Frequently asked questions
General
Is Play Piano Live free?
Yes. The online piano, transcription, practice mode and the installable app are free, with no account, no trial and no limits on songs or minutes.
Who makes it?
Groove Forte, the music channel behind youtube.com/@grooveforte.
Do I need an account?
No. There is nothing to sign up for. Your settings and songs live in your own browser.
Playing
Which keys on my computer play which notes?
The bottom row Z–/ starts at C3 and the top row Q–] starts at middle C. Number keys and the home row play the black keys. Arrows change octave and the space bar is the sustain pedal. See the full map on the piano page.
Can I use a MIDI keyboard?
Yes, over USB or Bluetooth, in Chrome, Edge, Firefox and Opera. Press MIDI and allow access. Safari doesn’t support Web MIDI yet. Full guide.
Why is there no sound?
Press a key first — browsers block audio until you interact. Then check your device volume, the silent switch on iPhone, and the volume slider.
Why is there a delay between pressing and hearing?
Bluetooth headphones add latency. Use wired headphones or speakers. Closing other heavy tabs helps on older devices.
Transcription
Is my audio uploaded?
No. The AI model runs in your browser on your device. Files and microphone recordings never leave it.
How accurate is it?
On a clean solo piano recording it gets the large majority of notes right. Full mixes work but drums, bass and vocals can add extra notes. Use the Notes setting to tidy the result and the Original slider to compare by ear.
Which files can I use?
MP3, WAV, M4A/AAC, OGG, FLAC and WebM audio up to 10 minutes, plus MIDI files for viewing and practice. Video links from YouTube or social media aren’t supported — download platforms’ terms don’t allow it.
Does it make sheet music?
It makes a piano roll and a MIDI file. Open the MIDI in free notation software such as MuseScore to see it as sheet music.
The app
How do I install it?
Chrome/Edge: the install icon in the address bar, or menu → Install app. iPhone/iPad: Share → Add to Home Screen. Android: menu → Add to Home screen.
Does it work offline?
Yes, after your first visit. Once the piano samples and the transcription model are cached, everything works without a connection.