Classifi is a classical music streaming app offering curated selections, new releases, and a vast library to satiate even the most passionate of listeners. The goal of the project was to move beyond the limitations of major streaming platforms by designing a solution centered around the genre’s audience.
To understand user needs, I conducted four interviews with classical music listeners along with a competitor analysis to identify gaps in existing streaming platforms.
Users reported struggling to track down specific classical pieces when they can’t recall their name due to the absence of lyrics and limited ways to narrow down search results.
Users reported that streaming apps provide limited context for classical pieces, with little info on the composer, performer, or story of the piece.
Users who play instruments or conduct reported that the lack of scores and sheet music on streaming apps makes it harder for them to engage with the music.
Users reported that classical music titles are often cut off or poorly formatted on streaming apps, leading to confusion when trying to find a specific piece or version.
Spotify offers a large classical library, but as a mainstream music app, its design struggles to present long classical titles with proper hiearchy.
As a classical music streaming app, IDAGIO has an oragnized library and a unique mood-based feature, but provides no context on pieces.
Apps presenting fine art were also explored for inspiration. DailyArt stands out for presenting dense content in a clean, modern layout.
With user needs in mind, I brainstormed unique features for the app. Additionally, I created wireflow sketches and wireframes to determine where these features would live and how they would be accessed.
User testing with regular listeners of classical music indicated a need for better hierarchy when navigating through the app. The final design eliminated unnecessary steps from the user’s initial search to the music player.
After user testing, I refined the app's design, aiming for a modern look that felt appropriate for a classical music brand, but avoided the clichéd brown aesthetic.
Classifi distinguishes itself from other streaming platforms by offering specific search and filter tools, integrated sheet music, and in-depth historical context on both composers and pieces
