Free Music Education for Kids
A Note from the Founder
I have spent most of my life teaching, performing, composing, recording and conducting music. In my years in the classroom, I noticed a heartbreaking trend: much of today's music relies on such complex, expensive electronics that playing along becomes almost impossible for a child.
In the sixties, when I was a kid, music was simple. We listened to the radio and cassette tapes, and before long, we could play along. I think back to 1997, when the theme from Titanic became a global phenomenon. It was a masterpiece that created more than a global hit; it created a lasting memory for every student I taught. While hits come and go, melodies that beginners can actually play are a rare treasure.
Little Composers is my vision to bring that "yes, I can play that" feeling back.
What Little Composers offers
Music apps for kids with a built-in teacher
Color-coded keys and a SHOW ME button in every lesson teach your child exactly how to play, so they can practice on their own.
No prior musical experience required
You don't need to read music or play an instrument. The apps guide both parent and child from first notes to full compositions.
Creative music composition before complex theory
Most music methods start with books. Little Composers flips the order and the results speak for themselves.
Learn music without needing an expensive instrument
Although a tablet is best, the apps work on any device you already have. Start where you are.
Expert-led music curriculum for early learners
Developed by a retired Austrian music educator. The method is tested, structured, and age-appropriate.
100% free music education, forever
A labor of love and my gift to the musicians of tomorrow. No barriers, just play.
"The Canadian team behind Little Composers have created what may be the best music apps for younger kids, and they're available on all tablets, smartphones, Macs and PCs."
— Kevin McGuire, The Irish Times
Frequently asked questions
Can I teach my child?
Teaching a child is 80% encouragement and 20% patience. If you are willing to sit with them, listen to what they compose, and tell them how amazed you are, then yes, you can teach. We provide everything else.
How long should we practice?
If your child is a toddler or still pre-reading, keep sessions to about 15 minutes. Mix the playtime with questions. Pretend you've forgotten a few details and let your child teach you. Then generate a new lesson or start a new composition, depending on the app.
How often should we practice?
For best results, five days per week is sufficient. Not every day is the same. When I was a young music teacher in the eighties, I had a hard time teaching on the nights Knight Rider aired. If your child shows disinterest, it is okay to skip a day or two. If this becomes a pattern, revisit the first question: Can I teach my child?
We only have a laptop. Will that work?
Yes. Connect an external mouse and you are set. Just be mindful that clicking piano keys with a cursor is slower than tapping a screen, so start with a slower tempo and let your child set the pace. A laptop is a perfectly good place to begin.
Can I download your apps?
The Little Composers apps live in your browser, not on your device. You don't download or install anything. You open a link, the app loads, and you start playing. This keeps the barrier to entry as low as possible: no app store, no account, no update prompts. Any child with a screen and a connection can play.
Are the piano apps just for children?
No. Many apps include extra keys that make thousands of melodies possible. prePiano Two through Four and the Little Composers Piano span the range of the human voice, so if you can sing it, you can play it. Adults use them too.
No sound from the apps?
Check your system volume first. If the volume is fine, play a YouTube video in the same browser. If YouTube has sound, the apps will too.
Ready to make music?
Choose a starting point based on your child's age and experience.