Bass Cat

I don't know about you, but when it comes to music theory, I've always had more trouble with the bass clef than the treble.  For some reason, it takes me at least twice as long to figure out the notes on the bass clef when sight reading.  Enter Bass Cat by LMuse, a fun app designed to teach and consolidate the learning of notes on the bass clef!

The notes are introduced one at a time, and practice in the form of a game is offered.  The challenges in each stage are locked until the previous challenge has been successfully completed.  A perfect score gets you three stars; with two stars you can move on or repeat the challenge, as desired.

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One thing I really like about this app is that it provides scaffolded learning; the challenges within each stage offer just the right amount of challenge, without becoming overwhelming.  There is a gradual release of the responsibility to the player as notes are first labeled, and then eventually, just have to be recognized by their position on the staff.  Also, in the early levels, only one or two notes at a time are used in the game, and they move fairly slowly along the staff, whereas in the more advanced levels, three notes need to be recognized, and the also move more quickly along the staff, helping the player to develop automaticity in note reading.

Another thing I like about this app is that it exposes students to a diversity of musical genres and styles: From Jazz to waltz and everything in between, a variety of music plays in the background while students work on each challenge. (And for those who prefer a silent experience, the sound can be turned off.)

If you're looking for a fun but proven way to improve your bass note reading, I highly recommend bass cat!