VC Artist Ray Chen Launches New Practice App, Tonic

Involving a community of musicians, the new practice platform also hosts feedback sessions from artists like Noah Bendix-Balgley and Stefan Jackiw

Focused on the performing arts, Tonic is a free online and community-based learning tool, created and led by VC Artist Ray Chen. Over the last two years, Ray has worked on providing a space for musicians internationally to learn and perform music together. 

The platform is suited for all musicians from beginners to professionals. Within its "Studios," you can get real-time feedback from fellow musicians during your practice session. Users can also set practice reminders to help keep track of their progress, create an avatar, join various interest groups, and chat with others between practice sessions. 

“I know from personal experience that practice can be a lonely and frustrating journey, especially when you feel like you're not making progress,” Ray told The Violin Channel. “That's why I wanted to create a space where musicians can share their work in progress, get feedback, and support each other, regardless of their age, skill, or background,” he added. “At Tonic, we celebrate every step of your journey, from the first awkward notes all the way to the polished performances. 

“One of the biggest benefits of using Tonic is the opportunity to connect with other musicians from around the world,” Ray continued. “With our live practice rooms, users can learn from each other and form lasting friendships that extend beyond the platform. Plus, with cute customizable avatars, and exciting events like Challenges, practice becomes a fun and rewarding experience that users can look forward to every day.”

Additionally, Tonic hosts scheduled live feedback sessions with members of its faculty including Ray himself, violinists Stefan Jackiw, Noah Bendix-Balgley, Robert Lipsett, Roberto González-Monjas, and the Dover Quartet’s Bryan Lee, Joel Link, and cellist Camden Shaw. 

More mentors include violist Amihai Grosz, bassist Derek Zadinsky, cellists Stephan Koncz and VC Artist Pablo Ferrández, pianists Robert McDonald and Joyce Yang, flutist Jasmine Choi, clarinetist Andreas Ottensamer, French horn player Stefan Dohr, bassoonist William Short, and classical guitarist MILOŠ.

To download the app, click here, or visit the app store on a preferred device. 

Tonic App