The eMedia Piano and Keyboard Method Review: How's It Work?

eMedia Piano and Keyboard Method is a software compendium of piano lessons and learning tools. It includes audio, video, recording, and correction facilities. The software is simple, easy to install, can be used with or without a MIDI keyboard and is available for the Windows and Macintosh operating systems.

There are 316 lessons grouped into 12 chapters, plus an introduction to music theory. They take you from the basic concepts of rhythm and sound direction to extended hand positions, scales, and arpeggios. The lessons start at the beginning stage and progress into the intermediate stage.

• Note Reading
• Tempo
• Dynamics
• Sight Reading
• Ear Training
• Intervals and Chords

The software is available in an Educational Edition for school or studio use, a consumer version for home use, or as a bundle with an eMedia USB MIDI keyboard.

The Educational Edition is the same as the consumer version, with the added feature of progress tracking for up to 250 users and a printed Teacher's Guide. The eMedia Learn to Play Keyboard Pack comes with the consumer version of the Piano and Keyboard Method, as well as a touch-sensitive 49 full-sized key MIDI controller keyboard.

Learning to play the piano is often difficult and expensive because it requires a variety of skills, including music reading, finger techniques, and playing by ear. Getting all of these lessons from a music school or private instructor can cost a lot.

Using piano teaching software is a lower cost alternative that also lets you learn at your own pace, with no pressure.

eMedia Piano and Keyboard Method describes itself as "dedicated to producing high quality multimedia music instruction software," and says that their software is aimed at being a comprehensive system to get you started playing the piano quickly and easily.

However, the teaching style seems designed for children or those who prefer to go very slowly. Also, several music experts have stated the the teaching methods employed are outdated, and unless you enjoy oldies and classic soft rock, some of the songs may seem silly.

That aside, this product lives up to its claims by providing you not only with all the theory and lessons you need to get started playing, but by also providing you with all the tools you need to progress.

eMedia Piano and Keyboard Method includes:

• Over 100 Multi-track MIDI songs
• Piano Fingering and Guitar Chords
• 316 lessons
• Digital Metronome
• Digital Recorder
• Interactive Ear Training Exercises
• Keyboard Feedback

The course is suitable for novice, beginner, and intermediate level pianists of all ages. It can be used at home, or in a school or studio setting.

• Windows 95 / 98 / NT / 2000 / Me / XP
• Mac OS 7.5.3+
• Mac OS X 10.2+

• Educational version - $99.95
• Consumer version - $59.95
• "Learn to Play Keyboard Bundle" with MIDI Keyboard - $149.95

• Interactive feedback reinforces learning
• Lessons are comprehensive
• Installation is fast and simple
• Software covers every beginning piano topic

• Many songs are "oldies"

If you are looking for a comprehensive, reasonably priced piano learning software course, this product would be an excellent choice.

It comes with everything you need, even if you've never touched a piano before.

The simplistic teaching style and old songs may be a put off to some, but in no way diminish the value of the learning experience.

If that doesn't bother you, consider purchasing eMedia Piano and Keyboard Method. The software's great and the price is reasonable.

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