Software That Helps You Play Piano
My PC is now equipped with two keyboards--one for words and numbers, and another for music.
The Miracle Piano Teaching System, from Software Toolworks, turns an IBM-compatible PC into an electronic music school. I’ve never had any piano training, but after several hours with the Miracle, I’m reading music and playing “Mary Had a Little Lamb” with two hands. I’m not about to land a job with an orchestra, but I’m making progress and having fun.
The system consists of an electronic piano keyboard, software and a cable to connect the keyboard to the PC. There are also versions for Nintendo, Super Nintendo and Commodore Amiga. A Macintosh version will be available in February.
Installation is easy. You plug the cable into the PC’s serial port and run the installation program. It copies the software to your hard disk (it requires about 1.7 megabytes) and automatically configures it to your hardware.
The keyboard has a stereo amplifier and two built-in speakers, as well as jacks for headphones and an optional external amplifier. There is also a MIDI (musical instrument digital interface) connector that makes it possible to use the keyboard with other musical software if your PC is equipped with a MIDI adapter. MIDI is a standard system for connecting electronic instruments to computers and to each other.
The 49-key keyboard has full-size piano keys and a sustain pedal that you operate with your foot. The keys are velocity-sensitive--the faster you press, the louder the sound. You can control the software with either the computer keyboard, a mouse or the Miracle keyboard’s foot pedal.
You can also play the keyboard without the computer. It has switches that give you access to several instruments. Unlike some keyboards, there are no built-in rhythms or background sounds. Such sounds are available through the software when you’re using the keyboard with the PC.
The program starts by asking your name, so it can track your progress. The program can be used by others as well, making it suitable for a family, a school or any other group. Beginners are then given some introductory lessons. The program makes very good use of the PC’s graphics. There are screens that show you proper posture and how to hold your hands. Others familiarize you with the keyboard layout, sheet music and other basics.
The software has about 1,000 lessons divided into 40 “chapters.” By the end of Chapter 1, you’re playing “Ode to Joy” with the right hand. Chapter 3 covers playing with both hands. Much of the time, you’re looking at sheet music. In some situations, a pointer shows you which notes to play. In some cases, you’re playing songs at your own pace, in others you’re keeping up with the software’s metronome.
The software is infinitely patient, but it’s also firm. It requires you to replay lessons that aren’t to its liking. After each lesson, you’re given feedback about the keys you missed, your timing and other possible problems.
Most of the lessons use on-screen sheet music, but there are plenty of diversions. For example, when the program introduces new notes or finger positions, it tests you with an arcade-type shooting gallery, where you use the piano keyboard to shoot ducks from a musical staff.
The program is based on a music school metaphor. You take your lessons in the “classroom.” Other rooms include the “practice room,” where you can practice any of the songs, and the “performance studio,” where you play along with an optional background orchestra.
There is also a “recording studio,” where you can save your performances to disk. The “arcade” offers several learning games and a “jukebox” that plays songs that come with the program.
The program, according to Software Toolworks spokesman Doug Mealy, offers the equivalent of between six months and a year of piano lessons. Unlike traditional lessons, students work at their own pace and schedule.
The company doesn’t offer an advanced course, but it does sell additional song collections for $49.95 each. Each collection has 35-40 songs with a variety of levels of difficulty.
Joe West, owner of the San Francisco specialty store Computers and Music, is impressed with the software.
“It’s what our customers have wanted for years,” he said. “I wish I had had it when I started.” The Miracle’s MIDI keyboard, according to West, is not as good as others in its price range, but none of the others come with training software.
The system is designed for both children and adults, but it does require reading skills. It’s entertaining and fun, but, as in any rigorous training program, its results will depend on the student’s motivation and effort.
The IBM PC version of the Miracle Piano Teaching System has a suggested price of $479.95 and a street price of about $400. The Nintendo version, which is not as advanced, costs $100 less.
Software Toolworks can be reached at (415) 883-3000 or (800) 234-3088.
Computer File welcomes readers’ comments but regrets that the authors cannot respond individually to letters. Write to Lawrence J. Magid, P.O. Box 620477, Woodside, Calif. 94062, or contact the L. Magid account on the MCI electronic mail system.
