About
Scale Practice Randomizer is a lightweight, musician-focused iOS utility built by Alexander Burdiss to help instrumentalists break out of repetitive scale practice habits. The app offers three core modes: a random scale picker from a preset library, a random picker from a user-defined list, and a comprehensive scale resource section featuring diagrams and explanations. Supported scale types include Major, Natural Minor, Harmonic Minor, Melodic Minor, all Major Modes, Melodic Minor Modes, Blues Scale, Pentatonic Scales, Octatonic Scales, and Whole Tone Scales — covering both scales and arpeggios. Users can configure the app to repeat or skip already-practiced scales, keep the screen on during sessions, and toggle a simplified random display mode. The app is available on iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch (with watch complications), and supports multiple languages including English, Japanese, Korean, French, and Chinese. Scale selections persist between app loads so your custom practice list is always ready. The developer collects no user data, making it a privacy-friendly tool. Ideal for music students, conservatory players, and hobbyist musicians who want a no-frills, effective way to randomize their daily scale work.
Key Features
- Random Scale Selection: Instantly pick a random scale from a built-in library covering Major, Minor, Modes, Blues, Pentatonic, Octatonic, and Whole Tone scales.
- Custom Practice Lists: Build your own list of scales and arpeggios and let the app randomize from your personal selection.
- Scale Resource Library: Access diagrams and descriptions for each scale type to support learning and reference during practice.
- Apple Watch Support: Includes a native Apple Watch app with complications so you can view your next scale without touching your phone.
- Session-Friendly Controls: Keep your screen on during practice, toggle repeat/no-repeat mode, and use the simplified display for distraction-free sessions.
Use Cases
- Music students randomizing daily scale warm-ups to build comprehensive technique across all keys and modes.
- Jazz musicians ensuring they cover all scale types and modes evenly during improvisation practice.
- Music teachers assigning randomized scale orders to students for varied and unpredictable practice sessions.
- Classical instrumentalists using the resource library to learn and reference unfamiliar scale types and fingerings.
- Self-taught musicians building structured practice habits with a simple, no-cost tool on their iPhone or iPad.
Pros
- Completely Free: No subscriptions, no in-app purchases — the full feature set is available at no cost.
- Privacy-Friendly: The developer collects zero user data, making it safe and transparent to use.
- Multi-Platform: Works seamlessly across iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch for practice anywhere.
- Wide Scale Coverage: Covers an extensive range of scale types and arpeggios suitable for classical, jazz, and contemporary players.
Cons
- No Audio Feedback: The app does not listen to your playing or provide any performance evaluation — it is strictly a randomizer tool.
- Apple Ecosystem Only: Only available on iOS, macOS, and Apple Watch; no Android or web version exists.
- Limited Interactivity: Functionality is intentionally minimal — users who want guided lessons or backing tracks will need additional apps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Scale Practice Randomizer listen to me play?
No. The app is purely a randomizer and reference tool. It does not use your microphone or provide any feedback on your playing.
Is the app free to use?
Yes, Scale Practice Randomizer is completely free with no in-app purchases or subscriptions.
What scale types are included?
The app includes Major, Natural Minor, Harmonic Minor, Melodic Minor, Major Modes, Melodic Minor Modes, Blues Scale, Pentatonic Scales, Octatonic Scales, and Whole Tone Scales, as well as arpeggios.
Can I create my own list of scales to practice?
Yes. You can input a custom list of scales and the app will randomly select from your personalized list during practice sessions.
Does the app work on Apple Watch?
Yes. There is a native Apple Watch app with watch face complications, so you can check your next scale right from your wrist.
