Garageband is one example of a type of software known as an audio creation program. Even though Garageband only works for Macs (Apple computers), there are many very inexpensive softwares that are very similiar to Garageband. Most people have non-Apple computers with parts by Microsoft. This type of computer is called a PC.
Thirty years ago, you would have had to have a million dollars to make the same quality of recording that you can make on basic digital audio workstations like Garageband today. Because audio creation software is so affordable and fun, I encourage kids and parents to think about buying audio creation programs like Garageband for the home computer.
Most Audio Recording Software for PC has free demos online so you can try before you buy.
Sony ACID Music Studio is an music creation program for the PC. It is very similar to Garageband because you can use music loops to make new songs. You can also do cool stuff like recording keyboard sounds into the computer.
MAGIX Music Maker is the most similar program to Garageband that I have ever seen for the PC. The only problem with MAGIX is that I have not personally seen it in many stores, so you might have to buy it online.
Image Line FL Studio 7 Fruityloops Edition Virtual Studio. Fruityloops is the most popular music loop sequencing software for PC. It is very easy to use.
Music creation programs are great on their own, but you might want to do cool stuff like record yourself singing or playing guitar. To connect a guitar or a microphone to your computer, you will need a little box known as a USB audio interface. The guitar cord and/or the microphone cable connects to the USB audio interface. The USB cable connects to your computer, allowing it to "talk" to your guitar or microphone.Keyboards talk to your computer with a language called MIDI. A special box called a MIDI interface with MIDI cables allows this to happen. Some keyboards called controllers can hook up to your computer with a USB cable, so you don't even need a MIDI interface!