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Synthesia for Android: A Hands-On Review of This Music Learning Tool

by Synthesia LLC

3.8
ANDROIDMusic & Audio
This app delivers a visual method for piano education, using falling notes to guide users through songs. Designed to help beginners and intermediate players, it functions as a practice aid with customizable features. If you need a straightforward way to learn piano without formal lessons, Synthesia offers a structured approach.

Detailed Review

Synthesia positions itself as a mobile piano learning application that utilizes MIDI-based visualizations to teach music. Unlike traditional sheet music, it presents notes as colored bars descending on a virtual keyboard, aiming to simplify the learning process. The app caters primarily to self-taught musicians and hobbyists, filling a niche in the crowded music education market by emphasizing interactive, gamified practice. Its Android version brings this experience to portable devices, allowing for on-the-go learning without the need for physical sheet music or a teacher. Core functionality revolves around its visual note display, which syncs with MIDI files to show which keys to press in real-time. Users can access a built-in library of songs spanning classical, pop, and rock genres, or import custom MIDI files for personalized learning. Features like adjustable playback speed, hand separation for left and right parts, and progress tracking enable focused practice sessions. For instance, a beginner might slow down a complex chorus to master timing, while an advanced player could isolate challenging arpeggios. The app also includes basic customization, such as changing note colors or keyboard layout, though some options feel buried in menus. In real-world usage, Synthesia proves effective for daily practice routines, particularly for visual learners who struggle with standard notation. The interface is generally intuitive, with a clean design that minimizes distractions during play. However, on smaller Android screens, the note bars can appear cramped, occasionally leading to mispresses. Users often report employing it as a supplementary tool for learning specific songs, such as preparing for a performance or exploring new genres. Its portability means practice can happen anywhere, though reliance on MIDI files limits those without access to digital music sources. User feedback, inferred from the 3.8/5 rating, suggests a mixed reception. Positive trends highlight the app's ability to demystify piano playing, with many noting rapid progress on simple tunes. Criticisms frequently mention occasional lag on older devices and a steep learning curve for navigating MIDI imports. Some reviews indicate frustration with the free version's restrictions, such as limited song selections or ads interrupting sessions. Despite this, the visual method receives praise for making music theory more accessible, especially for children or casual learners. Overall, Synthesia serves as a practical tool for piano enthusiasts seeking a non-traditional learning path. Its strengths lie in the engaging visual feedback and flexibility with custom content, while limitations include dependency on MIDI compatibility and a interface that can feel overwhelming initially. For those willing to explore its features, it offers a solid entry point into music education, though it may not replace comprehensive instruction for advanced techniques.

Key Features

  • Visual Note Falling: Displays piano notes as colored bars that descend in sync with music, providing clear timing cues for learners to follow along easily.
  • MIDI File Support: Enables import of custom MIDI files, allowing users to expand the song library beyond pre-loaded tracks for personalized practice.
  • Adjustable Practice Modes: Includes speed control and hand separation tools to break down difficult passages, fostering gradual skill improvement.
  • Built-in Song Library: Offers a variety of pre-installed songs across genres, from Beethoven to contemporary hits, catering to diverse musical tastes.
  • Progress Tracking: Monitors practice sessions and highlights accuracy rates, helping users identify weak spots for focused repetition.
  • Customization Options: Allows changes to note colors, keyboard size, and background themes, though some settings require menu digging to access.

Why Users Love It

Intuitive visual learning interface
Flexible custom MIDI support

Perfect for: Ideal for novice pianists and music hobbyists looking for a self-paced, visual alternative to traditional lessons.

Screenshots

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Ranking History

Track Synthesia's performance in Music & Audio over the last 30 days

Top 5
Top 10
Top 15
Below 15

Current Rank

#50

Best Rank

#50

All-time high

Average Rank

#50

30-day average

User Reviews

Good Will
Dec 12, 2025

Very cool app. And full version cost only 8$ without subscribtion. You can learn notes, rythm. You have falling MIDI keys or you can add or switch to Notes reading. Totally great app. Using it already month and very happy about it. Some things could be fixed or added into app. * More songs into "build in songs" play list * Shortcut for hiding keyboard, so you can switch to notes reading easily Great app. Thank you And I can't remove songs from play list "move to trash" button is missing.

Good Will
Dec 12, 2025

Very cool app. And full version cost only 8$ without subscribtion. You can learn notes, rythm. You have falling MIDI keys or you can add or switch to Notes reading. Totally great app. Using it already month and very happy about it. Some things could be fixed or added into app. * More songs into "build in songs" play list * Shortcut for hiding keyboard, so you can switch to notes reading easily Great app. Thank you And I can't remove songs from play list "move to trash" button is missing.

Mani Phaces
Nov 19, 2025

I have the desktop version of this, didn't know there was a mobile app. I'm using an old underpoweredChromebook tablet with my APC mini midi keyboard and just wanted to see if it would if it would actually work and it does! something cool and fun to do now when winding down for the day in bed. I advise paying to unlock the full festures, it's definitely worth it. I unlocked it years ago and forgot about it for a while but on my desktop I have many midi files uploaded. Very useful.

Mani Phaces
Nov 19, 2025

I have the desktop version of this, didn't know there was a mobile app. I'm using an old underpoweredChromebook tablet with my APC mini midi keyboard and just wanted to see if it would if it would actually work and it does! something cool and fun to do now when winding down for the day in bed. I advise paying to unlock the full festures, it's definitely worth it. I unlocked it years ago and forgot about it for a while but on my desktop I have many midi files uploaded. Very useful.

Jona Padora
Oct 3, 2025

unbelievable direction is so big but i'm going to so later i like so much because it's so derful but i can do not download that i want to download please never before i like that back please weather

App Details

Developer

Synthesia LLC

Platform

android

Rating

3.8

Last Updated

12/31/2025