🎹 How to Prepare for Virtual Piano Lessons

Read and Rhythm Studio

To make sure your child gets the most out of their virtual piano lessons, it’s important to have a simple, reliable setup. A few small adjustments can make a huge difference in how well I can hear, teach, and support your student.

Here’s how to get everything ready:

beginner piano

đź’» 1. Choose the Right Device

  • Use a laptop or tablet whenever possible (phones are harder to position)
  • Make sure the device is fully charged or plugged in
  • Position the device so I can clearly see:
    • Your child’s hands
    • The keyboard

🎧 2. Set Up Zoom Audio (VERY IMPORTANT)

This is the #1 issue in online music lessons—so please take a moment to adjust these settings before your first lesson.

In Zoom, please do the following:

  • Turn ON:
    • “Original Sound for Musicians” (or “Original Sound”)
  • Turn OFF:
    • Background noise suppression (set to Low if needed)
    • Echo cancellation (if it interferes with sound)

👉 These settings allow me to hear the piano clearly without Zoom cutting off or distorting the sound.

Before each lesson:

  • Join the meeting a few minutes early
  • Test your audio by playing a few notes
  • Make sure I can hear both speaking and piano playing clearly
beginner piano

🎹 3. Piano & Seating Setup

  • Use a real piano or full-size keyboard if possible
  • Sit on a stable bench or chair (not too low or too high)
  • Keep the keyboard area well-lit so I can see hand position

đź“· 4. Camera Position Matters

Your camera angle should show:

  • The full keyboard
  • Your child’s hands and posture

đź’ˇ Tip:
Place the device slightly to the side—not directly in front—so I can see hand movement more clearly.

beginner piano

đź“š 5. Have Materials Ready

Before the lesson begins, please have:

  • Assigned lesson books
  • Any printed music
  • A pencil

No scrambling during lesson time—we want to use every minute well.

🔕 6. Minimize Distractions & Be Ready To Start On Time

    • Log in 2–3 minutes early
    • Have everything set up before the lesson begins

    Consistency helps students feel prepared and successful. Sometimes tech mishaps happen, and I understand (those things happen to me, too!) But on average, let’s work together to be prompt and ready for our students to perform well.

    ❤️ Final Note

    Virtual lessons can be incredibly effective when the setup is right. These small steps help me:

    • Hear your child clearly
    • Give better feedback
    • Create a smooth, enjoyable learning experience

    If you ever need help setting things up, I’m happy to walk you through it! I’m only an email away- pianowithmrsdee@gmail.com