By Mark T. Burke
Walter Beasley, Sound Production for Saxophone. I was really excited to download this app since I've been eager to investigate the use of APPs for applied instrumental instruction.
Overall, I have to say while the app provides some great instruction, it
is essentially a portal to videos, videos that are actually downloaded (and quiet large -- almost 400 MB). In it's early stages, it misses a few opportunities to provide really
powerful instruction, but I applaud the effort and look forward to seeing
how the app develops over time. Thank you Walter for taking a risk
and diving into a pond that few know what is swimming in it.
The APP is huge, almost 400MB, so be prepared to tie
up your iPad/Phone for a while. The app has a main menu that forces
landscape view and is small for the iPad. The main interface provides a
link to the instructional areas. Keep in mind, the instruction is aimed
at jazz sax playing. Walter covers a great set of topics, so most will
find a key area of interest.
The video quality, on a
scale of 1-5, with 1 being weak and 5 being fantastic, is a 3+. The
videos are shot in a space without distractions, however, they feel a
little confined. Visual aids are limited and this is where I feel a
real opportunity for growth exits. Creating surround visuals would turn
this app into a real powerhouse. Written instructions, charts and
procedural steps demonstrated on screen would be a great way to create a
real iPad learning environment and a way to build a premium app (as
compared to the iPhone version).
Sound quality is good with only a few instances where the dynamics of the sax are a bit too much for the audio capture system.
Walter also offers an app on Circular Breathing. I will write about that asa I review it.
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/sound-production-for-saxophone/id480838100?mt=8
In summary, my comments may sound harsh, but I believe as we all progress in the direction of app based and online resources, we will be held to high standards. A collaborative, non judgemental approach will help us build our presence in this industry. Congrats Walter...
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