Virtual Music Lessons...did you ever think there would be a time where we would HAVE to have a virtual violin or viola lesson? I am just as shocked as you, but I do have to say that after having a week's worth of Virtual Music lessons with all of my students, I am actually very excited about this new option we have! It is a way to keep normalcy and consistency in this crazy time of the Corona Virus, keep moving forward with our music development, and keep social interaction with each other.
This pas week showed me that even though we are behind a screen and not physically with each other, we still have connection and still have things to improve on.
Here is some advise to all of my students while we have Virtual Music Lessons :
1. Be ready with your instrument, music, stand, notebook and pencil 5 minutes before the lesson starts.
2. Write in your music or notebook during the lesson if something is addressed or needs to be improved. Since I am not there to actually write in your notebook, you can write notes in the music or notebook to help you remember.
3. Turn the camera or devise side ways so we can see each other in a larger format. After teaching lots of virtual lessons this week, I found that I could see more of the student playing if we were side ways and used up the whole screen.
4. Come up with the same time of day to practice to create a consistent schedule. My kids and I have stuck to our daily schedule this week and it has been so great to make sure we are getting in our workout, homework, reading time, spring cleaning, music time, free time and family fun time.
5. Play your instrument for your family in your home and through facetime with your friends! Sharing the gift of music is the best thing we can do right now!
6. Take your practicing seriously so we can continue to progress instead of go backwards!
Good luck to you in this new way of having lessons! Look at it as an adventure and a new way of learning instead of getting frustrated. I was very optimistic this week with the way virtual lessons went! Good job for everyone being willing and prepared for their lesson!!!
