eLESSONS Piano

E-LESSONS

GUIDELINES AND INSTRUCTIONS FOR ONLINE LESSONS

We use Zoom.us for online lessons. Here are some instructions on getting started.

CAMERA ANGLE

  • The best camera angle is replicating the perspective the teacher would have in the studio with the camera at music height on the right and angled to see the students hands, eyes, and music. The best tool we have found to help is a tablet/phone holder that can be attached to the piano, table or placed on the floor and bent into perfect position. Here are some holder options that we have tested for online lessons:
  • QUALITY - This is good quality that can be attached to the piano or a table. View on Amazon
  • AFFORDABLE - This one is a good value but does not hold the tablet well if it is in a case. View on Amazon
  • VERSATILE - This offers the most versatility by standing on the floor. View on Amazon


HEADPHONES

  • Just as with in-person lessons, the teacher wants to coach the student as they play online. This is best done if the student is wearing headphones. Here is an inexpensive pair of Bluetooth headphones that that we know work well. View on Amazon

CHAIR HEIGHT

  • The proper sitting position is important for proper technique. Ideally, the elbows are level with the keys and the chair or bench is set back so that the elbows are in front of the body. If you are using a common chair or non-adjustable piano bench, you will most likely have to raise up the student's sitting position with books or pillows. With a regular piano key height of 30 inches this will mean raising the chair to 22 inches for younger students. If you have a keyboard with an adjustable stand you could lower the keyboard to the height of the chair.
  • Adjustable benches are not very expensive and make playing much more comfortable. View on Amazon


FOOT STOOL

  • Having a place for the feet to rest also helps students keep good posture at the instrument. Consider getting a small foot stool to keep at the piano. VIEW ON AMAZON

SOUND QUALITY

  • The default settings on Zoom try to suppress background noise. You will want to go into the settings of your app and turn on "Original Sound" so that it doesn't try to cut out the sound of the instrument. See this instructional video for step-by-step instructions.


IMAHOVLAND.COM

  • Playing along with the videos at www.imahovland.com is almost essential for online learning. We have noticed a distinct difference between students who regularly play along with the videos. While it is a little difficult to follow along at first, with a little perseverance it does get easier and the student will find playing more fun. 
  • It is important to note that the videos are not only intended for those taking lessons online. They are intended for all students to use for at home play. 


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