Bebot
(USD 1.99, iOS 3.0+, ages 4+)
Who doesn’t know Bebot by now? This synth app allows users to produce a wide variety of unique and versatile sound effects through the interface of a cute, tuxedo’ed, and retro-looking cartoon robot.
Bloom HD
(USD 3.99, iOS 4.3+, ages 4+)
Bloom HD is a revolutionary app that gives you the ability to play music, compose a song, and make a work of art, all at the same time. And you don’t have to be a musician to use it; everyone can make something amazing simply by touching the screen. If that sounds like too much work for you, you can also just let the app run idle, randomly creating beautiful works of art for your enjoyment.
Falling Stars
(Free, iOS 4.2+, ages 4+)
Falling Stars is both a hybrid music/drawing app that allows you to trace lines onto the screen, after which notes fall from the sky and roll along the contours of your drawing. It’s a simple concept, but incredibly addictive and fascinating.
LaDiDa
(USD 2.99, iOS 4.0+, ages 4+)
Let’s face it: Not everybody can sing. But luckily, with LaDiDa, talent doesn’t matter! LaDiDa provides auto-tune and professional vocal effects to make you the best singer you can be. And all with minimal effort: LaDiDa automatically changes the key and chords depending on your voice, so all you have to do is belt out your favorite song.
Ocarina 2
(Free, iOS 5.0+, ages 4+)
Ocarina 2 gives you the power of pure music, right at your fingertips. Blow into your phone and play the notes to discover some of your favorite songs in an all new way, from Bieber to Bach (though hopefully Bach). Adjustable difficulty settings make this a game that anybody can play.
Sing Something
(Free, iOS 5.0+, ages 12+)
The concept of Sing Something is simple: Just sing a song from the category and have your friend guess what it is. If they guess right, you both get coins. Then it’s their turn. Hundreds of popular songs are available, going back as far as the 80s. Rock out!
Virtuoso Piano 3
(Free, iOS 4.0+, ages 4+)
Unfortunately, pianos aren’t portable. Virtuoso Piano 3 solves this problem by giving you the ability to practice on the fly. With incredible sound quality, this app would make Mozart proud. Choose from two pianos: a broken pub piano and a classic grand.
This post coincides with the release of beijingkids’ August issue, which is all about music. For features on music and development classes, private music lessons, buying instruments, and more, download your free PDF copy here.