The Best Rhythm Apps
Using technology in music lessons has so many benefits, and an iPad is one of my favourite tools. Not only is it perfect for theory worksheets and videos, it’s also a lot of fun to include musical games in lessons. If you’re looking for some great resources to help your students with rhythm, then take a look at the best rhythm apps for iPad and Android:
This post was updated in July 2026
Rhythm Swing
Help the monkey swing through the jungle as you follow along with the note values and tap in time to the beat. But don’t make too many mistakes, the crocodile is hungry! There are different levels for each note and rest value, plus two boss stages.
My favourite feature: I love the video game aspects of this app, and the monkey’s victory dance is definitely worth a mention!
Cost: one time payment
Get it here on iPad
Not available on Android
Rhythm Cat
Tap along to the beat as you follow the rhythm notation of each song. As the levels progress different note and rest values are introduced and you’ll need to start using both hands to tap the rhythm.
My favourite feature: there’s a great variety of accompanying songs, including some well-known pieces.
Cost: free or one time payment for the full version
Get it here on iPad
Not available on Android
Complete Rhythm Trainer
These progressive rhythm drills include imitation, reading, and dictation and include over 250 different exercises. The arcade style with lots of achievements to unlock is great motivation too!
My favourite feature: the option to create custom programmes for students is super useful for music teachers.
Cost: one time payment
Music Rhythm Trainer
Read and listen to the rhythm, tap it back, and advance to the next level… of which there are hundreds!
My favourite feature: the simplicity of this app makes it easy to use, but the exercises become more and more complex as you progress.
Cost: free daily time limit with optional upgrade to monthly subscription
Read More: The Best Note Reading Apps
The Most Amazing Sheep Game
And now for something completely different! Tap and swipe in time with the music to help the sheep jump obstacles. Although this app doesn’t use any musical notation it’s great for keeping the beat. And of course it’s a lot of fun!
My favourite feature: the quirky graphics and sound effects. I bet your students will love them too!
Cost: one time cost
Get it here on iPad
Not available on Android
Beat Sneak Bandit
With an engaging story, amazing soundtrack, and fun game play, my students love this app! Tap to the beat to solve the puzzles and save the world from the evil Duke Clockface!
My favourite feature: easy to play but hard to master, this app is great for many different ages and stages.
Cost: one time cost
Get it here on iPad
Not available on Android
Mussila Music
This award winning app has a range of musical games and challenges for students, and is perfect for beginners. Includes rhythm, note reading, and composing exercises.
My favourite feature: the fun graphics with different levels to work through are definitely appealing to students.
Cost: free trial then monthly or yearly subscription
Doctor Musik
Choose from three different rhythm games on the Doctor Musik website: Rhythm Galaxy, Rhythm Decryption, or The Sea of Rhythm. Each uses musical notation as well as ear training.
My favourite feature: Rhythm Galaxy and Rhythm Decryption are fun games that students will enjoy playing independently.
Cost: free
For extra games and activities to make music lessons (more!) fun check out the Teacher Resource Library.
Bridey Gibson is an experienced music teacher and founder of Pianosaurus Rex where she’s on a mission to make music lessons even more fun through innovative teaching ideas, play based learning, creative expression, and engaging resources.
Bridey offers unique piano lessons at her music studio in North New Brighton, and creates original music and practice resources loved by teachers and parents. Outside of the music studio you can find Bridey road tripping with her family, reading science fiction and fantasy, slowly working on creative projects, and learning to surf.
