Although the Resources and Reference page outlines a range of music technology software (see HERE), this blog post offers supplementary comments based on a recent post that appeared in Ensemble Magazine: The Magazine for Music Teachers' Association. The post specifically addresses additional benefits that DAW manufacturers offer secondary school students. 

Author and CEO of TiME (Technology in Music Education) Richard Llywellyn has over 35 years of experience in music education and lends his thoughts to what is currently available in the market. He highlights the following DAWs are currently the most frequently adopted in secondary schools globally: 

• Ableton Live 12 - Mac or PC (with 'Note' for iPhone Operating System)
• BandLab for Education - Online/Cloud-based
• Cubase 13 (Steinberg) - Mac or PC (with app options for iPhone Operating System, Android and Chrome)
• GarageBand (Apple) - only Mac (with free app for iPads and iPhones)
• Logic Pro 11 (Apple) - only Mac (with a paid app for iPads)
• SoundTrap for Education (Spotify) - Online/Cloud-based
• YuStudio (Charanga) - Online/Cloud-based

Llywellyn summarises that there are limitations with the online/cloud-based programs in that one does not have the ability to compose to video, but for the purposes of IB, this does not really pose any grave concerns. However, he further states that additional third-party plugins or Virtual Studio Technology (VST) can not be used either. A stable internet connection is a must with these programs as well (as opposed to those that you download). 

Remember too that DAWs on subscription can essentially change pricing at any time, which can of course pose problems when you have a limited budget. For other systems, you have the option of remaining on your current software (possibly with limitations) or upgrading if the additional costs are not an issue. 

For the Online/Cloud-based programs listed above (BandLab, SoundTrap and YuStudio), the cost is dependent on the number of licences that you purchase. These are relatively simple to use and a good starting point if students are not particularly familiar with Music Technology. There is also the added benefit of not having to undertake big reinstalls, as this is done automatically. 

SoundTrap

One of the great features of SoundTrap is the collaborative option, which could potentially be great for smaller class activities or even the Contemporary Music Maker. There is even a Podcast element that transcribes voice, which could be useful for certain projects. 

Cubase

There are essentially two types that are available for secondary school students (Cubase Elements and Cubase Pro). Students do have the option of downloading free copies on their own computers. One of the best features is harmonic suggestions to help with creating tasks. 

YuStudio 

This is a recently launched DAW (2022) with training available and subscribers are offered personalised support. There is continuous professional development for teachers, including resources, and the target is primarily for those students relatively inexperienced. One of its best features is the ability for students to import videos and create film scores as well as an in-built notation editor. 

There will be further updates in the Spring edition of the Ensemble magazine.