KS1 - Music Technology Resources
Please click on a title below to expand the information and access links. Recommendations have been made as to which key stages the software is suitable for. Please see this page for free lesson planning associated with some of the software listed below.
Please click here for free lesson planning for some of the software listed below
Ableton Loops Grid - KS1 & 2
https://learningmusic.ableton.com/
A simple 4 x 4 grid matrix that contains loops for drums, bass, chords and melodies. Allow children to explore creating different combinations, discussing why they like their selection. This application offers clear opportunities to explore discussion and the creation of musical sections as well as discussions around texture.
Audacity - KS1
https://www.audacityteam.org/download/
Audacity is an easy-to-use, multi-track audio editor and recorder for Windows and macOS Developed by a group of volunteers as open source.
BandLab - KS1
The cloud platform where musicians and fans create music, collaborate and engage with each other across the globe.
Cake Walk - KS1
http://www.cakewalk.com/products/music-creator-le
Music Creator LE is the perfect solution to get started recording quickly that is fun and easy to use.
Chrome Experiments - Kandinsky - KS1 & 2
https://musiclab.chromeexperiments.com/Kandinsky
Kandinsky is a visually engaging piece of software that allows users to draw shapes and lines. These graphics are interpreted by the software as a range of instruments and sounds in a range of pitches. Because of the free time nature of what is produced, this software could be used as a safe starting point for younger pupils, helping to build positive musical experiences in an engaging way.
Chrome Experiments – Melody Maker - KS1, 2 & 3
https://musiclab.chromeexperiments.com/Melody-Maker
Melody maker is a piece of software which allows learners to quickly create single note melodies using 8 beats. The tempo can be altered and there is a delay effect which can be added to create a nice effect.
Chrome Experiments – Rhythm - KS1 & 2
https://musiclab.chromeexperiments.com/Rhythm
Rhythm is a colourful tool which, due to its animated characters, would likely be appealing to younger students. Rhythm allows for learners to compose and explore in a range of time signatures including 3/4, 4/4, 5/4, 6/8 (or 6/4). With simple and limited graphic notation, pupils can create their own rhythms in the variety of given time signatures.
Chrome Experiments – Voice Spinner - KS1 & 2
https://musiclab.chromeexperiments.com/Voice-Spinner
Voice spinner is a simple piece of software which allows learners to quickly record and manipulate a short snippet of their voice (or any other sound they choose). They can manipulate the pitch of the recording or play the recording in reverse at various pitches.
CUBASE - KS1
Steinberg are generously offering completely free 60 day access to Cubase Elements. Cubase is an industry standard Music Production program that has long been used by countless professional artists and producers. The StayHome Elements Collection includes access to Cubase Elements, Dorico Elements, WaveLab Elements and the Absolute VST Collection.
Click here for support on how to get setup and using Cubase quickly
All free to use for 60 days. For more details and to download, please visit: https://new.steinberg.net/stayhome/
Incredibox BeatBox Looper - KS1 & 2
https://www.incredibox.com/demo/
Incredibox is a very fun and visually engaging application whilst also providing some very enjoyable and high quality looping and layering opportunities. Pupils select from banks of samples, assigning one of the characters to a certain loop. The loops can be turned on or off and be set to mute or solo. These tools allow pupils to create clear layers and sections.
Reaper - KS1
https://www.reaper.fm/download.php
Download REAPER below for a free, fully functional 60-day evaluation.
No registration or personal details are required.
Sound Trap - KS1
Join A Community Of Music Makers With A Large Collection Of Beats, Loops And Instruments.
