Fretello
Fretello is an AI-based music education app that teaches guitar through interactive learning content.
The application is available on iOS, macOS, and Android platforms as a free download with an optional subscription that unlocks all of the app’s features.[1]. Those features include listening technology that algorithmically determines in real-time[2] whether the user has played notes and chords correctly[3] and a Song Trainer that teaches guitarists how to play songs in small sections.
Course Content
The app takes a guided approach to its content. Users are led through playing exercises, practice opportunities, and songs or song parts (e.g. riffs, melodies, chord progressions)[4]. Segmented learning content is presented didactically on smartphones, iPads and MacBooks.
Learning concept
Fretello’s learning concept is based on mobile learning principles such as microlearning. Learning content is presented in small chunks[5] (short videos[6], exercises, explanations), so users may progress at their own pace[7]. Users can see where they are in their learning journey along with related content, such as practical examples and the immediate application of learned skills[8]. Learning content presented as videos drawn from Principles of the Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning[9].
Users can navigate through the learning content themselves and interact with the app when playing exercises on their guitar[10].
The app’s temporal and locational independence allows users to receive feedback[11] and get access to learning material without the restrictions of traditional lessons[12]. Due to AI-powered technology that listens to the user via their smartphone’s microphone, the app analyzes what the users play and provides feedback on the rhythm, tempo, and pitch. It then uses algorithms to track their progress and tailor an ongoing set of practice routines to help guitarists to improve their technique, regardless of their level[13].
History
In 2016, Fretello was founded in Austria by CEO Florian Lettner and CTO Wolfgang Damm[14]. The app is available globally and has been localized to Russian, Spanish, Italian, German, Japanese and French.
In 2019, Fretello was selected as one of the first partners to integrate the "Sign in with Apple" function[15][16]. The login feature aims to become an alternative to the login options of Facebook and Google, putting data protection in the foreground[17][18].
In 2019, Fretello presented a new Machine Learning video analysis technology at Apple's WWDC that recognizes the user’s hand and finger placement while they play on camera as it teaches them the dexterity to play chords[19].
In May of 2020, the Fretello app was featured in the App Store—Apple's application marketplace for its line of iOS devices—as the App of the Day[20]
During the coronavirus pandemic of 2020, the company embraced a fully remote work philosophy to support employees who needed to work from home due to lockdown restrictions in their respective areas[21]. Since Fretello employs individuals based all over the world, the company has always offered the option to work remotely for its many employees who do not reside in Linz, Austria where Fretello is headquartered. Diverse workspaces and flexible working environments are typical for the remote-friendly team.
Collaborations
Fretello has partnerships with the two largest music publishers worldwide: Sony / ATV, EMI[22][23] and Kobalt/AWAL[24]. It also has partnerships with individual artists to offer a wide song catalog to users.
References
- ↑ Steinschaden, Jakob. "Fretello: Die Linzer App, die dir zeigt, wie man Gitarre spielt (und auch gleich filmt)". Trending Topics. Retrieved 4 August 2020.
- ↑ Steinschaden, Jakob. "Musik-Startup Fretello: "Wir sind so lange lästig, bis uns jemand zuhört"". Trending Topics. Retrieved 4 August 2020.
- ↑ "Bis die Finger schmerzen". WKO. Retrieved 4 September 2020.
- ↑ Thalhammer, Katharina. "Musiklehrer immer dabei". Gewinn. Retrieved 4 June 2020.
- ↑ Rolfe, Tom. "REVIEW: FRETELLO LEAD – SMART PRACTICE FOR GUITAR". Tapsmart. Retrieved 10 December 2016.
- ↑ Grothaus, Michael. "The 5 Best Apps For Learning Guitar in 2020 (Android & iPhone)". Know Your Mobile.
- ↑ Thalhammer, Katharina. "Musiklehrer immer dabei". Gewinn. Retrieved 4 June 2020.
- ↑ Niegemann, Helmut M.; Domagk, Steffi; Hessel, Silvia (2008). Kompendium multimediales Lernen. Berlin-Heidelberg: Springer-Verlag. ISBN 978-3-540-37226-4. Search this book on
- ↑ Mayer, Richard (2009). Multimedia learning (Second edition ed.). New York: Cambridge University Press. ISBN 9780511811678.CS1 maint: Extra text (link) Search this book on
- ↑ Steinschaden, Jakob. "Fretello: Jetzt holt sich das Linzer Musik-Startup 500.000 Euro bei Investoren". Trending Topics. Retrieved 4 September 2020.
- ↑ Steinschaden, Jakob. "Fretello: Jetzt holt sich das Linzer Musik-Startup 500.000 Euro bei Investoren". Trending Topics. Retrieved 4 September 2020.
- ↑ Steinschaden, Jakob. "Fretello: Jetzt holt sich das Linzer Musik-Startup 500.000 Euro bei Investoren". Trending Topics. Retrieved 4 September 2020.
- ↑ Rolfe, Tom. "REVIEW: FRETELLO LEAD – SMART PRACTICE FOR GUITAR". Tapsmart. Retrieved 10 December 2016.
- ↑ Dirmaier, Valentina. "Revolution auf dem Musikmarkt: Mit fretello in einem Jahr zum Gitarristen". OÖ Nachrichten.
- ↑ Steinschaden, Jakob. "Sign in with Apple: Österreichisches Musik-Startup Fretello unter ersten Partnern". Trending Topics. Retrieved 3 June 2019.
- ↑ Mey, Stefan. "Wie das österreichische Startup Fretello den Apple-Login integriert". der brutkasten.
- ↑ Graham, Jefferson. "Signing on with Apple could be safer than Facebook or Google". USA TODAY. Retrieved 15 December 2019.
- ↑ Wagenseil, Paul; Casey, Henry T. "Sign in with Apple: How it works and how to use it". Tom's guide. Retrieved 30 January 2020.
- ↑ Daniel, Eran Dilger. "Review: macOS Catalina 10.15 is what Apple promised the Mac could be, and is a crucial upgrade". Apple insider. Retrieved 4 June 2020.
- ↑ "App of the day". Apple. Retrieved 4 June 2020.
- ↑ "Diverse Workspace Photo Series: Tanja Weidinger, Fretello". Remoter. Retrieved 4 June 2020.
- ↑ Jakob, Steinschaden. "Fretello schließt Deals mit den großen Musik-Publishern Sony/ATV und EMI". Trending Topics. Retrieved 4 June 2020.
- ↑ Kneidinger, Barbara. "Apple-Ritterschlag für Gitarrenlern-App aus Linz". Kronen Zeitung. Retrieved 6 June 2019.
- ↑ "Linzer Musik-Startup Fretello kooperiert mit britischem Plattenlabel". der brutkasten.
