In this guide
What is GarageBand?
GarageBand is an app that lets users record and edit music and other audio projects such as podcasts. It is a lighter version of the audio workshop software Logic Pro, intended for amateur and beginner producers. GarageBand has been used by popular artists like Steve Lacy and Grimes to create music.
The software is created by Apple and is therefore available on Apple’s iOS and macOS systems. The app is completely free, although users can download third-party plugins for GarageBand from the Appstore, and these can cost money.
Due to the free price and the user-friendly interface, GarageBand is a great tool for children and beginners looking to learn how to produce their own music.
How it works
When starting a new project on GarageBand, users are given the choice of starting a blank project from scratch or using a project template that already has some instrument tracks included. The option to use templates is helpful for beginners, as it streamlines the process of creating music and gives a foundation for the user to build on.
Users can add music to the track by playing an instrument connected to the device, playing an instrument within the app or by adding pre-recorded instrumentals from GarageBand’s sound library. They can then edit the track by adding effects and mixing volume levels. Once the track is finished, the project can be exported as an audio file, or directly uploaded to YouTube, Soundcloud or iTunes.
This streamlined production process, all being done inside the GarageBand app, makes it ideal for beginners looking to learn production. The app also includes lessons to teach users how to produce music and also how to play piano and guitar.
Famous musicians such as John Legend, OneRepublic, and Rush teach these music lessons. They teach users how to play their hit songs, giving a beginner lesson on how to play a simple version of the song, as well as a more complex lesson for experienced players. This is another way children can learn skills using GarageBand, and having celebrity teachers can make it more engaging for them, although most of the artists giving lessons would be better known by older audiences.me even if they are not in the same place.
GarageBand parental controls
GarageBand does not have any in-built parental controls. However, due to it being an Apple app that is only available on macOS and iOS, you can use the Apple device’s in-built screen time controls to prevent a child from spending excessive amounts of time on the app.
By using Apple’s device settings, you can also block your child from making purchases without your permission, which will prevent them from buying expensive third-party plugins for GarageBand.
You can find out how to set these controls with our step-by step iPhone and iPad guide and our macOS guide.
Benefits of Disney Plus
- Free to use
- Great for beginners
- User-friendly interface
- Lessons help teach instruments as well as production
- High quality production
What to watch out for
GarageBand is a great app for children interested in expressing themselves creatively through music and can help them build their musical and production skills. The app is overall very safe, with very little risk of harm, although there are still some things you should keep an eye on if your child chooses to use the software.
Children can upload their projects directly to YouTube and Soundcloud, and if they do this there is a risk that they receive negative feedback or mean comments from other users. If your child receives hateful comments, speak to them about it and encourage them to report the user if needed.
Setting parental controls so that your child can’t buy any costly third-party plugins for GarageBand without parental permission is also a good idea. However, if you choose not to do this, discussing spending with your child could be a good idea to ensure they don’t overspend. Find out more in our online money management guide.