Is Synthesia An Effective Way To Learn A New Piano Song?
Some people believe that Synthesia can help with learning a new song, as long as you use it in the right way.
Some say yes, and others no. And you have a handful who don't think it's that big of a deal whether you do or don't. You'll find people who say it makes a big difference and some who dismiss the whole thing.
So what gives? Well, here's one person's opinion on the matter.
"When I first started out on my piano journey, there was no YouTube or tutorials of any kind available for learning something new. I had to figure this all out for myself. And although I did figure it out, as I've progressed and tried to learn new songs (something you'll be doing a lot at the start of your journey), I've since realized that there are quicker ways to successfully accomplish my goal."
What is Synthesia
Syntheisa is a software that has an interface popping up to look like a piano keyboard.
When you press any key, it sounds like the corresponding note on a piano. You can press multiple keys at the same time to create chords, and you can play along with a song.
How Synthesia Helps
There are many different reasons why people would believe that Synthesia is effective for learning piano songs. It's much easier to discern between notes on the screen then on a real piano or keyboard.
If you're using Synthesia to learn how to play phrases from sheet music, it's easy because the software will show you what notes to play if there are more than one in a row of music notation.
Can Synthesia Play Any Songs On The Piano
The software has an in-built library of popular songs that you can play along with. But it also allows you to import midi files from websites that provide the midi files.
In order for Synthesia to play a song, you must first upload it onto your computer as a midi file. You can then play it on Synthesia using the same keys you would use on a real keyboard.
If the midi file is intended for multiple instruments (such as guitar, bass, drums), only the notes for piano will be displayed as long as your synthesia settings are set to 'Piano' mode.
Video Piano Tutorials with Synthesia
Synthesia also functions as a video piano tutorial that allows you to play along with popular songs on the internet.
Benefits of Using Synthesia As A Video Piano Tutorial
Synthesia's video piano tutorial function is the next best thing to having a teacher right there beside you. The visuals of seeing what you are supposed to be playing can help those who learn better visually, and it encourages people to keep going when they get stuck on a part that they don't see coming.
Another way that Synthesia can help is if you're looking to play a piece by ear but have trouble figuring out how to start or you'd like hear how it's supposed to sound without having to perform it yourself. In this case, you can play it along with the song in order to develop your ear.
Disadvantages of Using Synthesia As A Video Learning Tool
It's not always as easy to comprehend a piano song when you're watching a video tutorial with Synthesia. You have to be able to see the keys being pressed, and sometimes the video won't show it. At times, there will be multiple strings of music notation in a row shown on the screen and you will not know which notes on your keyboard would correspond with them.
You may be able to get your notes and rhythm right but then have trouble with finger dexterity. It can be frustrating to see that you're hitting the right keys and not understanding why your fingers keep stumbling over each other or sticking on a certain note.
When To Use Video Piano Tutorials with Synthesia
Some people use Synthesia more often than others, but it really depends on what kind of learner you are and how much time you have to practice as well as what your goals are.
If you're looking to learn how to play piano songs, Youtube video tutorials may better suit your needs because they will go over the song more in-depth and give you a better feel for it rather than just showing the notes that need to be pressed.
If you're a beginner with limited time looking to learn how to play the piano, video piano tutorials with Synthesia is a decent option because it shows what notes need to be pressed and in what order.
Coupled with having a piano lead sheet, this method can be a very useful tool for those who are in the process of learning how to read music notes. As time goes by, you'll have a great foundation for learning more advanced concepts.
Conclusion
Video tutorials using Synthesia can be an effective way of learning how to play a new piano song, if done correctly.
Those who are not beginners may find it more helpful than those who are newer to the piano. However, with some guidance and instructions provided, you can learn how to master simple songs in no time.
With a little bit of patience and practice, you'll be playing new piano songs in no time with the Youtube Synthesia tutorials along with your favorite scores. Good luck!