This article looks at the iPad's role as a musical instrument through the lens of a live performance ensemble that performs primarily on iPads. It also offers an overview of a pedagogical model used by this ensemble, which emphasizes musician autonomy in small groups, where music is learned primarily through aural means and concerts are interactive shows. Such a model could also be well suited to those using any type of instruments and would have significant potential to attract students who do not currently take part in our traditional school ensembles.