I want to stress this. At the time of this review, I had no affiliation with Pianote (hence me not plugging a link), but since posting, Pianote have seen the review and reached out to offer me an affiliate link for my viewers. I couldn't really say no to giving you guys a 30 day FREE trial, so was happy to do it. I genuinely like the product, so added the link and updated the title. Those facts didn't influence my video at the time of filming, because they hadn't happened yet! Check Pianote out - www.pianote.com/leviclay
My mother, an accomplished pianist, taught me piano at an early age. It's a gift she gave me that I will enjoy all my life. She later signed me up for private classical piano lessons where I did public recitals, etc. Some of the pieces I performed back then I still play. Later, I started writing music and took up the guitar as well. Got four songs published in Hollywood another is being considered in Nashville now. Much of what I have done is self-taught but much was from the early training my mother gave me. My mother who is now 80, has some memory problems but still enjoys playing the piano at her table . Like anything else, for those just starting out, practice makes perfect or at least it will make it better with time. Set a goal and stick to it, then plan your piano practice around that. Music is something that reduces stress and it is something that will be a joy to you all your life. 🎹🎸
I am a member of pianote, and I was a zero experienced. I love this online class, and feel like I will be able to play piano. It is nice to know what other people think this class.
@@CON5CRYPT Guess what! I'm still member of 3rd year. Pianote added more features and more selection of songs. And it is their promise that they don't delete any classes or video, so I can go back there. After I finished Method, I picked 30 days challenges, and picked song that I wanted to learn. I guess, after I learned 7-5 songs, if I don't keep playing the songs I knew, I start to forget. I try to stick to a couple songs that I don't want forget. If you are not facebook gropu member of pianote yet, it is a really nice place to share thought with other students.
A wonderful review, totally sold me on Pianote. Literally picking up my first piano this afternoon to learn from the beginning, and I'm already confident Pianote will be where I start my journey. Thanks Levi!
I also just started learning piano this year and came across the Pianote UA-cam channel and it's been a big help. My biggest hang-ups so far have been getting both hands to play together more fluidly, and getting dynamics down. I started working on their arrangement of Over the Rainbow which has been a lot of fun.
Fantastic Levi, I've played guitar for over 50yrs and have similarly embarked on a piano (or keyboard workstation) journey for the past year. Already well aware of the wonderful Lisa with Pianote, I totally agree with your nicely done endorsement.
Thank you so much for this review. I just bought a piano and discovered Lisa and the Pianote UA-cam the other day and have been using those videos to get me started. I love Lisa’s enthusiasm for the piano and teaching. After watching this I am no longer on the fence about signing up. Thanks again :)
i started about 8 months ago using simply piano which for a person zero music learning really helped but after 3 months i was done and wanted something more IE (harry conick jr.). so im glad i found your videos i was so close to the lifetime membership on sessions, and i have been watching pianote vids on youtube for a while wanting to try them out. lisa seemed very knowledgeable and i will be joining soon..thanks mate keep up the content
Great video. Thanks Levi. I just retired. I'm at 67 years old. I'm starting my adventure with the piano at my age. I love it. I'm super excited. Never too late, right? I'll be picking up my Roland FP-90X and S8 Tablet to use for instruction, this Saturday. You convinced me. I'll go with Pianote for my training. I go into this knowing that it is going to be hard fun work. I know I will need patience and perseverance. But, luckily, now I should be able to dedicate a few hours each day to this new endeavor. After a lifetime of Engineering, I know the left side of my head should be well developed. Now I get a chance to work on the right side.
Good to see you enjoying Pianote Levi...as an aside "piano technique made easy" is a very good and thorough pack on developing technique that I'm slowly working through in conjunction with the method.
This was just what I looked for. An experienced guitarist, who like me want to learn piano. Being retaired I now got the time to give the piano a chance. Your reviews of Playground vs Pianote made me try out the Pianote. Thanks for what seem, honestly reviews.
I have a musical education but it’s been decades since playing music on any instrument. I now want to focus on keyboard and am thinking of pianote. Your video has convinced me to give it a try. Thanks!
I have been looking for lessons. Stumbled on your playground review then found Pianote on you tube, I didn’t realise they were a subscription service until I saw this review. Definitely going to sign up. Great reviews 🙏
Hey Adey, if you're still waiting, Pianote have just reached out and offered a free trial to for all my followers - so jump on it! www.pianote.com/leviclay
Still in 2023 I agree with you. I started playing piano 2019 and I joined Pianote early 2020 right after the covid hit. I am not accompanying (too shy to do that perhaps) and in general the "richard-clayderman-approach" feels comfortable: chords & patterns on the LH and the melody with some harmony notes on RH. Unfortunately it has been difficult to find suitable sheet music of the songs that I want to play - most of them just are not suitable to play as-is. Pianote has been very sourceful when making my own transcriptions by giving me ideas during the QA live sessions and instuctional Bootcamp videos for left hand patterns and creating piano covers. Slowly learning how to do all that on the fly - improvised - based on only the leadsheets. But thank you for the review - could not agree more!
Yes, a community of guitarists taking on the piano! Thanks for this. I have a Yamaha C3 that is collecting dust. I'm glad to find a course that will help me dust it off and that will NOT interfere with my guitar playing--it will only enhance. Thank you!
The accompaniments section sold me on Pianote! This is what I’m looking for. I’ve been playing fingerstyle guitar for a while now, and love to sing, but I’ve never been able to do both. This will change in 2023 when I learn piano.
I didn’t realize that Pianote packs were included in the subscription and was wondering what the point of the subscription was. Thank you for clearing that up for me. I think I’ll be signing up.
You are delightful! Thank you for the thorough review, Ive been on the fence about Pianote for a few months but your trial will give me an insight into if it will work for me. Thanks!
Thanks Levi for the honest review! I’m currently teaching myself with SimplyPiano, which has been great practice. Pianote sounds like an awesome platform as well and may give it a shot.
WOW! what a fantastic review and comparison! I was already leaning toward Pianote, but your review clinched it for me! I will be signing up with them as soon as my piano arrives! Thanks for this!
Thank you for this Levi! I've already discovered Lisa's (Pianote) videos on UA-cam, and have been very impressed by both her and the program in general! I've been wanting to learn the piano for years (decades), but never had the means or opportunity to do so. The past month or two I have been considering getting rid of an old (partially functional) organ to make room for purchasing a new digital piano (Looking at the Yamaha YDP series). But after stumbling upon Pianote, and now this review of Pianote I am very excited to start a new journey. I can't wait to get that piano, and get a membership to Pianote and begin learning!
@@LeviClay The organ was my mom's thing, but before passing last year she hadn't been able to play it for about 18 years. so it has sat there unused. It is playable to a point, upper keyboard is good, some static here and there, more issues on the lower keyboard. Just looking for someone that wants it. I have it up on a couple marketplace sites listed for free. No takers yet.
Levi, my man, thanks for this review. I greatly appreciate this and the other online piano course review. I'm a former rythm guitar/lead vocals. Got tired of bands/gigging and got into into ukes and haven't picked up my axe in years. Going to start again (along with piano) so....just scribed. Thanks pal...
I'll definitely check it out once my 30-day trial with Playground Session ends. I'm trying to learn enough piano to help me with using a MIDI controller to create music. Not very ambitious or shooting for the stars, but Playground is still not enough. While it has so much potential, IMO the faults more than make up for the good things. Having to double count in my head for that stupid time signature they keep using is the biggest offender. I've done a big part of the rookie bootcamp and still feel like I'm just repeating the same concepts for different songs (which barely sound like the real songs to begin with). And then the FB group reminded me of a certain guitar brand's FB group. I admit I liked chasing 100% on everything, but eventually I felt like I was wasting time. I'm using Alfred's Adult All-In-One book (still on level 1) and much prefer that to Playground in terms of teaching quality. I'll keep checking in on PGS every few days to learn some faux-songs and test my timing, but that's about it.
Hey Bob, if you're still waiting, Pianote have just reached out and offered a free trial to for all my followers - so jump on it! www.pianote.com/leviclay
Just watched this video- I'm already subscribed to the Pianote yt channel because of some great videos I found on techniques - funny thing is that I didn't even know about the course!
Thanks Levi for such a great review on both Pianote and Playground Sessions. These videos have helped me tremendously! I'm BRAND NEW to everything piano / music related (only music class I've ever taken taught the recorder in grade school!) and at the age of 35 I've decided to take on a few different piano learning paths. One will be online, and I'm glad you've helped make my decision much easier 😁 Thanks again for your help, attention to transparency, and expertise in music education!!! Just subscribed, will be signing up with your link, and look forward to browsing the rest of your content.
Love the review, @LeviClay, thank you for that. You helped me decide to.....try on my own first and then see. Anyway, I wanted to ask about the song you were playing in the very beginning of the video. Would you be willing to share a reference what it is? I have absolutely no clue, but like it and think it might be a great piece to learn in my early journey....
@@LeviClay Ohh, nice one. I am also having some "tunes" in my mind to motivate myself which pieces I would love to play one day..... Thank you for your prompt reply. Cheers...
Great review I have been playing a piano for just over a year and tried some apps but didn't like the game like interface so this service looks to be something really great.
Hey Dahv, if you're still waiting, Pianote have just reached out and offered a free trial to for all my followers - so jump on it! www.pianote.com/leviclay
I appreciate the effort and you seem like a genuinely nice fellow. But for me, the whole presentation was too long and did not help me decide whether to try Pianote. Perhaps you could do a short video demonstrating exactly how you use the website and access lessons and all that. Like a "how to" video: First do this, then turn this on, then follow this lesson, then... and so on. Just a thought. Thanks!
@@LeviClayYeah, I think I was looking for kind of a combo. A review, but one that goes through the various features and shows them while saying what they like/don't like about that feature. Not a tutorial per se, but a review that helps me decide whether I want to try it or not. I actually found such a review for one of the app-based programs, and I'm leaning towards that one. Like I said though, you came across as very pleasant, engaging, and honest, which is why I watched nearly the whole video. 🙂 Love your passion for learning music too.
@@LeviClay I actually bought a yearly subscription to pianote. They are running a special. Thanks again. I am a beginner piano player. I have play percussion and the accordion.
For anyone watching this, November 2022, Pianote has combined all of their content (Drumeo, Pianote, Guitario and Singeo) into one unbelievable site called Musora! Now with your membership you get all of their platforms! What a great deal!
This is great, thanks. Very interested in pianote and as a guitarist and bass player myself, hoping to make good progress. But, just watching their webinar I notice the example that was played on day 20 of the beginner lessons, that root position chords were still being played. This to me seems counter productive as I understand that inversions make the fingering easier (as they do on guitar). I'm asking if you know at what point inversions are introduced (if at all!).....many thanks.
Day 20 of being a beginner is still day 20 of being a beginner. Progress shouldn’t be rushed. If you know inversions, apply them. But they’re not needed for beginners who know nothing for at least a month!
Hey Levi, this video is great! I was wondering what your opinion is on pianote for someone looking for mostly a classical education to play mostly classical music. I personally prefer classisical and just wanted to know is pianot worth it?
One of my favorite bands is Evanescence and I love Amy Lee when she rocks out on the piano and it makes me want to learn piano. Your review of this service has me fired up and ready to learn! Easiest $197 I ever dropped in my life
Hi, I’m a guitarist as well (31 years), and also wanted to learn piano due to increase in possibilities in song writing. Playground session looked great (I’m not sure if review websites or youtube channels are affiliated with playground session, but I didn’t see lots of negative reviews on them) . Anyway, I tried the trial version, then bought it for a year! My my, my worst mistake! After 2 weeks, I realized it’s not for me. How would playing songs right from the get-go, or reading sheets help me when I write my own songs. Like you said, i would sing a melody and i can’t follow my melody with chords, etc on the piano like I would normally do with a guitar. I would like to understand the possibilities in piano chords and then fiddle around with some tones (e.g like some kinda of melody). Thus just look at my keyboard/piano take it from there based on an idea I have. I’m not sure if Pianote could help me with that. I’m sure Playground sessions doesn’t. Do you think that it would?
Hello Levi thank you for this honest review! I just turned 31, learning piano has been a goal of mine I have put off for many years. I recently decided to stop putting it off. I have very simple and achievable goals, I just have one question, how well of a job does Pianote teach reading sheet music? Obviously this is something you are fluent in, but as an instructor, how well would you say it could teach a beginner? Thank you!
Pianote does a great job of that, I’d actually argue that as a more advanced player Pianote is lacking, it’s designed for beginners. What I would consider though… is reading for you? I’m not saying the answer to that is yes, but really think about what your goals on the piano, and is using that time on learning to read time well spent compared to using the same energy on your ears? For me, reading on the piano is something that isn’t part of the plan.
@@LeviClay Thank you for the reply! Yes reading is a big part of my goals, however, every advanced player has told me to make sure I train my ear as well. Including my Grandfather who has been playing the guitar since the early 1960s haha, so I will make sure to do both!
Thanks for the review. I was not even aware of Pianote. I have experience on guitar and decided to try and learn keyboard. I have a midi keyboard (Roland Juno-Di) that has been hanging around a long time. Does it make sense to start with the boot camp on Playground sessions which does note detection and then move to Pianote? Or, would it be more effective to just start off with pianote?
Thank you for you review, I agreed with your playground sessions review, so I trusted this review and signed up. Unfortunately I am disappointed in Pianote and predict I will cancel my membership after two months, max. I am frustrated with their Methods course (except for the early lesson on Chord Progression, which I never understood until now,) because it seems to skip learning the basic C scale, treble and bass clef, and it seems to be for people who can watch a video and follow along. I need to see and follow along with sheet music. Chord sheets don't tell me when to anticipate playing the next chord. My favorite learning tools are "Alfred Self-Teaching Adult Piano Course," (absolutely essential!) and then Playground Sessions' Bootcamp for Rookies. After that Pianote Method. I don't know what will be next....
wait this is neither a telecaster nor an ormsby?! Jokes aside, great video about a service i didn't know existed. I've told myself for years i should sit down and learn piano properly. I don't think now is the time for me, but i'll be sure to check out this service when i finally feel like i have the time and motivation(and a proper keyboard with weighted keys, i hate playing on my cheap midi keyboard)
Hello, do you recommend the Lifetime Membership? I want to play for my own enjoyment and eventually I like to play gospel and maybe some compositions. Please advise, thanks!
I like what Pianote offers for instruction. However, I have an 11 yo who loves games. I'm thinking of using Pianote for teaching along with software that hooks up to the piano (Playground, Flowkey, etc.) to add the gaming element she responds to. Do you think that would confuse things? What do you think would make a good compliment to Pianote?
Hey Laura I know where you're coming from, and PGS would be good for that. The only thing I'll add is that music isn't a game, so there's no 1:1 comparison. Apps that you plug into don't detect dynamics or pedal usage. You're essentially training yourself to use your eyes and have a program tell you when you're right. Music requires the ears.
@@LeviClay Levi, I totally get the bit about ears. But I felt, based on your PGS review, there are some elements of the gamification style that a kid used to immediate feedback would appreciate. I'm gonna give both a try on a trial basis. Let her decide which she likes before we commit. Thanks for both of your reviews.
Hey Becky, if you're still waiting, Pianote have just reached out and offered a free trial to for all my followers - so jump on it! www.pianote.com/leviclay
Hey man do you think this is better than going to a piano tutor who charges $40-$50 per class? I feel like this is better because you can go at your own pace, can rewatch videos as oppose to being limited to once a week lessons. Is there something lessons has that pianote doesnt as far as advantages? Thanks
There are always advantages of having a teacher, no doubt. Someone being able to say “stop, no, you’re doing that wrong” is awesome. In both Pianote and PGS group I witness people with TERRIBLE wrist posture regularly. Saying that, I still don’t have a teacher… so take from that what you will 😂
Hey @Levi Clay i was wondering. I see that pianote foundations are supposed to be a legacy course, judging from your video. So the method course is supposed to replace that, or am i totally wrong here ?
@@LeviClay I appreciate the reply. Its a swift one. I also asked pianote, i'm curious what their reply will be. There is a sale going on right now on their site, a really good deal. They include the foundation books in it for free, but if that is legacy already, i don't really see the point. Since you are a member, are these 2 courses vastly different to each other ?
Now that I can’t answer as I’ve not watched the legacy versions, but information doesn’t change, the quality of presentation does. That’s why there’s a new version. A book is a book. Jump on it!
Is this good for complete beginners, like for learning how to read sheet music, learning chords, octaves and arpeggios? I still need to work on my sheet reading ability
Hey. Just read your PGS review. I am one week in. 30 year lead guitarist here in a band. 2/4 time? Seriously? But how will Pianote provide feedback if it's not midi interfaced. Isn't it like comparing apples to oranges? I am a blues/rock trained player. Is Pianote for me? I don't really care to read music although I have a high level of theory knowledge. My main goal is to play blues on piano. I have a Hammond just waiting for me. Advice?
Not even 2/4… that would make too much sense. 4/2! You’ve been playing 30 years, you don’t need feedback. You’ll be able to tell when you’re playing something correctly. Plus, midi feedback is useless when it comes to things like pedals and dynamics. Having everything played on video by a human beats PGS having midi piano. Any day!
@@LeviClay I wanna hear about this product, not other products. By all means do a comparison video, but a review, should be a review. Just some honest feedback dude. Take it or leave it.
@@LeviClay does it have app and are they same for learning or app is easier to use. Also app does it need be connected to internet or can download and use it
At the time of the review I had no relationship with them whatsoever other than being a customer. I don’t mention a trial or anything in the video for that reason. A few months later they offered my subscribers a free trial deal so I added in a link and changed the title a bit to draw attention to something I obviously don’t mention in the video.
@@LeviClay Ok, just wanted to inquire because 99 percent of the time companies will give a link to a specific creator so they can track how many sign ups are acquired through the video so... they can pay said creator as an affiliate. IMO being an affiliate can influence a review, even though payment is made after the fact.
@@crazycatcompilationchannel9114 oh absolutely! I can assure you though (and I think that’s evident in the actual video) my relationship with Pianote came because they saw my review and liked how positive I was on it. Around this period I tried a couple of services and made reviews (my other big review being playground sessions), I paid for access to everything. On reflection though, your comment is fair, and I'm updating the video description now for clarification!
@@LeviClay Thanks for replying. This makes a lot more sense to me. Every couple of years UA-camr's get caught up in lying about having relationships with companies so I wanted to make sure you were on the up and up. You seem like a good guy who cares about his audience!
@@crazycatcompilationchannel9114 oh dude! I’m often calling people out on it. I absolutely hate it. I simply won’t lie to my audience, if I don’t like something I’m happy to say it even if it destroys a relationship I had or could have had with a company. I used to work with guitar pro but trashed GP7, and I maybe could have worked with playground sessions, but I thought their business was trash. I’m glad you made this point though, because I hate the thought that other people had the same question but just didn’t ask it!
congratulations. Now you should be able to get into the secret passage at the Bar in the Spencer mansion without waiting for Rebecca to fully master the song. .... sorry for the lame reference to Resident Evil ... Anyway, I just subscribed to Pianote last month, and I can say with confident ... I can give 1000 out of 10 just because of Lisa alone!! I found her way of explaining thing easy to understand. She is very lovely too to be honest. I'm still at Level 3 (chord) and haven't submit any video. Will be doing so in the future. I think the student video review and the community is why Pianote is so good, and probably why the subscription is quite expensive too! PS. funny enough I am also trying to play the FF interlude. Haven't go into the melody yet, but I use the chord progression in the chord practice. I think I have the score lying somewhere and will be learning the song properly later.
I want to stress this. At the time of this review, I had no affiliation with Pianote (hence me not plugging a link), but since posting, Pianote have seen the review and reached out to offer me an affiliate link for my viewers. I couldn't really say no to giving you guys a 30 day FREE trial, so was happy to do it. I genuinely like the product, so added the link and updated the title. Those facts didn't influence my video at the time of filming, because they hadn't happened yet!
Check Pianote out - www.pianote.com/leviclay
My mother, an accomplished pianist, taught me piano at an early age. It's a gift she gave me that I will enjoy all my life. She later signed me up for private classical piano lessons where I did public recitals, etc. Some of the pieces I performed back then I still play. Later, I started writing music and took up the guitar as well. Got four songs published in Hollywood another is being considered in Nashville now. Much of what I have done is self-taught but much was from the early training my mother gave me. My mother who is now 80, has some memory problems but still enjoys playing the piano at her table . Like anything else, for those just starting out, practice makes perfect or at least it will make it better with time. Set a goal and stick to it, then plan your piano practice around that. Music is something that reduces stress and it is something that will be a joy to you all your life. 🎹🎸
I am a member of pianote, and I was a zero experienced. I love this online class, and feel like I will be able to play piano. It is nice to know what other people think this class.
2 years later response. I am completely new to piano and on week 2. Did you continue with pianote? What had your progress been in 2 years?
@@CON5CRYPT Guess what! I'm still member of 3rd year. Pianote added more features and more selection of songs. And it is their promise that they don't delete any classes or video, so I can go back there. After I finished Method, I picked 30 days challenges, and picked song that I wanted to learn. I guess, after I learned 7-5 songs, if I don't keep playing the songs I knew, I start to forget. I try to stick to a couple songs that I don't want forget. If you are not facebook gropu member of pianote yet, it is a really nice place to share thought with other students.
A wonderful review, totally sold me on Pianote. Literally picking up my first piano this afternoon to learn from the beginning, and I'm already confident Pianote will be where I start my journey. Thanks Levi!
Enjoy practicing
buy my studio bundle .. i am selling for peanuts
How’s your experience with Pianote going? I’m going to get a keyboard this afternoon, and thinking about getting Pianote also.
@@mikec1571 I recommend it. They have a refund policy too.
I also just started learning piano this year and came across the Pianote UA-cam channel and it's been a big help. My biggest hang-ups so far have been getting both hands to play together more fluidly, and getting dynamics down. I started working on their arrangement of Over the Rainbow which has been a lot of fun.
Fantastic Levi, I've played guitar for over 50yrs and have similarly embarked on a piano (or keyboard workstation) journey for the past year. Already well aware of the wonderful Lisa with Pianote, I totally agree with your nicely done endorsement.
Just signed up for Pianote last week. I liked it more than playground sessions due to the better instruction.
Playground sessions made me feel I’m alone in this. Will he signing up for pianote soon!
Thank you so much for this review. I just bought a piano and discovered Lisa and the Pianote UA-cam the other day and have been using those videos to get me started. I love Lisa’s enthusiasm for the piano and teaching. After watching this I am no longer on the fence about signing up. Thanks again :)
Make sure to use that link! 😂
i started about 8 months ago using simply piano which for a person zero music learning really helped but after 3 months i was done and wanted something more IE (harry conick jr.). so im glad i found your videos i was so close to the lifetime membership on sessions, and i have been watching pianote vids on youtube for a while wanting to try them out. lisa seemed very knowledgeable and i will be joining soon..thanks mate keep up the content
Great video. Thanks Levi.
I just retired. I'm at 67 years old. I'm starting my adventure with the piano at my age. I love it. I'm super excited. Never too late, right?
I'll be picking up my Roland FP-90X and S8 Tablet to use for instruction, this Saturday.
You convinced me. I'll go with Pianote for my training.
I go into this knowing that it is going to be hard fun work. I know I will need patience and perseverance. But, luckily, now I should be able to dedicate a few hours each day to this new endeavor.
After a lifetime of Engineering, I know the left side of my head should be well developed. Now I get a chance to work on the right side.
A mix of simply piano as a sight reading learning tool and pianote as a companion for more in depth explanations did the job for me.
Good to see you enjoying Pianote Levi...as an aside "piano technique made easy" is a very good and thorough pack on developing technique that I'm slowly working through in conjunction with the method.
Thanks Levi. As a fellow guitarist who has just purchased a new digital piano and looking to get playing this is invaluable! Great stuff mate 👍
Awesome! Make sure to use that link, and you can always tag me in the facebook group to keep in touch on our journey together! :D
This was just what I looked for. An experienced guitarist, who like me want to learn piano. Being retaired I now got the time to give the piano a chance. Your reviews of Playground vs Pianote made me try out the Pianote. Thanks for what seem, honestly reviews.
You’re very welcome! Pianote works, I still play piano every day and am getting better and better
I have a musical education but it’s been decades since playing music on any instrument. I now want to focus on keyboard and am thinking of pianote. Your video has convinced me to give it a try. Thanks!
I have been looking for lessons. Stumbled on your playground review then found Pianote on you tube, I didn’t realise they were a subscription service until I saw this review. Definitely going to sign up. Great reviews 🙏
Hey Adey, if you're still waiting, Pianote have just reached out and offered a free trial to for all my followers - so jump on it!
www.pianote.com/leviclay
Still in 2023 I agree with you. I started playing piano 2019 and I joined Pianote early 2020 right after the covid hit. I am not accompanying (too shy to do that perhaps) and in general the "richard-clayderman-approach" feels comfortable: chords & patterns on the LH and the melody with some harmony notes on RH. Unfortunately it has been difficult to find suitable sheet music of the songs that I want to play - most of them just are not suitable to play as-is. Pianote has been very sourceful when making my own transcriptions by giving me ideas during the QA live sessions and instuctional Bootcamp videos for left hand patterns and creating piano covers. Slowly learning how to do all that on the fly - improvised - based on only the leadsheets. But thank you for the review - could not agree more!
Thanks so much for this, I’m just working through on the free trial and it’s sooooo good
Yes, a community of guitarists taking on the piano! Thanks for this. I have a Yamaha C3 that is collecting dust. I'm glad to find a course that will help me dust it off and that will NOT interfere with my guitar playing--it will only enhance. Thank you!
The accompaniments section sold me on Pianote! This is what I’m looking for. I’ve been playing fingerstyle guitar for a while now, and love to sing, but I’ve never been able to do both. This will change in 2023 when I learn piano.
Pianote has changed my life and I am ever so grateful!!! Lifetime member and love it! 🎶🎶🎶
I didn’t realize that Pianote packs were included in the subscription and was wondering what the point of the subscription was. Thank you for clearing that up for me. I think I’ll be signing up.
Enjoy Michael!
You are delightful! Thank you for the thorough review, Ive been on the fence about Pianote for a few months but your trial will give me an insight into if it will work for me. Thanks!
Feel free to let me know how you get on!
Cheers Levi, this video has given me the Boot up the Hole I needed to get back to practicing on the keys. :)
if you're still waiting, Pianote have just reached out and offered a free trial to for all my followers - so jump on it!
www.pianote.com/leviclay
Great review, been using the UA-cam vids until now but you have guided me to become a member of Pianote, thank you.
Astonishing review!! Have my like!!
Thanks Levi for the honest review! I’m currently teaching myself with SimplyPiano, which has been great practice. Pianote sounds like an awesome platform as well and may give it a shot.
I put up a review of Simply just last week! :)
I do love Pianote. I'm thinking I'm also going to sign up for Playground Sessions though, too - I think both ways of learning would benefit me.
WOW! what a fantastic review and comparison! I was already leaning toward Pianote, but your review clinched it for me! I will be signing up with them as soon as my piano arrives! Thanks for this!
Thanks for your review, gonna try it using your link!!
Thanks so much JAL - I'm sure you'll have a blast - feel free to tag me in the facebook group if you need a friend in there :)
Thank you for this Levi! I've already discovered Lisa's (Pianote) videos on UA-cam, and have been very impressed by both her and the program in general! I've been wanting to learn the piano for years (decades), but never had the means or opportunity to do so. The past month or two I have been considering getting rid of an old (partially functional) organ to make room for purchasing a new digital piano (Looking at the Yamaha YDP series). But after stumbling upon Pianote, and now this review of Pianote I am very excited to start a new journey. I can't wait to get that piano, and get a membership to Pianote and begin learning!
Fantastic news! Grab a trial and you’ll have a blast. Shame about the organ though, I’ve recently turned my attention to a bit of B3!
@@LeviClay The organ was my mom's thing, but before passing last year she hadn't been able to play it for about 18 years. so it has sat there unused. It is playable to a point, upper keyboard is good, some static here and there, more issues on the lower keyboard. Just looking for someone that wants it. I have it up on a couple marketplace sites listed for free. No takers yet.
Levi, my man, thanks for this review. I greatly appreciate this and the other online piano course review. I'm a former rythm guitar/lead vocals. Got tired of bands/gigging and got into into ukes and haven't picked up my axe in years. Going to start again (along with piano) so....just scribed. Thanks pal...
Very welcome sir! I’m a month into another site which I’ll be making a video on at some point too
@@LeviClay uh oh, lol, was going to join pianote due, in part, to your reccomendation....
@@chrisbergonzi7977 oh no, Pianote is definitely the one. The new site I’m looking at is jazz, and not best for beginners at all.
@@LeviClay excellent...thanks m8.
Thanks for this review. Been playing piano for quite some time already but Just got my 7 day trial to give it a go and brush up on some stuff
7 day? Why not my 30 day?!
@@LeviClay good point x) guess I’m making a new account XD
I'll definitely check it out once my 30-day trial with Playground Session ends. I'm trying to learn enough piano to help me with using a MIDI controller to create music. Not very ambitious or shooting for the stars, but Playground is still not enough. While it has so much potential, IMO the faults more than make up for the good things. Having to double count in my head for that stupid time signature they keep using is the biggest offender. I've done a big part of the rookie bootcamp and still feel like I'm just repeating the same concepts for different songs (which barely sound like the real songs to begin with). And then the FB group reminded me of a certain guitar brand's FB group. I admit I liked chasing 100% on everything, but eventually I felt like I was wasting time. I'm using Alfred's Adult All-In-One book (still on level 1) and much prefer that to Playground in terms of teaching quality. I'll keep checking in on PGS every few days to learn some faux-songs and test my timing, but that's about it.
Yeah, I feel you. It gave me a lot more confidence in my reading, but I’ve not logged on in weeks
I think I am sold on painote! Well, subscribed.. hahaha. I was about to go buy into playground sessions but I am very happy you done a review of both
Thanks Levi. I'm signing up. VERY informative and well done review!
Hey Bob, if you're still waiting, Pianote have just reached out and offered a free trial to for all my followers - so jump on it!
www.pianote.com/leviclay
Love this review!!!!!!
Just watched this video- I'm already subscribed to the Pianote yt channel because of some great videos I found on techniques - funny thing is that I didn't even know about the course!
Thanks Levi for such a great review on both Pianote and Playground Sessions. These videos have helped me tremendously!
I'm BRAND NEW to everything piano / music related (only music class I've ever taken taught the recorder in grade school!) and at the age of 35 I've decided to take on a few different piano learning paths. One will be online, and I'm glad you've helped make my decision much easier 😁
Thanks again for your help, attention to transparency, and expertise in music education!!! Just subscribed, will be signing up with your link, and look forward to browsing the rest of your content.
I'm surprised with the lack of reviews on youtube for Pianote.
Love the review, @LeviClay, thank you for that. You helped me decide to.....try on my own first and then see. Anyway, I wanted to ask about the song you were playing in the very beginning of the video. Would you be willing to share a reference what it is? I have absolutely no clue, but like it and think it might be a great piece to learn in my early journey....
It’s the prelude from one of the first final fantasy games. I have a lot of video game scores and used them to get me started/motivated
@@LeviClay Ohh, nice one. I am also having some "tunes" in my mind to motivate myself which pieces I would love to play one day..... Thank you for your prompt reply. Cheers...
Thanks for this great review. just heard about it and this really helps with my decision.
If you're still waiting, Pianote have just reached out and offered a free trial for all my followers - so jump on it!
www.pianote.com/leviclay
@@LeviClay Thanks... I was just about to join and saw your note on this.. so signed up with your link for free trial. cheers
@@davegrice9546 thanks - Supports the channel :)
Very helpful, thanks fella 😊
Nice job so far with the first movement of Moonlight Sonata! Try to bring out the melody more- you've got big hands- it shouldn't be a stretch :)
Great review I have been playing a piano for just over a year and tried some apps but didn't like the game like interface so this service looks to be something really great.
I’m at the year mark myself now, this has kept me engaged
Very inspiring words! I'm signing up!
Hey Dahv, if you're still waiting, Pianote have just reached out and offered a free trial to for all my followers - so jump on it!
www.pianote.com/leviclay
currently learning piano on my own. i'll most likely sign up for this now. looks what i need
if you're still waiting, Pianote have just reached out and offered a free trial to for all my followers - so jump on it!
www.pianote.com/leviclay
I appreciate the effort and you seem like a genuinely nice fellow. But for me, the whole presentation was too long and did not help me decide whether to try Pianote. Perhaps you could do a short video demonstrating exactly how you use the website and access lessons and all that. Like a "how to" video: First do this, then turn this on, then follow this lesson, then... and so on. Just a thought. Thanks!
Sounds like you want Pianote site tutorials, not a review
@@LeviClayYeah, I think I was looking for kind of a combo. A review, but one that goes through the various features and shows them while saying what they like/don't like about that feature. Not a tutorial per se, but a review that helps me decide whether I want to try it or not. I actually found such a review for one of the app-based programs, and I'm leaning towards that one. Like I said though, you came across as very pleasant, engaging, and honest, which is why I watched nearly the whole video. 🙂 Love your passion for learning music too.
This was a great video. Thank you so much
Very welcome!
@@LeviClay I actually bought a yearly subscription to pianote. They are running a special. Thanks again. I am a beginner piano player. I have play percussion and the accordion.
@@Alexthedog777 no problem! Get active in the Facebook group and feel free to tag me any time
For anyone watching this, November 2022, Pianote has combined all of their content (Drumeo, Pianote, Guitario and Singeo) into one unbelievable site called Musora! Now with your membership you get all of their platforms! What a great deal!
We're planning an update video in the new year :)
This is great, thanks. Very interested in pianote and as a guitarist and bass player myself, hoping to make good progress. But, just watching their webinar I notice the example that was played on day 20 of the beginner lessons, that root position chords were still being played. This to me seems counter productive as I understand that inversions make the fingering easier (as they do on guitar). I'm asking if you know at what point inversions are introduced (if at all!).....many thanks.
Day 20 of being a beginner is still day 20 of being a beginner. Progress shouldn’t be rushed.
If you know inversions, apply them. But they’re not needed for beginners who know nothing for at least a month!
Thanks for this nice review! I am planning to continue learning piano with my son of 7 years.
Is Pianote suitable for younger learners?
Yeah, 7 years would be fine, Lisa is the type of influence you’d want on a younger person, her personality is infectious!
I have been wanting to learn piano for a few years now and this video has put me over the edge. Thanks mate!
This pleases me so much
Just enrolled with Lisa! Thanks for your video here!
Hope you have a blast James!
Yay.... So glad I made the right decision. I have a lifetime membership to Pianote.
just now checking out online piano learning, im a complete beginner, hope i like it
I'm still playing and love it more than ever
Hey Levi, this video is great! I was wondering what your opinion is on pianote for someone looking for mostly a classical education to play mostly classical music. I personally prefer classisical and just wanted to know is pianot worth it?
I would say there are other sources out there for that. Pianote is incredible, and it touches on classical, but that’s not the focus
Levi Clayderman
But seriously, it seems a cool site. I wonder if it’s ok for someone who only has a 49key midi controller rather than 88key piano 🤔
Oh absolutely! The accompaniment lessons will give you the skills to get by using what you have
Luv the final fantasy intro 🙌🏻
Joining tomorrow
One of my favorite bands is Evanescence and I love Amy Lee when she rocks out on the piano and it makes me want to learn piano.
Your review of this service has me fired up and ready to learn! Easiest $197 I ever dropped in my life
there's a nice lesson for My Immortal - let me know how you get on
Hi, I’m a guitarist as well (31 years), and also wanted to learn piano due to increase in possibilities in song writing.
Playground session looked great (I’m not sure if review websites or youtube channels are affiliated with playground session, but I didn’t see lots of negative reviews on them) . Anyway, I tried the trial version, then bought it for a year! My my, my worst mistake! After 2 weeks, I realized it’s not for me. How would playing songs right from the get-go, or reading sheets help me when I write my own songs. Like you said, i would sing a melody and i can’t follow my melody with chords, etc on the piano like I would normally do with a guitar.
I would like to understand the possibilities in piano chords and then fiddle around with some tones (e.g like some kinda of melody). Thus just look at my keyboard/piano take it from there based on an idea I have. I’m not sure if Pianote could help me with that. I’m sure Playground sessions doesn’t.
Do you think that it would?
Pianote absolutely would! Stalk their UA-cam for a while to get a feel. I’ll be doing another video on them soon!
Pianote = Big piano (in Spanish)
Jeje, SI
Hello Levi thank you for this honest review! I just turned 31, learning piano has been a goal of mine I have put off for many years. I recently decided to stop putting it off. I have very simple and achievable goals, I just have one question, how well of a job does Pianote teach reading sheet music? Obviously this is something you are fluent in, but as an instructor, how well would you say it could teach a beginner? Thank you!
Pianote does a great job of that, I’d actually argue that as a more advanced player Pianote is lacking, it’s designed for beginners.
What I would consider though… is reading for you? I’m not saying the answer to that is yes, but really think about what your goals on the piano, and is using that time on learning to read time well spent compared to using the same energy on your ears?
For me, reading on the piano is something that isn’t part of the plan.
@@LeviClay Thank you for the reply! Yes reading is a big part of my goals, however, every advanced player has told me to make sure I train my ear as well. Including my Grandfather who has been playing the guitar since the early 1960s haha, so I will make sure to do both!
Thanks for the review. I was not even aware of Pianote. I have experience on guitar and decided to try and learn keyboard. I have a midi keyboard (Roland Juno-Di) that has been hanging around a long time. Does it make sense to start with the boot camp on Playground sessions which does note detection and then move to Pianote? Or, would it be more effective to just start off with pianote?
If you have experience on the guitar, PGS is worthless. MIDI detection sounds impressive until you remember it doesn’t detect dynamics or pedal use
Thank you for you review, I agreed with your playground sessions review, so I trusted this review and signed up. Unfortunately I am disappointed in Pianote and predict I will cancel my membership after two months, max.
I am frustrated with their Methods course (except for the early lesson on Chord Progression, which I never understood until now,) because it seems to skip learning the basic C scale, treble and bass clef, and it seems to be for people who can watch a video and follow along. I need to see and follow along with sheet music. Chord sheets don't tell me when to anticipate playing the next chord.
My favorite learning tools are "Alfred Self-Teaching Adult Piano Course," (absolutely essential!) and then Playground Sessions' Bootcamp for Rookies. After that Pianote Method. I don't know what will be next....
It sounds like you're after a classical method, one that focuses on reading over listening. Nothing wrong with that, just not what I want.
When the lessons start, does it Force you to go Use the app? Or can you learn right on the website with windows?
you don't ever need the app
wait this is neither a telecaster nor an ormsby?!
Jokes aside, great video about a service i didn't know existed. I've told myself for years i should sit down and learn piano properly. I don't think now is the time for me, but i'll be sure to check out this service when i finally feel like i have the time and motivation(and a proper keyboard with weighted keys, i hate playing on my cheap midi keyboard)
I feel you there man! Even the weighted keys on Melisa’s budget keyboard feel horrible compared to my big Roland
You sold me. Thanks
You're an inspiration
You’re too kind
I couldn't agree more. I have just upgraded to a lifetime membership of Pianote x
Are the lifetimes back up for purchase??
@@LeviClay I upgraded my membership as I was within my first 90 days of membership. Apart from that I don't know any other rules.
Thanks for the review and my feedback is please make your videos shorter and more focussed on the subject thanks
Hello, do you recommend the Lifetime Membership? I want to play for my own enjoyment and eventually I like to play gospel and maybe some compositions. Please advise, thanks!
I have a lifetime membership. Best decision I made last year.
I need to check this out 😎
I like what Pianote offers for instruction. However, I have an 11 yo who loves games. I'm thinking of using Pianote for teaching along with software that hooks up to the piano (Playground, Flowkey, etc.) to add the gaming element she responds to. Do you think that would confuse things? What do you think would make a good compliment to Pianote?
Hey Laura
I know where you're coming from, and PGS would be good for that. The only thing I'll add is that music isn't a game, so there's no 1:1 comparison. Apps that you plug into don't detect dynamics or pedal usage. You're essentially training yourself to use your eyes and have a program tell you when you're right. Music requires the ears.
@@LeviClay Levi, I totally get the bit about ears. But I felt, based on your PGS review, there are some elements of the gamification style that a kid used to immediate feedback would appreciate. I'm gonna give both a try on a trial basis. Let her decide which she likes before we commit. Thanks for both of your reviews.
Definitely signing up! I have very basic skills on the piano but I want to get better! Thanks
Hey Becky, if you're still waiting, Pianote have just reached out and offered a free trial to for all my followers - so jump on it!
www.pianote.com/leviclay
@@LeviClay thanks! 🙏🏾
@@beckybridgeman1711 any time! Good luck on your journey and don’t be afraid to tag me in their group on Facebook if you have any questions!
Hey man do you think this is better than going to a piano tutor who charges $40-$50 per class? I feel like this is better because you can go at your own pace, can rewatch videos as oppose to being limited to once a week lessons. Is there something lessons has that pianote doesnt as far as advantages? Thanks
There are always advantages of having a teacher, no doubt. Someone being able to say “stop, no, you’re doing that wrong” is awesome.
In both Pianote and PGS group I witness people with TERRIBLE wrist posture regularly.
Saying that, I still don’t have a teacher… so take from that what you will 😂
Word up for the final fantasy prelude
Hey @Levi Clay i was wondering. I see that pianote foundations are supposed to be a legacy course, judging from your video. So the method course is supposed to replace that, or am i totally wrong here ?
You’re correct
@@LeviClay I appreciate the reply. Its a swift one. I also asked pianote, i'm curious what their reply will be. There is a sale going on right now on their site, a really good deal. They include the foundation books in it for free, but if that is legacy already, i don't really see the point. Since you are a member, are these 2 courses vastly different to each other ?
Now that I can’t answer as I’ve not watched the legacy versions, but information doesn’t change, the quality of presentation does. That’s why there’s a new version. A book is a book. Jump on it!
Trying to sign up for the lifetime membership, but it says no longer available. Any idea how to sign up for the same? Thanks for the in-depth review!
The lifetime memberships are only open a couple of times a year
That’s a review! 👍
Is this good for complete beginners, like for learning how to read sheet music, learning chords, octaves and arpeggios? I still need to work on my sheet reading ability
Absolutely! I’d say it’s primary focus is beginners!
@@LeviClay Thanks for still responding to comments, I'm currently gonna sign up using the 30 day free trial to see how I like it.
Hey. Just read your PGS review. I am one week in. 30 year lead guitarist here in a band. 2/4 time? Seriously?
But how will Pianote provide feedback if it's not midi interfaced. Isn't it like comparing apples to oranges?
I am a blues/rock trained player. Is Pianote for me? I don't really care to read music although I have a high level of theory knowledge.
My main goal is to play blues on piano. I have a Hammond just waiting for me. Advice?
Not even 2/4… that would make too much sense. 4/2!
You’ve been playing 30 years, you don’t need feedback. You’ll be able to tell when you’re playing something correctly. Plus, midi feedback is useless when it comes to things like pedals and dynamics.
Having everything played on video by a human beats PGS having midi piano. Any day!
Thank you for this video and the one on Playground Sessions. Very informative and motivating
Is the song in the beginning is final fantasy prelude? Hahaha
it is! haha
Go easy on me... I'd only been playing a few weeks!
what books would you recommend for the piano?
I mainly used video. And even then, as my starting level was high, my book recommendations will be harder books. I enjoyed boogie woogie hannon
Will these services help me to play by ear in the long run?
If you make it your focus, absolutely
Any suggestions for something similar for guitar?
There’s more guitar websites out there than I can possibly keep track of. Justin Guitar is a good place to start.
Is Pianote still offering the first month free thru your link? I'm late to the party.
Yep!
Can I make a suggestion, your review should be based on what Pianote is, not what Playground Session isn't! Thanks for the review though.
How can you review something and pretend you’ve not used other things? I tell you exactly what Pianote is great, and the competition isn’t
@@LeviClay I wanna hear about this product, not other products. By all means do a comparison video, but a review, should be a review. Just some honest feedback dude. Take it or leave it.
@@misfit1978 did you not hear about this product?
@@LeviClay Sure. Don't worry. Review is amazing, definitely could not be improved.
@@misfit1978 finally, we’re on the same page 👍🏻
What keyboard are you using?
I have several now, a Roland lx705, a Nord electro 6, a viscount legend
Is pianote the best of all the apps?
I’ve tried a few now and I ended up getting a lifetime membership with Pianote. Love it
didnt know you liked ff7
Do u need internet connection while using the app?
you can download lessons and store them to use them without the internet
@@LeviClay on laptop too
@@edwinbab705 that’s not an app, that’s a website
@@LeviClay does it have app and are they same for learning or app is easier to use. Also app does it need be connected to internet or can download and use it
They simplify songs which means they are not in the original key.
Im a published Hollywood songwriter. You don't need a master's degree to do it. Just life experience and talent.
Is this a paid promotion? How do you have your own promotion link and say you aren't being paid by them?
At the time of the review I had no relationship with them whatsoever other than being a customer. I don’t mention a trial or anything in the video for that reason. A few months later they offered my subscribers a free trial deal so I added in a link and changed the title a bit to draw attention to something I obviously don’t mention in the video.
@@LeviClay Ok, just wanted to inquire because 99 percent of the time companies will give a link to a specific creator so they can track how many sign ups are acquired through the video so... they can pay said creator as an affiliate. IMO being an affiliate can influence a review, even though payment is made after the fact.
@@crazycatcompilationchannel9114 oh absolutely! I can assure you though (and I think that’s evident in the actual video) my relationship with Pianote came because they saw my review and liked how positive I was on it.
Around this period I tried a couple of services and made reviews (my other big review being playground sessions), I paid for access to everything.
On reflection though, your comment is fair, and I'm updating the video description now for clarification!
@@LeviClay Thanks for replying. This makes a lot more sense to me. Every couple of years UA-camr's get caught up in lying about having relationships with companies so I wanted to make sure you were on the up and up. You seem like a good guy who cares about his audience!
@@crazycatcompilationchannel9114 oh dude! I’m often calling people out on it. I absolutely hate it. I simply won’t lie to my audience, if I don’t like something I’m happy to say it even if it destroys a relationship I had or could have had with a company. I used to work with guitar pro but trashed GP7, and I maybe could have worked with playground sessions, but I thought their business was trash.
I’m glad you made this point though, because I hate the thought that other people had the same question but just didn’t ask it!
congratulations. Now you should be able to get into the secret passage at the Bar in the Spencer mansion without waiting for Rebecca to fully master the song. .... sorry for the lame reference to Resident Evil ...
Anyway, I just subscribed to Pianote last month, and I can say with confident ... I can give 1000 out of 10 just because of Lisa alone!! I found her way of explaining thing easy to understand. She is very lovely too to be honest.
I'm still at Level 3 (chord) and haven't submit any video. Will be doing so in the future. I think the student video review and the community is why Pianote is so good, and probably why the subscription is quite expensive too!
PS. funny enough I am also trying to play the FF interlude. Haven't go into the melody yet, but I use the chord progression in the chord practice. I think I have the score lying somewhere and will be learning the song properly later.
I’m actually furious I didn’t make that joke. That was 100% the plan (it’s why I learned it) but I don’t script my videos, I just talk and I forgot 😂
It's 2023, do you still use pianote?
I do! I've also been using some of Simply Piano (which I also did a video in)
Hi Levi, how much import duty and tax were you charged on the $899 free gift, please?
What gift are you talking about?