The Best Way to get the Most from Your Online Music Lesson
Weather your taking lessons from us at Blanch Music, another school, from any other live online lessons here are some tips to improve the quality of your lesson and get the best value!
Since 2020, online Music lessons have a had a huge boost! People are taking their lessons from the comfort of their own home. Online Music lessons are a great way to learn an instrument especially if you don’t want to travel or if the teacher that you really want to learn with lives far away from you! You might have access to some of the best tutors in the world because you’ve opted for online lessons.
Let’s get started!
Screen Size | Does Size Really Matter?
Choose a device with the largest possible screen, if you have small tablet Vs. a large screen computer try an opt for the bigger screen. It might be more inconvenient but the more of your instructor that you can see the better. Depending on your level or the instrument you may need to see the whole instrument. Think about the Piano, if you have a piece of music which is covering 4 or 5 octaves (49 - 61 Keys) it will be alot easier with a bigger screen.
Internet Connection | Get Wired In!
Again, it’s not always possible …. but if you have a hardwire option on your device and are near to your router or access point then plug that sucker in! Wired connections offer better stability and less lag (latency). If you only have 30 minutes of a lessons you want to make sure you get it all. Online Lessons can be a little like Marco Polo if you have lots of lag……Marco………………………………….Polo….. What was that note again?!
Lights, Camera Action!
Say’s it all in the title! Lights (On), Camera (On), Let’s Rock! Your instructor needs to see you too, so make sure you are in a well light space. A big old window is a light too, don’t forget!
If you are using Zoom, you can also have 2 Cameras on the one Computer. An extravagance I know but sometimes its nice to see the person and the instrument. Here’s the top rates article on how to set it up!. It’s not too tricky and if you have a second camera available to you then its worth giving it a shot.
One More Thing…..Don’t forget to ask!
Your lesson is going to go by pretty fast and absorbing new information can be tricky, especially from a screen. So, ask your instructor* is it possible to record the lessons or get a follow up email after your class with the main talking points. We use our Student Portal for lessons notes after each class, you can find a record for each lesson, you should also get an email with these details too.
*Honestly, some instructors won’t be happy with you recording the lesson. Why? Well it’s essentially their IP based around your specific needs, you could if you wanted pop these lessons online for someone else to use for Free and well, thats not cool! So don’t be upset if your instructor doesn’t allow it (We don’t, mainly for Copyright Reasons etc) but make sure you get a follow up email :D
Here’s Your Quick Summary
A Reliable Computer or Tablet: Ensure your device has sufficient processing power and a stable internet connection to support video conferencing.
High-Quality Webcam and Microphone: Clear video and audio are essential for effective communication. External webcams and microphones typically offer better quality than built-in ones.
Stable Internet Connection: A high-speed internet connection reduces lag and ensures smooth interaction with your instructor.
Proper Lighting: Good lighting allows your instructor to see your posture and technique clearly. Natural light is best, but a good quality lamp can also do the job.