Simply Piano App Review: A Comprehensive Look
Simply Piano by JoyTunes is one of the most downloaded piano learning apps on the market. It promises to take complete beginners from their first notes all the way through intermediate repertoire — all through a smartphone or tablet. But does it deliver? This review breaks down exactly what you get, who it works best for, and where it falls short.
What Is Simply Piano?
Simply Piano is a subscription-based app available on iOS and Android. It uses your device's microphone to listen as you play on a real piano or keyboard, providing real-time feedback on your accuracy and timing. The app offers structured lesson paths, popular song arrangements, and visual guidance through a falling-note interface similar to Synthesia.
Curriculum & Structure
The course is organized into tracks that progress logically from beginner fundamentals up through more demanding pieces. Key curriculum features include:
- Beginner track: Hand position, basic note reading, simple rhythms
- Pop & classical songs: Arrangements from well-known artists and composers
- Chord-based playing: Useful for those wanting to accompany singing
- Sight-reading exercises: Gradually introduced in intermediate levels
One limitation is that the falling-note system can become a crutch. Some learners progress through songs without fully internalizing standard musical notation.
Strengths
- Instant feedback: The microphone-based listening is genuinely responsive and catches wrong notes reliably.
- Motivating song library: Learning recognizable pieces keeps practice sessions enjoyable.
- Short, structured lessons: Ideal for busy adults with limited daily practice time.
- Works with any piano or keyboard: No MIDI connection required, though MIDI is supported for better accuracy.
Weaknesses
- Limited music theory depth: Theory is introduced lightly; serious learners may need supplementary resources.
- Notation dependency: The visual interface can slow the development of true sheet music reading skills.
- Subscription cost adds up: Monthly pricing is reasonable, but annual costs can rival some structured online courses.
- Plateaus at intermediate level: Advanced learners will outgrow the content relatively quickly.
Who Should Use Simply Piano?
Simply Piano is a strong choice for:
- Complete beginners who want a fun, low-pressure entry point into piano
- Casual learners focused on playing songs rather than formal training
- Children aged 6 and up (with parental guidance)
- Adults returning to piano after a long break
It is not the best fit for learners with serious classical ambitions or those wanting deep theoretical grounding.
Final Verdict
Simply Piano earns its popularity. It's polished, engaging, and genuinely effective for getting beginners playing music quickly. Just be aware of its ceiling — once you've worked through the intermediate content, you'll likely need to graduate to a more comprehensive course or a human teacher. Think of it as an excellent on-ramp to the piano, not the entire highway.
| Feature | Rating |
|---|---|
| Ease of Use | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Curriculum Depth | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Song Library | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Theory Content | ⭐⭐ |
| Value for Money | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |