Hi, I’m Michael — the musician, music teacher, and developer behind Play Music from Within . Since I was a kid, I have loved music. However, when I was young (and naive and full of drive), I was never really interested in playing music that already existed. I wanted to create my own music. Or I just wanted to play. However, my initial music education was traditional and focused almost exclusively on teaching me how to read sheet music. Reading music is certainly an important tool, but the strong focus on replicating sheet music as it is prevalent in western musical education can stamp out the urge (and eventually also the ability) of children (and adults) to express themselves freely through music. Frustrated with music eduction, I learned music mostly on my own through a lot of trial and error, which is a very slow (but fun) process.

Now I am a music teacher myself. What do I teach besides reading music? I teach music theory, but in a very applied and immediate way. I teach my students how they can create music, improvise, and make what they feel manifest itself in music.

So, whether you’re a budding composer, a parent nurturing a young musician, or someone who just loves creating, my mission is to help you tap into your inner creative voice and bring it to life. Having a good ear for music - understanding how the music in your head can be brought to life is one of the most important skills you can develop as a musician, especially as a composer or improvisor.

How can you connect what you hear to the mechanics or your instruments? Like with most music related skills, you need regular practice. I always teach ear training in my music classes, but realized that while my students enjoyed it, they couldn’t practice it at home as it requires a second person or an ear training tool Most ear trainers out there are a bit dull and often have an overcomplicated user interface while not giving you feedback on your overall progress. I created Audiation Studio to be an easy to use and fun, but at the same time very effective tool to train your ear. It provides you immediate feedback that tells you where your abilities are and what you need to practise.

Try the free trainer. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions or feedback or suggestions. I’m here to support you on your musical journey of self-discovery and creativity every step of the way.