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Creating Music (http://www.creatingmusic.com/)

common sense media says

Play composer with this kid-friendly music site.

parents & educators say
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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that kids can be belting out tunes and experimenting with music within minutes of accessing this site. The brainchild of electronic music pioneer Morton Subotnick, this Web site was designed to fill a void in children's music education and allow kids the chance to compose arrangements, rather than just practice other people's work. Through music comparison, instrument and scale samples, and a musical "sketch pad," users can learn about composition and how notes come together to make music. Many of these lessons are continued in the company's line of CD-ROMs, which are featured on the site. The product promotions aren't attention-grabbing or marketed at young users.

Educational value: Kids can learn to train their ears to recognize harmonies and music patterns. They can also try their hand at composing, and learn to play along with Beethoven.
Positive messages: The message that anyone can compose music is at the center of the site. Users are encouraged to try out new sounds and styles by jumping right into composing pieces. Games offer gentle reminders when a player gets a wrong answer.
Violence: Not applicable.
Sex: Not applicable.
Language: Not applicable.
Consumerism: The home page includes a list of educational CD-ROMS that follow up where the site leaves off. On the "About Us" page it reads: "Each activity will be expanded into CD-ROMS and/or software which can be downloaded via the Web." Most of the promotions however are directed at parents, rather than kids.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.
Privacy & safety: There is no information collected on the site.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Creating Music

What to talk about

Talk to your kids

  • Families can talk about how interactive sites differ. This site is interactive, and so are virtual worlds like Club Penguin. How does this music making site differ in its interactive features? Read "Online Worlds for Young Kids Tips" to find out more about virtual worlds.

  • When you make your own music, do you have a better sense of the work and thought that went into the music that you listen to? Is it easy to make music that sounds appealing?

  • Families can talk about setting limits on computer time. It's fun to play with sounds and notes online, but is it the same as playing an actual instrument? Read some tips for a balanced technology diet in our article "Setting Computer Limits Tips."

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

When you want the kids to experience a little music creativity but don't feel like having the whole house pounding with drum beats and loud off-key guitars, CREATING MUSIC is the Web site to visit. The activities are generally short and sweet and can give an impromptu music lesson whenever the mood strikes. Fun challenges like recognizing harmonies and playing along with classical composers give this site instant kid-appeal, while ambitious lessons that work in classical, world, and even rap music to teach and train young ears show this site has the chops for education and fun.

Online interaction: With just a few clicks of the mouse, users can create compositions in a very simple on-screen process. Clicking on boxes makes sound patterns and rhythms, and users can practice scales with the help of their keyboard number pad.

This review was written by Jacqueline Rupp
 
 

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rocknrollry
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It is just right for kids my age!!!!
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