If you spent many childhood hours suffering through piano lessons or the embarrassment of piano recitals, you might wonder why anyone would want to ruin a perfectly good computer by installing piano tutorial software. But tickling virtual ivories can be relaxing, and, dare we say it, fun. You can learn at your own pace, and the process doesn't involve a single recital.

Unlike some music software programs, Piano and Keyboard Method doesn't stick with learning by ear. Instead, the program focuses on building a foundation of basic skills, including sight-reading, scales, chords, pitch, rhythm, tempo, intervals, and transposition. The package includes more than 300 lessons, organized by topic, and 70 videos. An animated keyboard demonstrates notes and proper fingering techniques. When you use the software with a MIDI keyboard, interactive feedback follows your progress and lets you know when you have made an error.

The program is easy to use, even if you have no prior experience with pianos or music. Lessons and information are presented in a clear, straightforward manner. There are no flashy graphics or arcade-style games to break up the lessons, so some individuals might find the whole thing a bit boring, if not too much like real piano lessons. But the step-by-step lessons let you learn at your own pace, with no pressure. Interactive flashcard quizzes are interspersed throughout the lessons to test your understanding of the concepts. If you are serious about learning at least the basics of playing a piano or keyboard, Piano and Keyboard Method will give you a good, solid grounding in the basics.

Everything you learn can be applied to a traditional piano or keyboard. If you don't currently have a piano or keyboard, eMedia offers two software/MIDI keyboard bundles for an additional cost. The keyboard has 49 full-size, touch-sensitive keys.

Pros: Information is clear and comprehensive and follows a logical progression
Cons: The presentation might seem a little dry at time for those (particularly kids) who are more used to arcade-style learning activities