How the world has changed! I’ve now been conducting piano lessons online for most of the year and to my delight I’ve discovered that piano is one of those things that translates extremely well to the online format BUT it really helps to get the setup correct. You can get started with a very simple setup and of course take it to the next level with microphones, headsets and midi connections.
But lets not get carried away. Nothing fancy is required to have a great experience and you probably have all or most of the equipment already on hand. Here’s a mini guide with the basics to get you started.
EQUIPMENT
- Laptop, ipad/tablet or smartphone (note the bigger the screen the better from the students perspective).
- Download the Zoom app onto your device
- Table, tripod, selfie stick or stand
- Fast internet and an ethernet cable. If you can plug directly into your modem via ethernet cable I highly recommend this option however if your wifi is stable this is not required.
- Chargers on hand for all portable devices
SET-UP
One device:
Position your device so the focuses on the hands and piano keyboard. Set up at a 90 degree angle to the student/piano and a little higher than the keys angling the camera towards the hands. Please note that posture is also important so please ensure that the student is also in view. A side table and a few large books usually do the trick to get your laptop up high enough. And we’re done for the basic set up.
Two Devices (optional):
Set up the first device as described, the second device can be set up on the piano music stand to enable students to easily watch my hands and demonstrations. If you use two devices you’ll need two zoom accounts (its free). One device will log in with video only and the other with audio and video
Audio Settings:
- On the homescreen of your zoom app click on the settings icon and go into audio settings
- Under microphone UNCHECK the box to automatically adjust volume
- Click on Advanced in the bottom right corner
- Check the box to enable Original Sound
- In meetings make sure your Original Sound box is highlight during piano lessons.
Other Accessories:
Webcams: If you have a webcam you can set this up using a single zoom account. Plug it in via USB and you’ll be able to toggle between cameras, set up each camera as described above.
Headphones: This is a personal preference, headphones are not required for lessons but can help with distractions etc.
Microphone: Also not required as most devices have adequate microphones these days but they can improve the audio if you already have one at home
And we’re all ready to go.