Every artist has a few tools that are simply essential to their craft. For musicians, that often means their instrument, recording gear, and a few other bits and bobs. However, in the digital age, we also have the convenience of smartphones that can hold dozens of apps. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a musician who doesn’t have a few apps that are essential to their craft. I’ve come across one of those creatures, at least.

Since I started learning guitar and music in general, I have experimented with a lot of music related apps. Sometimes I just play with them when I am bored. Other times they have literally saved my self-confidence from crumbling to dust.

Besides your instrument, which every musician worth their salt should have with them, it’s not easy to have everything with you at all times, no matter how much of an analogue purist you are. But I’ve never really cared about anything other than being a better musician, writing songs and finding inspiration with the grand piano. And the apps I have on my phone reflect that.

While I understand that every musician ultimately has their own list of essential apps, I’ve always tried to keep it simple. Most of my apps are free, easy to get, and simple enough for even a toddler to use. The idea is simple: why waste your time on learning tools when you can practice your instrument?