X-Lenmus Phonascus (formerly X-LenMus)

Even though no computer application can replace a good teacher, when it comes to music it is sometimes difficult to find one. For those situations, X-Lenmus Phonascus provides a great substitute and promises to help you learn how a song looks like under the hood.

One of the key features of the application is the integrated “General Exercises” function. It brings up a decent amount of learning material that takes you through the basics of music theory.

You need to carefully listen, as most lessons require you to choose an answer after playing sounds that relate to the question. Most of these refer to identification and range from simple notes to chord or key signatures.

Each category keeps you occupied a good amount of time with different questions to make sure you get everything just right. Depending on the selected operation mode your progress is tracked and graded.

Several set of questions give you the possibility to switch between modes, and can range from learning to exam.

Another feature of the application is to view scores, with each note being highlighted when played. There is a decent library of examples you can load, even representations of Beethoven's masterpieces. The only disappointment in this feature is the lack of an autoscroll function of the page for easier tracking.

Even from the start, you are asked to configure MIDI settings. This is easily done in a wizard that guides you step by step through the process. Somewhere along the way, you are given the possibility to choose what sound is like during the playback of imported scores. From grand pianos and guitars to gunshot effects nearly every area is covered.

To sum it up, X-Lenmus Phonascus is definitely a proper substitute for a teacher. Multiple learning modes give you freedom of choice while the breathtaking amount of musical instruments provide a glimpse of what each sound like, in case you want to master one in particular.