In order to get the most out of GarageBand, you'll need to do more than simply download the application. Try some of the ideas below, and let us know what works for you in the comment box at the bottom of this page. 

Flexibility Activity

The first step to getting to know this program is to explore the options available. Have your child explore the digital instruments, the recording feature, and audio editing tools. She needs to understand how each tool will affect what she records, so that she can hear the changes that she wants to make, and understand how to achieve that sound. Have her practice flexibility by recording a thirty-second clip of music. She can either play a real instrument, sing a song, or play a digital instrument. Then, challenge her to edit this clip three different ways, creating three different styles. This will be a fun activity for getting to know the tools, and for exploring various tones.

Focus Activity

When it comes time to edit, your child may start out strong and start to rush towards the end of the song. The only way to achieve a perfect result is for your child to take her time throughout each step of the process. The project does not need to be completed in one day, but that doesn't mean she should start ten projects and never finish any of them. Encourage your child to work a little bit each day so that she doesn't feel rushed or overwhelmed by the project. She will enjoy herself more, and take more effort and pride in creating an excellent final product.

Organization Activity

Have your child establish a system for saving the audio files that he creates. He can use iTunes, so long as he gets in the habit of editing the information for each file so that they save in the correct location. He can also use a folder, and give each file a specific and searchable title. He also needs to make saving part of his regular routine while working, just in case the program is close unexpectedly.

Planning Activity

Before beginning to compose and record a self-written and performed song, your child needs to put a lot of effort into the planning stages. She should think about the message of the lyrics, the tone of the song itself, and who the audience will be. If she has a clear vision in mind, she will have an easier time with the entire project. She should take time to write out her lyrics, experiment with and establish the music for each selected instrument, and determine how she is going to achieve the desired sound. She then needs to proceed through the project one step at a time, ensuring she doesn't try to rush to finish all in one sitting, but takes the time to edit cautiously and produce a song that she is proud of.

Self-Awareness Activity

When writing songs and recording music, your child will explore her personality, taste, and expression. Whether she writes acoustic love songs and plays them on a real guitar, or records electro-pop dance songs on a digital keyboard, she can express any emotion she desires. The lyrics your child writes can help her express the challenges she is facing, or the experiences she hopes to have someday. Encourage your child to write songs about events in her life that are happy, sad, challenging, exciting, etc. She can then proudly show them off to friends and family.

GarageBand is just one of many applications available for creating music. Check out the suggestions below, or let us know your other favorites in the comment box at the bottom of the page.

Adobe Audition:

Adobe Audition is a powerful recording and editing software that turns any computer into a recording studio. Find out more about Adobe Audition here.

Audacity:

Audacity is an alternative program for recording and editing multiple tracks, and creating professional quality audio tracks. Find out more here.