Thinking of starting music lessons for yourself or your child? Wondering if it's possible during the pandemic? Yes it is entirely possible! In fact, many music schools are offering music lessons online. Here are some tips to get started so the experience will go smoothly.
1. Do not buy instruments from Amazon or any generic online store - buy from your local music store.
The quality of instruments on Amazon are sub par - although it may seem cheaper those instruments are will break easily and will not produce good quality sound. Better to invest a little more into an instrument that is reliable and will last. Click the link below to see a list of stores in Toronto that provide instruments.
2. Get an external microphone
The default mic on your phone and laptop is fine for conversation, but is not the best to translate sound. Getting a better mic will allow your teacher to be able to hear you better and provide better feedback. Nothing too fancy is required - you can get a $30 - $50 dollar mic off Amazon that will make a big difference. As a teacher myself, it is clear which students have an external mic, and allows me to give better quality instruction to my students. Trust me - your teacher will appreciate it a lot!
3. Learn how to tune your instrument
Especially if you're playing guitar, violin or cello, the instrument will become out of tune frequently. Due to lessons being online you will not have the luxury of your teacher tuning your instrument on a weekly basis. Ask your teacher to teach you how to tune your instrument, especially if you have a young child who's learning. Tuning instruments can be tricky and delicate for children to do so you will be the primary tuner for the instrument.
4. Buy a music stand.
We have seen many times where students would use a wall or laptop to prop up music and their video recording device to host lessons, which seems fine however will produce some neck and back strain over long periods of time especially if lessons are half an hour to an hour long. A music stand will fix those problems as they are height adjustable. There are two types of music stands
Classic Stand
These are the standard music stand that you see in concerts and performances.
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Very durable
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Heavier and more expensive ($60 - $90)
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Holds music, pencils and phone easily
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Recommended if the stand stays at home.
Wire Stand
These are music stands designed for bring while travelling around.
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Not as durable
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Light, compact and cheaper ($20 - $40)
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Can hold music, pencils and phone but not as much weight as the classic stand
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Recommended as a cheaper option that still gets the job done - also if you plan on travelling around with a music stand.
5. Test your camera beforehand
When learning an instrument in person, your teacher has a full view of how you play your instrument. However when online your teacher can only see what your camera shows them! You'll save a lot of time and get some brownie points from your future teacher if you figure out a setup for your camera so that your teacher can see you and the full instrument in its entirety.
If you're unsure of how to hold your instrument or where it should be placed, you can look up videos of people playing your instrument so you get an idea. Most likely your teacher would want to adjust a bit but much time will be saved if you do this beforehand.
And that's it! You are all set for having music lessons online. If you wish to learn more contact us at info.soundboxstudios@gmail.com.