FAQ
Piano Patrol FAQ
Find answers to the most common questions about Piano Patrol, the interactive piano learning game.
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What is Piano Patrol? +
Piano Patrol is a software application that transforms learning to play the piano into an interactive game. It combines the engaging nature of video games with structured piano education, using a MIDI keyboard as the primary input device.
The goal is to make learning piano fun, effective, and accessible for beginners to advanced players of all ages.
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How does Piano Patrol turn learning piano into a game? +
Piano Patrol functions like an action game where players complete levels, hit targets, and progress through challenges. However, every game action corresponds directly to a piano playing skill or concept.
By mastering the game levels, players improve their ability to read music, develop finger coordination, understand musical theory, and ultimately, play the piano. It essentially uses a piano keyboard as the "game controller."
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What devices and keyboards are compatible with Piano Patrol? +
Piano Patrol is compatible with Windows PCs and Android devices (phones and tablets). Support for iPhones is planned.
To use Piano Patrol, you need to connect a MIDI keyboard (or a digital piano/organ with a MIDI-out port) to your device, usually via a USB cable or a USB-C OTG adapter for some Android devices.
The software automatically detects most MIDI keyboards upon connection. While any MIDI keyboard should work, we recommend keyboards with at least 32 keys, and preferably 49 keys with standard width, for a more versatile experience.
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What curriculum does Piano Patrol offer, especially for schools? +
Piano Patrol offers a comprehensive curriculum called "The Pianist's Journey," designed for schools and individual learners. This program features 109 progressive levels organized into five courses, guiding students from absolute beginners to confident pre-intermediate pianists.
The curriculum covers essential skills such as reading sheet music, developing hand techniques (right and left), coordinating both hands, understanding basic harmony, and incorporating musical expression like dynamics and articulation.
It is structured to build skills step-by-step and aligns with music education standards.
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Can I use my own music with Piano Patrol? +
Yes, a significant feature of Piano Patrol, especially for musicians and teachers using the Pro version, is the ability to import your own sheet music.
You can upload sheet music (preferably in MusicXML format) and the software will convert it into playable game levels. This allows users to learn any song they choose in a structured, step-by-step manner or for teachers to create custom lessons based on their specific curriculum needs.
You can also create your own custom levels and courses.
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What is the "Piano Karaoke" feature? +
Piano Karaoke is a game mode within Piano Patrol. Similar to traditional vocal karaoke where the lead vocal is removed for the singer to perform, Piano Karaoke removes the piano part the player is meant to play.
You can play along with a background track that might include other instruments or vocalists, focusing on specific parts of the piano score like the melody, accompaniment, or both.
This mode makes practicing more dynamic and immersive.
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How is Piano Patrol being made accessible to schools? +
Piano Patrol offers a free pilot program for schools. This program provides schools with full access to the Piano Patrol software for a pilot class, and importantly, they provide MIDI keyboards and basic earphones at no cost for the duration of the pilot.
The software is designed to be plug-and-play, requiring no special technical knowledge, and can run on common devices students may already possess, such as smartphones, tablets, or laptops.
The goal is to enable schools, even those without existing music programs or extensive equipment, to offer engaging piano instruction.
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What are the differences between the standard and Pro versions of Piano Patrol? +
The standard version offers a base level of access to the software and its features. The Piano Patrol Pro version includes:
- Unlocks all features
- Removes limitations
- Provides unlimited access to the complete exercise library
- Includes detailed performance tracking and analytics
- Offers custom difficulty settings
- Supports importing and practicing with your own sheet music
The Pro version is specifically highlighted as a powerful tool for musicians and music teachers who want to create custom content and programs.
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Who is Piano Patrol designed for? +
Piano Patrol is designed for a wide range of users, including kids, students, and adults. It's suitable for absolute beginners with no prior musical experience as well as intermediate and advanced players looking to improve their skills.
The software is particularly effective for children who already enjoy gaming, as it channels their natural hand-eye coordination and reflexes into learning music. Teachers and music educators will also find Piano Patrol to be a powerful tool for engaging students and creating custom lessons.
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How does Piano Patrol help with learning sheet music? +
Piano Patrol integrates sheet music reading directly into its gameplay. As players progress through the levels, they naturally learn to read standard musical notation because the game targets they hit correspond to notes on the staff.
Through the structured curriculum in "The Pianist's Journey," students begin with simple notes and gradually advance to more complex notation, including different rhythms, key signatures, accidentals, and musical expressions like dynamics and articulation.
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How do I download and install Piano Patrol? +
You can download Piano Patrol 2.019 for Windows PC from this link. Follow the installation instructions that appear after downloading.
Please remember that Piano Patrol requires a MIDI keyboard to play. For Android users, you'll need to purchase a USB-C OTG adapter separately to connect your MIDI keyboard to your device.
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What's the difference between a regular keyboard and a MIDI keyboard? +
A regular keyboard typically refers to a computer keyboard used for typing, while a MIDI keyboard is a piano-style keyboard designed specifically for creating and controlling music.
MIDI keyboards don't produce sound on their own; instead, they send digital signals to connected devices (like your computer or phone running Piano Patrol). This allows the software to detect which keys you're playing and respond accordingly in the game.
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What should I look for when buying a MIDI keyboard for Piano Patrol? +
When choosing a MIDI keyboard for Piano Patrol, consider:
- Key count: We recommend at least 32 keys, preferably 49 keys for a more versatile experience
- Key width: Standard piano key width (about 22-23mm) is best for developing proper technique
- USB connectivity: Make sure it can connect directly to your device
- Touch sensitivity: This allows the keyboard to detect how hard you press the keys
Some recommended models include the MIDIPLUS AKM320 (32 keys, $38) and the Nektar SE49 (49 keys, $89.99).
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Do I need to buy a MIDI keyboard if I already have a digital piano? +
If you already own a digital piano or organ with a MIDI-out port, you most likely don't need to purchase a separate MIDI keyboard for Piano Patrol.
Simply connect your digital piano to your computer or device using a USB cable or MIDI-to-USB interface, and Piano Patrol should detect it automatically. This allows you to use your existing instrument as the controller for the game.
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What are the five courses in "The Pianist's Journey" curriculum? +
The five progressive courses in "The Pianist's Journey" curriculum are:
- Foundations of Right-Hand Playing: Develops essential right-hand techniques and note reading (Levels 1-32)
- Expanding Right-Hand Techniques: Introduces crossing techniques and greater keyboard range (Levels 33-45)
- Left-Hand Development: Focuses on bass clef reading and left-hand techniques (Levels 46-65)
- Two-Hand Coordination & Basic Harmony: Teaches playing with both hands and introduces harmonic concepts (Levels 66-88)
- Musical Expression & Hand Position Shifts: Focuses on dynamics, articulation, and complex hand positions (Levels 89-109)
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What will my child learn in Piano Patrol lessons? +
Through Piano Patrol, your child will learn:
- How to read sheet music from scratch
- Proper piano-playing techniques using both hands
- Essential music theory concepts like rhythm, intervals, dynamics, and phrasing
- Hand-eye coordination and finger dexterity
- Focus, memory, and concentration skills
- A variety of musical styles and pieces, including classical and folk music
The curriculum progresses step by step, ensuring your child builds a solid foundation before moving on to more advanced concepts.
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How does Piano Patrol's difficulty level adjust to different players? +
Piano Patrol's progression system naturally accommodates different skill levels. Beginners can start with the most basic levels, while more experienced players can jump ahead to more challenging content.
The Pro version offers custom difficulty settings that allow you to tailor the experience to your specific needs. Teachers can also create custom levels for their students based on individual abilities and learning goals.
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How long does it take to complete "The Pianist's Journey" curriculum? +
The time to complete the full 109 levels of "The Pianist's Journey" curriculum varies depending on several factors, including:
- Prior musical experience
- Practice frequency and duration
- Individual learning pace
- Age and motor skills development
With regular practice of 20-30 minutes several times per week, most students can progress through the curriculum in about 1-2 years, though everyone's journey is unique.
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Can I add my own explanatory videos to Piano Patrol levels? +
Yes, Piano Patrol allows you to add your own explanatory videos to custom levels. These videos can play either before a level starts or after it ends.
This feature is particularly useful for music teachers who want to provide additional instructions, demonstrate techniques, or explain musical concepts to their students within the Piano Patrol environment.
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How do I create my own Piano Patrol content? +
To create your own Piano Patrol content, you'll need:
- Sheet music in MusicXML format (you can create this using music notation software or find free sheet music resources online)
- Piano Patrol Pro version, which includes content creation tools
You can design progressive levels that build up to playing an entire piece, add explanatory videos, and even incorporate background music or accompaniment tracks for Piano Karaoke mode. For detailed instructions, visit this help page.
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Does Piano Patrol work without an internet connection? +
Yes, once installed, Piano Patrol works offline without requiring an internet connection. This makes it ideal for classrooms with limited connectivity and allows students to practice anywhere without worrying about Wi-Fi access.
However, an internet connection may be required for initial software download, registration, and accessing any cloud-based content or updates.
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How does Piano Patrol's school pilot program work? +
Piano Patrol's free pilot program for schools includes:
- Full access to Piano Patrol software for your pilot class
- MIDI keyboards provided at no cost for the duration of the pilot
- Basic earphones for student use
- Step-by-step support from the Piano Patrol team
- A full school year (two semesters) to evaluate the program
Schools need to provide screens (computers, tablets, or phones) for students to use, with approximately one device for every 1-3 students. To join the program, contact Piano Patrol directly through their website or email Support@PianoPatrol.com.
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How do I connect a MIDI keyboard to my Android phone or tablet? +
To connect a MIDI keyboard to your Android device:
- Purchase a USB-C OTG (On-The-Go) adapter if your device has a USB-C port
- Connect the adapter to your Android device
- Connect your MIDI keyboard to the adapter using the keyboard's USB cable
- Launch Piano Patrol, which should automatically detect the connected keyboard
Most modern Android devices support USB OTG functionality. The required adapter can be purchased separately here.
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Does Piano Patrol track my progress and performance? +
Yes, Piano Patrol tracks your progress as you move through levels and courses. The Pro version includes enhanced performance tracking with detailed analytics that help you identify areas for improvement.
Teachers can use these analytics to monitor student progress, identify common challenges, and adjust their teaching strategies accordingly. This data-driven approach helps ensure that every student receives the support they need to succeed.
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What educational benefits does Piano Patrol offer beyond piano skills? +
Beyond teaching piano skills, Piano Patrol offers numerous educational benefits:
- Improved focus and concentration
- Enhanced hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills
- Strengthened memory and cognitive abilities
- Increased discipline and persistence
- Cultural awareness through exposure to diverse musical traditions
- Mathematical understanding through rhythm and note values
- Boosted confidence and self-expression
These skills transfer to other academic areas and support holistic child development.
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Is there a satisfaction guarantee for Piano Patrol Pro? +
Yes, Piano Patrol Pro comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you find that Piano Patrol Pro doesn't help improve your piano skills within 30 days of purchase, you can request a refund with no questions asked.
This risk-free guarantee allows you to try the full features of Piano Patrol Pro and see the benefits for yourself before making a final commitment.
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Who is behind Piano Patrol? +
Piano Patrol is supported by MelodyCheck.com and MelodyTec Ltd., a company based in Kiryat Ono, Israel. The team consists of music educators, software developers, and game designers committed to making piano education more accessible and engaging.
For any questions or support needs, you can contact them at Support@PianoPatrol.com, via WhatsApp, or by phone at +972-58-6667979.
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Does my Piano Patrol Pro license work across multiple devices? +
Yes, your Piano Patrol Pro license is valid across all supported platforms. This means you can use the software on your Windows computer, Android phone, and Android tablet with no additional cost.
After purchase, you'll receive an email with your product key and download instructions that you can use to activate Piano Patrol Pro on all your compatible devices.