Frequently Asked QuestionsQ.
What technology do I need for online lessons? A. You only need a computer/laptop/tablet with Zoom downloaded and WIFI. I wouldn't recommend a smartphone - the screen is small so you may find something larger more comfortable to look at. I will have additional cameras and microphones at my end so you can see and hear demonstrations clearly. You won't need these at your end though. Q. Isn't lesson quality better in person? A. Technology is constantly improving, and as a result everything that can be taught in person can be taught online. Sound quality is always going to be better in person - a little like comparing a recording and a live concert. Technical issues can sometimes arise which are disruptive. These are very rare, and if they do occur time can be made up elsewhere. Q. Are online lessons cheaper? A. Online lessons cost the same as in-person lessons. However, because of the nature of online lessons there are other savings elsewhere: - No travel costs or added expense of paying for a teacher traveling to you; - No need to purchase additional technology - your existing laptop/tablet will do just fine; - In many places lesson prices are higher than online prices (so lessons where you are might be dearer than where I am). Q. Can I still take exams? A. Whether learning online or in person exams are optional. Many of my students take ABRSM exams, and there are exam centres worldwide. Q. Is the format different to in-person lessons? A. The format of an online lesson would be very similar to that of an in-person lesson. The main difference would be that I would need to demonstrate more because I can't point at your own piano or hands. This is actually a good thing, because demonstrating is good practice. I would make more use of my Zoom whiteboard when teaching online and send screenshots - this is a nice visual way of sending practice notes each week. |
When the pandemic started I started teaching all of my students remotely. 2 years on and the majority of my students (who started in person) were still with me online. My family and I have also recently relocated (from Bristol to Belfast), and I have continued teaching many of my English students online.
Benefits to youTaking piano lessons online rather than in person may seem an unusual choice. However, there are many benefits:
1. You can learn from the comfort of your own home - no travelling required. 2. Online lessons can be easier to schedule around other things. 3. You can work with a teacher despite being a long distance from each other. 4. It is easy to prepare immediately before and practice immediately after a lesson (not possible when travelling). 5. During online lessons many things are demonstrated by me, the teacher, without the need/possibility of physical contact (hand/finger/sitting positions). 6. Learning online encourages students to interact with others and perform online, even with other students around the world. One of my camera views
Are there any downsides?There are a few downsides, but with problems come some solutions:
Problem. You don't get the opportunity to meet other musicians between lessons. Solution. There are lots of opportunities to meet other students at a similar stage over the internet. However, online lessons don't stop students from making contacts face to face, and joining music groups. Problem. The sound quality online is not as good as in person. Solution. Technology is always improving and therefore the sound quality is always getting better. That being said, it will never quite be the same, but this only applies to lessons and not practice or other events. Problem. Technical issues can arise from time to time. Solution. This is rare but sometimes does happen. If a problem such as a failure in internet or power does happen a lesson can be rearranged or even refunded if necessary. Problem. Duets and ensembles are not possible over video. Solution. Duets and Ensembles are an important part of performance, and they are to be encouraged. I provide recordings/backing tracks for students to practice playing duets/ensembles. Students can also join music groups where they can practice and perform in ensembles and duets. Or in a more informal setting I can help them get in touch with other musicians at a similar stage so they can meet up and practice together. |