Try These Distance Learning Tips for Your Online Music Lessons

We’re incredibly lucky to be living in a time when music lessons can still happen even when meeting in person isn’t always safe or possible. If you’ve got a reliable internet connection and a desire to learn music, you’ll be able to learn how to sing, play an instrument, or write music from a talented instructor from the comfort of your home. But for as convenient as online music lessons are, some students find that there’s a bit of a learning curve when adapting to them. These distance learning tips will help you to get the most benefit out of online music lessons.

Start by getting familiar with video conferencing technology and purchasing the right equipment

Online music lessons are set up to be accessible for people at every age and level of tech proficiency, but you’ll still need to get familiar with the video conferencing platform you’re using before your lessons. A strong internet connection is a must, and it’s recommended to not use the stock microphone and speakers on your device for music lessons. Why? Sound quality is crucial for online music instruction. You’ll need to hear everything your instructor is performing and saying clearly, and they’ll need to be able to hear you as well. A pair of desktop speakers and an instrument or vocal microphone will drastically improve your remote music learning experience. While you certainly can tune into lessons through your phone, using a tablet, laptop, or desktop computer is a better choice because phone screens are too small. If you decide to go with a tablet for lessons, using a reliable stand will make your life a lot easier. 

Make everything you do in your lessons visible for your teacher

If you’re learning an instrument for the first time, you might not realize it but even the smallest movements in your hands or posture can have profound impacts on the quality of your playing. To help your teacher give you their best guidance, make sure the space you’re playing in is properly lit, and that your movements are completely visible to your instructor. For instruments that require delicate hand movements, make sure the camera is zoomed in on your hands while playing. And to make sure your teacher is getting the right video images of you playing they need, don’t be afraid to check in every once in a while and ask. 

Take online lessons seriously and start with specific goals and a plan

If you approach online music lessons with less seriousness and dedication than you would with in-person lessons, you won’t get the results you’re looking for. By practicing regularly and thoroughly preparing for each lesson, you’ll give yourself the tools and experience you need to truly grow as a musician. It’s also important that you begin the online music instruction process with clear goals in mind. What exactly do you want to accomplish? Sharing your goals and vision for your music lessons with your teacher will help them to shape your time together in the most productive way possible. Your teacher will create a lesson plan specifically tailored to the remote teaching format off of what you tell them. So whether you’re interested in writing your own music or mastering Bach cello suites, let your instructor know and be as specific as possible.

MUSIC LESSONS AT MUSIC & ARTS

Since 1952, it’s been our mission to share the magic of music with local communities. That’s why we’re proud to teach students of all ages, backgrounds, and musical interests. We’re the nation’s leading provider of private music lessons, and we’re committed to helping you thrive through music. Learn more about music lessons at Music & Arts today!