Learning the piano is an intimidating task. That is unless you have a program to help guide you through the beginner phase. Playground Sessions and Simply Piano of two of the most well-known programs, but there are several noticeable differences between them. How are you supposed to know which to choose?
Playground Sessions and Simply Piano are both great piano learning methods. Playground Sessions requires PC/MAC/iPad access, however, to get the best results you will need to connect to a digital keyboard. Simply Piano is app-based, doesn’t require a physical keyboard connection, and works well with acoustic and digital pianos.
Throughout this article, you’ll also learn the following:
- How these two programs differ from one another
- Similarities between Playground Sessions and Simply Piano
- Which one you should choose
The Differences Between Playground Sessions and Simply Piano
There’s no question that either of these programs has what it takes to teach you to play the piano in no time. However, learning on Playground Sessions is entirely different than learning on Simply Piano.
Unlike other programs, the differences between these two choices are significant enough to make it more challenging to pick one over the other. If you go with the wrong one, you could end up wasting your time and money. To prevent that from happening, let’s check out the six main differences below.
- Playground Sessions is primarily designed to be used on a computer. You can download it for Mac (including iPad) or Windows, both of which have updated versions of the application. On the other hand, Simply Piano runs on iOS and Android on a smartphone or tablet. You’ll have to rely on these devices to get any use out of the program.
- Simply Piano has a much more relaxed, cartoon-style feeling about it. You’ll be guided through the step-by-step tutorials with an animated voice, whereas Playground Sessions uses a one-on-one setting with the instructor. This distinction is strong enough to sway some people in one direction or the other.
- Playground Sessions has a much bigger song selection than Simply Piano. Although SP is slowly getting more songs over the months, they’re not as established as Playground Sessions and currently lag behind with song selection. If you’re starting out and new to learning the piano, it shouldn’t be an issue. However, experts might be frustrated by this.
- The videos on Playground Sessions are significantly longer and more in-depth. Again, beginners might want to choose Playground Sessions to learn more, but experienced pianists could be frustrated with the long tutorials. Note: You can skip through any of the videos on both programs if you decide to.
- Simply Piano follows its name by being very relaxed, simple, and easy to use. It’s not too crazy or covered with different buttons and options to cycle through. If you want to get straight to the point, then it’s a good choice. However, the detailed nature of Playground sessions is better for long-term learning.
- To get the best from Playground Sessions, you will need a physical connection between the keyboard and the source. You will not get real-time feedback or be able to track your progress with an acoustic piano. Alternatively, Simply Piano will use your app device’s microphone for note recognition on acoustic pianos to give you instant feedback. However, if you are using a digital keyboard, it is strongly recommended that you connect the two with a MIDI connection.
Similarities of the Two Programs
Although they’re somewhat contrasted in the previous section, it should be noted that there are a handful of similarities between Playground Sessions and Simply Piano. Before you make your final decision, it’s probably a good idea to see how they both have the same goal in mind: To teach people of all experience levels how to play piano better.
Here are five reasons that Playground Sessions and Simply Piano are similar to each other:
- They both have clear, concise lessons that you can advance from one to the next. Rather than being lost in a sea of choices, you can take the beginner’s route and follow the guides from start to finish. The assistance of these two programs overshadows the vast majority of other piano software.
- Playground Sessions and Simply Piano each have a built-in piano along the bottom that allows you to play while listening. They also offer the ability to plug or record your piano whenever you want to, giving you the best of both worlds. There’s no need for a MIDI keyboard or any other special tools.
- Both programs have a trial free version with limited access, but they run on monthly subscription fees. If you want to have access to dozens of new and old songs and an ever-expanding list of updated tutorials, you’ll have to spend a few bucks a month maintaining your membership.
- You can use multiple accounts on both services. If you want one for yourself and another for a family member, then you’ll be able to keep track of your progress separately. Playground Sessions and Simply Piano also both have a settings menu to increase or decrease your learning experience, however, there will be an increase in price for this option.
- Customer support for both programs is as good as it gets. They respond quickly and acknowledge the fact that customers drive their business forward. Rather than waiting on hold for countless hours, you’ll receive a prompt reply that details the issue with you until it’s solved.
As you can see, both Playground Sessions and Simply Piano have pros and cons that are worth exploring. They each have fantastic programs to push through the frustrating beginner phases of learning the piano, while also teaching you dozens of songs, tricks, and methods along the way. To figure out which one you should choose, proceed to the next section.
Which One Is Right for You?
These applications are designed for people of all experience levels, but there’s no denying the simplicity behind Simply Piano (as the name would indicate). It’s not as in-depth, nor is it sought after by experienced pianists other than for a bit of fun learning a couple of new songs.
That being said, Simply Piano is app-based and is an excellent tool for beginners who don’t have computers or those who prefer to stay mobile. You can play on the on-screen keyboard or record your piano (both acoustic and digital) through your device’s microphone wherever you want to.
On the other hand, Playground Sessions tethers you to a computer or laptop and is currently only supported by PC (Windows) & MAC (inc iPad). To get the best from it, you will need a digital keyboard with USB or MIDI connective capabilities, so you can take advantage of the interactivity that Playground Sessions offers.
In short, beginners who want simple instructions without too many extra features should choose Simply Piano. Those who are beyond the starting stages or looking to progress to an expert experience level eventually should try out Playground Sessions.
The mobility and modernized interface of Simply Piano can’t be denied. Having access to lessons at the store, while you’re on a long road trip, or waiting for your haircut appointment is very useful. Muscle memory, audio learning, and basic tutorials are the three primary factors that you’ll benefit from with this app.
Playground Sessions is ideal for anyone who takes their instrumental learning a bit more seriously. If you don’t like the cartoon-style editing and education on Simply Piano, then the realistic approach of Playground Sessions will be your favorite choice.
Pricing
| Membership Type | Playground Sessions | Simply Piano |
| Monthly | $17.99 | N/A |
| 3 Monthly | N/A | $59.99 |
| 6 Monthly | N/A | $89.99 |
| Annual | $119.88 | $119.99 |
| Lifetime | $289.99 | N/A |
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing either Playground Sessions or Simply Piano, you’ll love either choice if you’re open to multiple styles of learning. One is more serious than the other, while it’s not as portable.
You can find Simply Piano on both Google Play or the App store which you can access from the parent company Joy Tunes here
Alternatively, you can find Playground Sessions here. As we mentioned earlier, there is an option for a 7-day free trial which isn’t that easy to find on the site! But you can access it here. Otherwise, you will need your credit card for immediate payment, however, you will be protected with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Here’s a quick recap of the post:
- Both programs offer quick and easy learning from start to finish.
- Playground Sessions requires a PC or MAC and has more to offer overall.
- Simply Piano is app-based, and is better if you want to learn on the go or have an acoustic piano.
- Neither program requires you to have a piano or MIDI/USB connected keyboard.
- They offer a combined total of over 1,500 songs to choose from.
