There are a wealth of resources available to the classroom teacher, whether choral or instrumental, that can be used to augment the music program and bring technology into the curriculum. These resources can also be used to enhance instructional delivery.
One such product is a piece of hardware called the MusicPad Pro Plus, from http://www.freehandsystems.com/products.html This product is an electronic-touch-screen based notebook. Scan your music, save it to a flash drive, then insert the drive into the MusicPad. It can then be opened up and read sheet music electronically. Pages can be turned by touching the screen or optional foot pedal. The unit comes with a stylus that permits one to make markups to the music, then saves the markups for rehearsal. The unit will also connect to a digital projector so your students can view the music on a large screen. You'll then be able to see their faces as they read the music behind you. No more "hidden faces" looking down at the music! I have such a device. It's easy to learn how to navigate this piece of equipment. It mounts on a music stand and is portable. It has a battery that is good for 2 or so hours between charges.
Another item is a free piece of software called Anvil Studio. This program creates midi files that can be played on a computer or through a clavinova. You can then accompany the clavinova with another instrument such as a trumpet or guitar. Chad Davis, a local musician, has used this program with great success. Get the program from http://www.anvilstudio.com
Another program that is similar to but much more versatile than Anvil Studio is one called FL Studio. The demo version is fully functional, but will not save your projects, HOWEVER, it will allow you to export them as .wav or .mp3 files. The program allow for multi-track composition and looping. I've not worked with it but have seen it in action. Local musician Dusty Merrill has used it with success in our church as part of the worship and praise team. It is VERY impressive. The fully functional version is $99.00. The demo version, though, should do what you want it to do if .wav or mp3 files will meet your needs. Download FL Studio from http://flstudio.image-line.com
Charlie
Fl Studio Fruity Edition is $99. I'd recommend getting the Producer Edition though if you also need full audio recording/editing and automation of all parameters. You can see the differences between versions here: Fl Studio features
ReplyDeleteIn case anyone is interested in buying the software, you can get 10% discount on a purchase of $90 or more from the Image-Line online web shop with this link: 10% discount on FL Studio and other Image-Line products.
(only valid for new customers)
Thanks for the information, Ronnie. I looked at your website, http://rekkerd.org. Do you also own and operate the IMAGELINE site from which FL Studio can be purchased? I ask because there is no contact information at the latter.
ReplyDeleteThanks,
Charlie