A Computer-Based Approach to Teach Tonal Harmony to Young Students

In this paper authors present Harmonic Touch, a web platform for the study and practice of tonal harmony. The application is a step-by-step wizard that leads users through 3 experiences towards the discovery of important features of tonal harmony. Leveraging on chord perception, gestural interaction and gamification techniques authors propose an easy and funny approach to a topic otherwise considered too abstract and difficult for young students or amateurs. Harmonic Touch has been presented in a workshop to primary and middle school teachers, obtaining a good interest and appreciation as a didactic tool. Feedback received from participants suggests further developments such us expanding the music database and providing teachers with tools to customize Harmonic Touch for their teaching needs.