My First Orchestra App
© 2012 Naxos AudioBooks UK
This British music app is designed to let children explore the instruments in the symphonic orchestra. The best part is the music, in the form of 30 lengthy (but still excerpted) music selections that feature each instrument, and are of excellent quality. A set of furry troll characters serve as the hosts to this app -- if you touch one, he/she might try to experiment with an instrument. This provides the novice point of view. The music can only be played from within the context of the app, so don't think you'll be able to load up your iTunes. Selections include the theme from Superman (by John Williams); the Carmen Fantasy and Wagner's Overture to Tannhäuser. Weaknesses include some clunky "extra" activities that include a multi-choice quiz and a conducting game where you follow along with the music. The font is very small on the iPad mini. The interaction is primitive, but the musical samples pull up the ratings. The app was created by Genevieve Helsby with illustrations by Karin Eklund. This is the sequel to the My First Classical Music app.
$4.99, IOS-Apple
Teaches: music, the orchestra
CTR Rating: 84%