printable Sheets: Easily accessible printable sheets allow for offline practice.
• Structured Learning: A systematic approach helps in tracking progress and pinpointing areas for improvement.
• Teacher Resources: Ideal for teachers looking for a structured curriculum to enhance their students’ note-reading skills.

9. Rhythm Swing

Rhythm Swing is an interactive rhythm app that makes learning and practicing rhythms fun and engaging. Key benefits include:

• Interactive Gameplay: Players tap along with the rhythm to help a swinging monkey collect bananas.
• Customisable Levels: Adjust difficulty and focus on specific rhythmic patterns.
• Engaging Design: Colourful graphics and playful animation keep users motivated.
• Educational Value: Enhances rhythmic accuracy and timing skills.
• Progress Tracking: Monitors user progress and provides feedback on performance.

10. Tuny Stones App

Tuny Stones is a versatile app that focuses on improvisation, note recognition, and distinguishing between high and low notes on the piano. Key benefits include:

• Improvisation Practice: Encourages creative musical expression through guided improvisation exercises.
• Note Recognition: Helps users identify and play notes correctly on the piano.
• High & Low Recognition: Teaches the concepts of pitch and register in a fun, interactive way.
• Engaging Gameplay: Uses a game-based approach to keep practice sessions enjoyable.
• Skill Development: Improves overall musicality and aural skills.