Piano, Percussion, and Recording Techonology... All Online!

Funded Oct 27, 2020

Thanks to your generosity, I have been able to bring music-making technology to my students throughout this trying year. We started back in October with an introduction to the software, creating original compositions with instrument loops, followed soon after by a project exploring expression and intention in music. We returned to the software in January, when piano keyboard instruction became central to the class curriculum, and we have been using Soundtrap for weekly projects ever since!

Soundtrap is great for teaching piano keyboard, because the software includes a virtual piano triggered by keys on a computer keyboard (or if using a mobile device, students can simply touch the virtual piano keys on the screen). Thus, even if most of my students don't have piano keyboards at home - or can't use the ones in my classroom, due to pandemic protocols - they are all able to access these projects and learn to play piano, using the devices they've been given for completing all their other school work. They are also learning about music theory concepts, music performance, and music technology.

Several students have commented "this is cool" or "this was fun" on assignments, and I'm sure that many others appreciate the creative outlet. Some have even created projects that were NOT assigned and invited me to collaborate with them. This software continues to provide opportunities for robust engagement with my students, and I have you all to thank for these opportunities!”

With gratitude,

Mr. ANDOLLO