SAY YES TO REMOTE LEARNING!
Hawaii MusicWorks
During the Covid lockdowns of 2020, online music lessons have become a popular alternative to traditional in-person lessons, offering numerous advantages. While the pandemic initially drove the rise in virtual learning, many students and instructors have continued to embrace this format for its flexibility, accessibility, and effectiveness. MusicWorks offers both a fully online experience as well as a hybrid alternative where students are face to face with their instructors and feedback and discussions happen in real time, allowing for immediate questions and clarifications. If you’re thinking about online lessons, here are some key benefits:
1. Accessibility and Convenience
Imagine no more sitting in traffic! With no commute, you’ll save money on gas, AND you’ll save time. Lessons can fit seamlessly between homework, or class or work schedules.
Imagine no more sitting in traffic! With no commute, you’ll save money on gas, AND you’ll save time. Lessons can fit seamlessly between homework, or class or work schedules.
Another great advantage is accessibility. Geographic location is no longer a limitation, allowing students to connect with skilled teachers from anywhere, on any island, the US Mainland, or beyond.
2. Comfort and Familiarity of the Learning Environment
Students learning from home can practice in a familiar environment, which may help reduce performance anxiety. This is particularly beneficial for young children or those who may find it intimidating to learn in a formal studio setting.Home learning also allows students to use their own instruments and equipment, ensuring they are learning on the tools they will practice with most frequently. This allows students to set up their learning space to best suit their needs, whether it’s choosing a quiet room or adjusting their instrument for optimal sound quality.
3. Recordings and Additional Online Resources
Moreover, the digital format allows teachers to share additional resources in real time. Sheet music, tutorial videos, or online exercises can be instantly sent via chat, allowing students to access learning materials easily.One of the unique advantages of taking lessons online is the ability to record sessions. Video conferencing software often have built-in recording features, which allow students to review their lessons at any time. This is incredibly helpful for reinforcing learning, revisiting tricky sections of the material, or practicing specific exercises outside of scheduled lesson times. Students who may have missed parts of the lesson or want to review their instructor's feedback can easily go back to recordings to clarify points they might not have fully understood.
Moreover, the digital format allows teachers to share additional resources in real time. Sheet music, tutorial videos, or online exercises can be instantly sent via chat, allowing students to access learning materials easily.
4. Improved Focus and Attention
Interestingly, online lessons can sometimes lead to greater focus and attention. With a more direct, face-to-face interaction on the screen, students may find themselves concentrating more on their instructor’s instructions. There are fewer distractions that come with being in a new or unfamiliar environment, and many students find that one-on-one instruction via video chat can foster an intimate and productive learning atmosphere.For teachers, Zoom lessons provide an opportunity to closely observe students’ technique and posture, as well as their facial expressions, which can be useful for gauging their understanding or level of engagement.
Conclusion
Taking music lessons over Zoom offers a range of benefits, from convenience and cost-effectiveness to access to a wider pool of instructors and learning resources. The ability to record sessions, and learn in a comfortable, familiar environment enhances the overall experience for students. As technology continues to improve, online lessons are likely to remain a valuable tool for aspiring musicians of all levels.