Virtual Lesson Tips & Tricks

While we’re all hoping to get back to in person lessons soon, these online lesson tips will help us all hit the ground running this September!

The biggest benefit of online lessons is being able to play and practice in the same space that your lesson is in. What goes into a perfect practice space?

• a chair or bench⁠

• a music stand⁠

• a device to view your lesson on⁠

• headphones to help you hear better⁠

• a microphone (this isn't necessary but can be helpful)⁠

• your instrument!⁠

Small adjustments in the height and angle of a chair or music stand can make a big difference in a student’s comfort and ease of playing. Think of this as you would think of adjusting the seat and steering in a new car - those little changes make the drive much smoother. A more ergonomic set up results in a fuller range of motion and in greater stamina on the instrument.

While most devices these days provide the exact same quality of Zoom call, small adaptations can make a big difference here as well. Your camera should show not only your instrument, but the way you use it as well. Hands (and maybe feet, depending on the instrument!) should be in full view, as well as enough of the student to determine the posture and placement is accurate. We send all of our students an in-depth PDF that includes placement tips for every instrument before starting their first lesson.

Your best resource for online lessons will always be your teacher. They have years of experience and will know the best way to set up for lessons, as well as the best practices for your instrument. With some creative thought and effort your practice space can be not only functional, but a place to fully enjoy while making music.