Melodics is a program designed to improve your drumming skills. The platform helps you improve timing, rhythm, and synchronization. It offers lessons in different genres such as Hip Hop, Dubstep, Classic Break, EDM, House, etc. After each lesson, you get a score, allowing you to advance through different levels.
How to Get Started
The platform is compatible with a MIDI drum kit that you can connect to your computer to practice. If you don't have a kit, you can configure the keyboard keys to turn it into a drum set.
Once you have downloaded the program on your computer, simply click the Hamburger button (top left) and then select the lesson type from the menu. To start a session, just click the Play button (associated with the lesson). In the left side panel, you'll see all the tasks you need to perform in the lesson. In the right panel, you'll see the assigned keys for playing rhythms. For example, the Kick is assigned to the 'V' key and the Snare to the 'B' key.
Visual Timing and Scoring
Now you'll see the visual timing window, where rhythms scroll from right to left. Simply press the key assigned to the rhythm that appears on screen. Upon finishing the task, the environment gives you a score based on your performance. If the results are optimal, the program lets you move to the next level.
Additional Features
Other features include: the option to configure a metronome, take specific courses such as HipHop Basics, Rock Beats Paper, etc., select output devices and adjust latency manually, among others.
Lesson Library
Another great service is the ability to download more than 400 lessons from its website across different genres. Many lessons are free.
Final Thoughts
Melodics is truly a great drum learning program that helps you practice through a very visual interface. What stands out is its methodology that allows you to improve your percussion skills. It's available for free for Windows and Mac OS X. There are also commercial subscription plans.
