Simply Piano review

Simply Piano is the most approachable way to start piano at home. It listens to the notes you play on any piano or keyboard, so you can use an old acoustic upright or a cheap keyboard, and it tells you right away whether you are on track. Lessons are short and paced for beginners, and the course moves from simple melodies to both hands, chords and sheet music, with advanced courses for people who already play. The song library runs from classical pieces to chart hits and Disney songs, which keeps children interested, and warm-ups and personalized exercises fill the gaps between songs. Simply says its courses are designed by educators and the app is Trinity College London certified. Families can share a subscription. The tradeoffs are price transparency, since Simply does not list prices on its website, and depth: an app cannot correct hand position the way a teacher can, so serious students may add lessons later.

Who it is for

Adults and kids who want the easiest app to start playing at home.

Price

See vendor pricing (USD check pending); individual and family subscriptions.

US price check pending. See the vendor pricing page.

Key features

• Listens to the notes you play on any piano or keyboard and gives immediate feedback
• Songs from classical pieces to chart hits, plus Disney songs
• Step-by-step tutorials for beginners and advanced courses for players
• Warm-ups, personalized exercises and sheet music
• Trinity College London certified, with subscriptions for families and individuals

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Very gentle start for complete beginners of any age
• Strength: Works with acoustic pianos as well as keyboards
• Strength: Family subscriptions cover several learners
• Weakness: Prices are not listed on the Simply website
• Weakness: Less live teacher contact than video courses or private lessons
• Weakness: Song focus can leave gaps in theory unless you follow the full path

Key facts

• Instruments supported: Any piano or keyboard
• Levels: Beginner tutorials and advanced courses
• Plans: Individual and family subscriptions
• Certification: Trinity College London certified
• Maker: Simply, which also makes Simply Guitar and Simply Sing

Where it ranks

Simply Piano is No. 1 in our Best Online Piano Lessons verdict.