If the past year has taught us anything, it’s that we can teach just about anything online. 

Want to move your business online? Want to teach piano virtually? It’s possible, and it doesn’t have to be difficult or complicated. 

You don’t need a high-tech studio. Instead, you need a plan and the ability to see, hear, and listen to your students. To support them as they achieve their own goals and learn piano from the comfort of their own homes. 

What you need is:

• Any device with a built-in camera. While a smartphone will do, upgrading to a tablet or laptop will give you more flexibility in the way you set up your space. 
  
• Access to the music your student will be using.
  
• A place to set your device, such as a music stand, so you can work with your student efficiently.

As your studio space becomes more sophisticated, you can consider adding things like:

• Headphones – they can help avoid feedback, and may make the communication clearer between you and your student.
  
• External microphone – it can make your communication clearer, especially if you’re working in a group format. 
  
• Tripod – if you move or change angles, a tripod can make the process seamless. 
  
• Apps and programs – Zoom is a great way to get started. But the more comfortable you get with teaching virtually, the more programs you can incorporate into your lessons. 

Let’s get down to teaching the piano virtually:

When it comes to actually teaching online, it may take a few tries to adapt to a learning style that works best for your needs. 

The first step will be to instruct your student setup formats. Once you have this down, it will be easy to replicate for other students. Consider creating an intro class – you can even video this and provide it as a part of your welcoming packet – where you describe how to set up student space for effective learning. You can provide low or no cost ways to connect virtually, and have guidelines for setting up play space so you can both move throughout the training effectively. 

Because you won’t be sitting near your student, you’ll have to use words to direct your students. Learn to listen to the way they play. Direct a student to change angles if you want to see posture or hand placement. Discover what works best for you to stop them mid-play and teach them improvement techniques. 

Don’t hesitate to demonstrate the skills you’re teaching. But remember, communication will be everything. You’ll have to pay attention to sounds and visual cues to pick up on how your students are managing. 

The key is in booking your first lesson, and moving forward and trying. We’re all on a learning curve. You can modify your classes over time. Teaching virtually is something you’ll perfect as you go.