MyChord

MyChord: Real-Time Chord Recognition for String Instrument Players

MyChord is a mobile application designed for musicians who play string instruments. It provides real-time chord recognition for songs, helping users quickly identify and learn the correct chords without manual lookup. MyChord is valuable for guitarists, ukulele players, and others seeking an efficient practice aid that accelerates learning and improves accuracy. The app analyzes audio to deliver precise chord information, making it an essential tool for practice sessions.

Audio Input and File Processing

Users begin by feeding audio into MyChord. They can import files directly from their device's storage in formats like MP3, WAV, FLAC, or M4A. Alternatively, users can paste a YouTube link for the app to process. After selecting the audio source, MyChord analyzes the track. The system processes the audio data, detects musical patterns, and prepares the chord information for display. This function allows users to work with a wide range of audio sources conveniently.

Real-Time Chord Display and Progression

Once analysis is complete, MyChord presents chords in sequence during playback. The identified chords appear on screen as the song progresses. Users follow along, seeing each chord change in real time. This visual guidance helps players practice without pausing to check chord charts. The progression is timed to the music, so users can strum or pick along with the actual song, enhancing their timing and rhythm skills through direct application.

Multi-Instrument Chord Voicing Support

MyChord supports various string instruments, including guitar, ukulele, banjo, and mandolin. After chord detection, users select their instrument from the toolbar. The app then displays the chord voicings specific to that instrument, showing the exact finger positions on a virtual fretboard. This tailored approach ensures that players see relevant fingering diagrams, whether they’re strumming a ukulele or picking a banjo, making MyChord versatile for multi-instrumentalists.

Live Audio Recording for Instant Analysis

For songs without a digital file, MyChord offers a recording function. Users tap the record button and capture audio directly through their device’s microphone. This could be live music, a recording from another device, or even their own playing. MyChord processes this captured audio just like a pre-existing file, identifying and displaying chords from the recording. This feature is ideal for identifying chords during live performances or informal jam sessions.

Practice-Oriented Playback and Saving

Users can save songs after chord recognition for future practice. MyChord stores the analyzed track and its chord data in a personal library. When revisiting a saved song, the app loads it instantly, retaining all chord markers and timing. Players can loop sections, adjust playback speed, or focus on challenging chord transitions. This persistent storage creates a personalized repertoire of songs to practice, streamlining repeated learning sessions without re-analyzing the audio.

User Workflow and Chord Mastery

A typical session with MyChord involves selecting a song, analyzing its chords, and practicing along with the visual guide. Users play their instrument while watching the app display each upcoming chord, adjusting their fingering in real time. This interactive loop helps memorize sequences and improves muscle memory. Over time, musicians build a broader chord vocabulary and play more accurately by consistently using MyChord as a practice partner for new or complex songs.