Online Lessons
We are pleased to offer online lessons for our students in the United States and all over the world. Our teachers are experienced in providing effective and excellent online music instruction. Contact us today to schedule your first lesson!
How do online lessons work?
Online learning has quickly become a standard practice in all fields of education. Our students have continued to flourish in their studies when transitioning to virtual lessons, thanks to the dedication of our teachers in creating effective methods for students to learn online.
An online lesson takes place much like a traditional, in-person lesson. You and your teacher have a regular weekly lesson schedule. At the time of your lesson, you join the meeting using your teacher's Zoom ID. Both the student and teacher will be able to see each other's hands and faces, as well as have the ability to share a screen to refer to printed music and other media together. You'll be able to hear your teacher demonstrate, as well as have the ability to record your lessons for future reference. Written assignments and notes from your teacher can be sent via text or email following your lesson as well.
Online lessons make scheduling easy for students, since you don't have to consider commute times. If you are on a vacation and wish to keep your schedule during that time, online lessons make it easy to have a lesson from anywhere.
What kind of equipment will I need for online lessons?
Most teachers will encourage you to have an external microphone because of the limited sound quality of built-in microphones in computers, phones and tablets. However, even simple external mics or webcam/mic combinations will usually do, so it is not a significant expense (possibly less than the gas money of traveling to a teacher over the course of several months!). You don't need to have sophisticated video equipment, as most computers will do. It's okay to feel uncertain about the setup, and your teacher will help you get situated.
Tips and Reminders
Get the most out of your lesson by setting up 10 minutes ahead of every lesson to confirm that cameras are set up correctly and your microphone is working.
If you are using just one camera, be sure it shows both the full keyboard and your upper body and face (for piano lessons).
Brightly lit rooms make it easy for your teacher to see. If you can, avoid sitting between the camera and a window.
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System Requirements
Internet Speed
A reliable, high speed internet connection is a must.
Video Conferencing Software
Your teacher will discuss with you video conferencing platforms that will work best for the both of you, for example, Zoom, Skype, FaceTime etc.
Equipment
Device
A tablet or laptop that can reliably support video conferencing software and applications.
Microphone
A good quality microphone vastly improves the lesson experience. Our students have had success using the Zoom H2N microphone. Other less expensive, quality alternatives can be found online as well.
Metronome
A metronome that is separate from your conferencing device is a must. A simple model such as this Korg option, will be sufficient.
Nice to Haves
Additional Videoconferencing Account
Consider getting an extra account to enable you to add a second view for easier communication.
HD Webcam
Webcams can be easily re-positioned compared to those that are attached to your laptop or tablet: Spedal Wide Angle Webcam
Tripod
A Tripod will help you achieve an optimal viewing angle, particularly for the keyboard view.