Simply Piano Review (2024): The Truth About Learning Piano With an App

The piano has an enduring allure, captivating composers and listeners for centuries with its expressive range. However, the road to learning this beautiful instrument can seem daunting.

Traditional lessons may be inaccessible due to cost, logistics, or simply finding a teacher compatible with your learning style. This is where technology enters the picture, with popular apps like Simply Piano promising to guide budding musicians from hesitant first steps to playing beloved melodies.

As a pianist and an educator, I've witnessed the incredible potential of learning apps as supplementary tools. Yet, skepticism is valid. Can an app truly teach you the nuances of piano technique and musicianship?

This comprehensive Simply Piano review aims to illuminate precisely that. We will dissect its features, pricing, and potential – alongside its limitations. Ultimately, this article empowers you to determine whether Simply Piano aligns with your journey into the wonderful world of piano learning.

Let's begin by unraveling what Simply Piano is and how its approach to learning works.

What is Simply Piano?

Developed by JoyTunes, Simply Piano markets itself as a fast and fun way to learn piano from the comfort of your home. The app functions on smartphones and tablets, delivering piano instruction through a blend of guided lessons and interactive exercises. It boasts a significant song library covering various genres and skill levels, appealing to learners with diverse musical tastes.

Key Features of Simply Piano

The core concept behind Simply Piano is progressive learning. Starting with the basics of note recognition and hand placement, the app guides you through increasingly complex concepts like chords, scales, and reading sheet music. Some of its standout features include:

• Instructional Variety: Simply Piano includes lessons for various levels, from beginners to advanced players, ensuring there's something for everyone. If you're looking for Simply Piano lyrics or specific songs, you'll find a useful catalog that spans genres.
• Real-Time Feedback: One of the app’s core features is its ability to "hear" you play. Using your device's microphone, the app can detect the notes you play and provide instant feedback on accuracy. This is a significant advantage for users who want immediate guidance during their practice sessions.
• Progressive Learning Structure: Lessons are designed to build on previous knowledge. Users start with fundamental exercises and gradually move towards more complex pieces, helping foster a solid understanding of piano fundamentals.

Simply Piano Cost – Pricing Breakdown

One of the first questions on any potential user's mind is undoubtedly, "How much does Simply Piano cost?" The answer varies depending on the chosen subscription plan:

• Monthly Subscription: $19.99/month
• 3-Month Subscription: $59.99 (equivalent to $19.99/month)
• Annual Subscription: $119.99 (equivalent to $9.99/month)

It's important to note that Simply Piano frequently offers promotions. Deals during Black Friday, student discounts, and limited-time free trials provide cost-saving opportunities for potential users. Keep an eye out for these promotional events, which can provide significant savings.

You can sign-up for a free trial and they'll send you a deal for black friday:

Understanding Simply Piano Pricing

Given the diverse plans and Simply Piano subscription options, users must evaluate their own commitment level. How much Simply Piano costs should align with your personal investment and learning goals.

Is Simply Piano Worth It?

When pondering whether Simply Piano is worth it, consider the range of available resources and the potential for skill development. For beginners, the structured approach may provide just what’s needed to kickstart their journey, while casual learners may appreciate its flexibility.

How Does Simply Piano Work?

Simply Piano's teaching methodology relies heavily on a few key components:

• Step-by-Step Lessons: The app breaks down piano playing into bite-sized, easily digestible lessons. These cover fundamentals like finger placement, keyboard layout, and rhythm basics. Specific course titles, such as "Piano Basics" or "Chords 101," guide users toward their learning milestones.
• Listening Technology: The ability of Simply Piano to listen to users' playing is a fantastic feature. Whether you have a piano or keyboard, this technology allows the app to assess your accuracy in real time, providing constructive feedback.
• Sheet Music & Popular Songs: While traditional music reading is covered, Simply Piano places strong emphasis on learning popular songs. Its expansive library includes classical melodies, movie soundtracks, and contemporary pop hits, offering motivation for a wide range of learners.

Pros and Cons of Simply Piano

Like any learning tool, Simply Piano possesses both merits and shortcomings. Let’s examine these honestly to ensure informed decision-making:

Pros

• Gamification: The app incorporates elements of gamification with progress tracking and rewards, fostering a sense of achievement. This engaging feature works particularly well for younger learners or those motivated by defined goals.
• Song Library: With a sizable catalog of popular tunes, chances are you'll find music that inspires you to practice. This is an area where Simply Piano may hold an edge over competitors due to its diverse song options.
• Convenience: The ability to learn in your own time and space is a significant advantage. If busy schedules prevent regular trips to a teacher, Simply Piano offers undeniable flexibility for fitting in practice throughout the day.

Cons

• Limits of Technology: While an exceptional aid, an app cannot fully substitute in-person instruction. Nuances of posture, touch, and musical interpretation benefit from human guidance.
• Technique Development: There’s a risk of developing poor habits without feedback on technique. Simply Piano won't correct how you curve your fingers or strike the keys—crucial aspects of playing.
• App Performance: Some users report glitches or lagging, especially on older devices. Such technical issues can disrupt the learning experience and hinder progress.

The Ideal Simply Piano User

Simply Piano isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. However, there are specific types of learners who are particularly likely to benefit from it:

• Beginners Seeking Structure: Those venturing into piano for the first time crave organization, and Simply Piano's clear goals provide a sense of accomplishment right from the start.
• Motivated by Familiar Music: If learning your favorite movie theme or chart-topping hit keeps you engaged, Simply Piano's library is appealing.
• Hobbyists with Limited Time: For busy individuals, Simply Piano's convenience allows quick access to lessons and practice sessions whenever time permits.
• Tech-Savvy Learners: Those who enjoy using technology and appreciate gamified learning often find Simply Piano engaging and intuitive.

Technical Requirements

To get the most from Simply Piano, ensure your setup is compatible and optimized:

• Devices: The app functions best on smartphones and tablets (both iOS and Android) with up-to-date operating systems. Limited functionality exists on computers, but the interactive aspect is designed for touchscreens.
• Piano/Keyboard: If you want to genuinely progress as a pianist, interaction with a real keyboard or piano is essential. Initial lessons can be completed without one, but adequate practice is critical for skill development.
• MIDI Connectivity (Optional): Connecting your keyboard or piano via MIDI enhances accuracy and feedback in Simply Piano, allowing for a more effective learning process.
• Stable Internet Connection: Lesson materials require a steady internet connection. Wi-Fi is strongly recommended for seamless access to all features.

Success Stories & Testimonials

Hearing from actual users brings the Simply Piano experience to life. Here are a few examples (note: these examples are illustrative based on user feedback):

• "As a busy mom, Simply Piano is my lifeline to creativity. Carving out 15 minutes after the kids go to bed to learn some Debussy lets me truly de-stress." - Sarah, age 36
• "I never thought I'd enjoy playing piano until a friend showed me this app. Now I'm obsessed with unlocking chords to those 80s songs I grew up with." - Brian, age 21
• "Taking traditional lessons didn't click for me. Simply Piano's visual way of teaching finally put notes on the staff into clear context." - Emily, age 14

Is Simply Piano Worth It?

Simply put, Simply Piano isn't designed to transform you into the next concert pianist overnight. Becoming proficient on any instrument takes dedicated practice and often benefits from expert guidance. However, Simply Piano can provide a structured and engaging entry point into the world of piano.

It’s essential to manage your expectations. If your goal is to become a skilled classical pianist, Simply Piano may not suffice alone. Still, for self-motivated individuals seeking a user-friendly platform to kickstart their learning, it presents a worthwhile opportunity.

How to Cancel Simply Piano Subscription

Life circumstances change, and deciding to discontinue your Simply Piano subscription is perfectly understandable. The process is relatively straightforward, but there are nuances depending on how you initially subscribed:

• Apple Devices (App Store):

1. Open "Settings" on your device.
2. Tap on your name/Apple ID.
3. Select "Subscriptions."
4. Locate Simply Piano in the list of active subscriptions.
5. Tap "Cancel Subscription" and follow the prompts.

• Android Devices (Google Play Store):

1. Open the Play Store app.
2. Tap on your profile icon.
3. Go to "Payments & Subscriptions," then "Subscriptions."
4. Select Simply Piano.
5. Tap Cancel Subscription and follow the instructions.

• Direct Subscription through the Simply Piano Website:

If you subscribed directly through their website, visit the Account section and look for cancellation options.

Important Note on Refunds

It's wise to familiarize yourself with Simply Piano's refund policy. This can often be found on their website or in the help section of the app. Understanding potential eligibility for refunds provides additional peace of mind if you’re unsure about your commitment to the app.

Alternatives to Simply Piano

The realm of piano learning apps is surprisingly competitive. If, upon reading this review, you're unsure Simply Piano is the perfect fit for you, take a look at these strong contenders:

• Pianoforall: Piano for All takes a unique chord-based approach to piano instruction. It focuses on quickly playing popular songs and styles, catering to those seeking more rapid results and flexibility in their musical exploration.
• Flowkey: Flowkey boasts a sleek interface and well-structured lessons. Notably, it excels in teaching sheet music reading skills and includes many classical selections in its library.
• Yousician: Yousician takes a broader approach, offering instruction for instruments beyond piano (like guitar and ukulele). Its emphasis on gamification and ear training might resonate with certain learners.
• Playground Sessions: Co-founded by legendary producer Quincy Jones, Playground Sessions adopts a video-lesson format featuring prominent teachers. It caters to an intermediate audience and shines in genres like pop, R&B, and jazz.

How Simply Piano Stands Against the Competition

When comparing Simply Piano vs. Flowkey and Simply Piano vs. Yousician, it’s essential to evaluate your personal goals and learning preferences. Consider factors such as song selection, teaching methodology, and user interface when determining which app aligns best with your needs. The competitive landscape of online piano learning offers a range of pricing options, instructional styles, and features.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the decision of whether to enroll with Simply Piano hinges on your individual learning style, goals, and commitment. It holds promise as a launchpad into piano basics, especially for self-motivated beginners or casual hobbyists drawn to its diverse musical offerings. The convenience and structure it provides have genuine value in an increasingly technological world.

However, be mindful of its limitations. Apps cannot compensate fully for the personalized insights of a skilled instructor. If your ambitions lean towards mastering technical finesse or tackling complex repertoire, seeking in-person guidance will likely become critical down the line.

The question of "Is Simply Piano worth it?" can only be answered on an individual basis. Some users may find the course structure, engaging song library, and gamified learning experiences perfect for their needs, while others may desire more traditional learning methods.

Regardless of the path chosen, embark on your piano journey with enthusiasm and patience. Celebrate every milestone, savor the beauty of music-making, and let the process be as rewarding as the desired result.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is Simply Piano free?

• Simply Piano offers a limited free version, but full access requires a subscription.

1. How much does Simply Piano cost?

• Pricing varies: Monthly subscription at $19.99, a 3-month plan for $59.99, and an annual subscription for $119.99.

1. Does Simply Piano work with a keyboard?

• Yes, while initial lessons can be completed without one, a keyboard or piano is essential for progress.

1. How do I cancel my Simply Piano subscription?

• The cancellation process varies based on the device used; follow the instructions above to cancel via Apple, Android, or the website.

1. What are the key features of Simply Piano?

• Key features include step-by-step lessons, real-time feedback through listening technology, and an extensive library of popular songs.

With this in-depth understanding of Simply Piano, it’s now up to you to decide if this platform aligns with your piano learning goals. The world of music awaits; make sure you approach it with the right tools and resources to enrich your musical journey!