Pleasantly Surprised - One Feedback
The ap is fun, sort of like a music video game, as I prefer to just pull up something new and go without worrying about pace with the first run through. Which you can do by just playing keys when a new piece is brought up. It does take some time to figure this and some of the buttons out, but I might have missed a ‘training level’ as I just dove in.
My feedback was that on the starter chord levels the chord names are listed with the chords, which defeats the purpose of a sight reading ap. I’m weak with chords using deep ledger lines and I found myself unable to ignore the big written letter sitting there. This seemed less an issue on the later more advanced levels or when the chords are with a note in the other hand.
Keep it up, I plan to use this for my sight reading exercises a few times a week, and as noted is a fun exercise for those moments when repertoire work gets stale.
Response from developer
Thank you for taking the time to write this, and for the specific feedback. The chord names are there for a pedagogical reason: we want you to read three or four notes as one thing rather than as separate notes stacked up. Recognising a single unit is far quicker for the brain than decoding each note, and that chunking is what strong readers do without thinking about it. That said, your point stands. If what you are training is deep ledger lines, the letter sitting there short circuits the exact work you came for, so being able to switch it off is something we want to get in. It is on the list. In the meantime, here is where I would send you for chords with no letters at all. The Corelli sonatas in the library have a continuo accompaniment we wrote out, which is mostly triads with suspensions and reads beautifully. The hymns in keyboard style work the same way. The SATB hymns are the next step up, since you have to read open chords, so save those for once the others feel comfortable. We are also preparing a course specifically on ledger lines. If you want guidance before then, email us at info@piano-tree.com and I will help you set up a practice plan. Happy practising!
More than a gamification app
Response from developer
This means a lot, thank you. The musical direction is the whole reason Piano Tree exists. Everything in the library is chosen and graded by musicians, and the roadmap is built the way we would teach a real student rather than assembled at random. Glad you are feeling the difference in your reading and ear training. There is plenty more coming.
Good library of music and outstanding developer support
Response from developer
Thank you so much for your invaluable feedback! I am sure many music students will benefit from your suggestions!
Quite helpful
Response from developer
Thanks for the review! I am glad Piano Tree is helping you learn the notes! Wishing you success in your music studies.
Great app idea, developer support
Response from developer
So glad we could improve your experience! If you ever need anything, just get in touch through the app or send us an email. Happy practising! :)
