So, you have decided to tackle piano lessons and are concerned about what to expect when it comes to the first online lesson. The digital world has graced us with many options and possibilities for use in our daily lives, like online piano lessons. We see more and more benefits of the video conferencing service “Zoom” in our education, work, and social lives. There are plenty of advantages to taking a lesson online, but it can be confusing for those who do not have much experience using online video services.
A piano lesson requires lots of focus, and worrying about what to expect during your online classes can hinder your concentration. We’ll go over all the pointers to prepare you and fill you in on everything you need to know before going into your Zoom lessons:
Internet
First and foremost, you should ensure that you have stable and reliable internet access before you hop on your first Zoom lesson. Without the internet, you won’t have access to an online piano lesson.
Connection
You’ll want to check your connection to the internet. There are accessible services like Speed Test that allow you to see your download and upload speed. Some people prefer plugging their laptop or computer into their modem or purchasing Wi-Fi boosters that will strengthen their connection, making for a better Zoom session.
In case you run into any difficulties connecting your laptop or desktop to the Wi-Fi, there are other alternatives you can take. Many devices can run Zoom, so if you own a mobile phone or device, you will be able to connect that way.
Equipment
Devices
To be able to proceed with online piano lessons, you will need either a desktop computer or a laptop, such as an Apple or Windows, or a mobile device that is an iOS or Android. These devices will be able to run Zoom, so your teacher will be able to communicate with you.
Video & audio
While cameras are not always required to use Zoom, you will most likely need to have one to appear on the screen. The piano teacher will need to see you and how you play to be able to give you tips and informative instructions. An HD webcam will suffice for these lessons and are quite accessible and affordable to find in stores that sell electronics. If you own a laptop or a mobile device, then you’ll already have a camera that is built-in.
The audio aspect of your online lesson is perhaps the most essential part. Along with your teacher being able to see you, they will need to hear you and vice-versa. Most laptops and mobile devices will have a built-in speaker and microphone. Desktop users need to have speakers and a microphone hooked up to fulfill the audio aspect of their lesson.
Headphones
Headphones are a useful alternative in case you don’t have speakers. You can plug them into the audio jack and hear your piano teacher a bit more clearly. Headphones and earbuds are widely popular items and can be found at many electronics stores. Keeping a pair handy is a good idea when going into a lesson.
Setting Up
Before setting up for your online lesson, you have a couple of options when it comes to Zoom. You can download the app onto your computer or mobile device, which may make things a lot easier and more convenient for you. You can also use Zoom through your online browser, which will save you some space on your hard drive if need be.
Lesson space
Once you have the proper equipment needed for your online lesson, then you can figure out your space and set it up. Make sure you and your piano are in view, as your teacher will want to see you. Depending on what time of day your lesson will be, be mindful of the lighting situation in the room. You will not want to be learning the piano in the dark, so make sure you and your piano keys are visible so your teacher can see you on screen.
Make sure your lesson takes place in a quiet place where you will not be disturbed or pick up any background noise. Having an outlet nearby is recommended to ensure your device is charged.
Using Zoom
The process of using Zoom for your online lessons will not be hard to figure out. However, anyone who hasn’t used the service might be wondering how to go about it. We’ll break down the step-by-step process so you will not run into any issues on your way toward mastering those lessons:
Step-by-step process
As you set up Zoom on your device of choice, you’ll be met with some important prompts and features:
- A link will most likely be provided for you by your piano teacher. Clicking the link will bring you to the lesson at your designated time.
- If you have not already, you will be asked to enter your name. This way, the teacher will know who you are.
- Zoom will ask if it can access the camera, to which you will click OK. This is important to get the visual part of the lesson going.
- You will be asked to join the call with video. Click that prompt.
- Zoom will ask if it can access the microphone, which you will allow. Then your teacher can hear you.
- Zoom may ask if it can send you notifications, which you may want to allow. This will be useful in knowing when your lessons have begun or ended, as well as knowing if there has been something entered in the chat portion.
- You will have access to advanced settings by choosing “enable original sound.” This way the music will come through more clearly for your instructor, as well as for you.
- You may find that there is a recording option on Zoom. Using it may be helpful to you when you want to go back and recall some crucial tips in the lesson.
- Once you’ve finished the lesson, you or your teacher may end the call.
It’s as simple as that. There’s no need to feel stressed or worried about your online lessons; you may find that you actually prefer their convenience.
If you are interested in enrolling in Zoom music lessons, nothing is standing in your way. By following the above tips, you’ll see that learning how to play piano online is a highly accessible and comfortable opportunity. Don’t let the inability to meet in person deter you. Your piano lessons are waiting for you today!