At the moment most music lessons take place over video conference or are just cancelled.  I have compiled some tips to help you with making the most out of your lessons in this stressful time.  I have been having online music lessons for 2 months on the harp so here are some tips I have picked up along the way.  
1. Warm up before the lesson starts

Normally my music lesson does not take place at my house. So when I get to the music school I don’t have any time to warm up my fingers. By warming up earlier your hands will move better will save time in your lesson.  

2. Put your lessons into your calendar

I have found that because I am not in the normal building, it’s a lot easier to forget when your lesson starts. Not only does having a visual reminder of your lesson time help with the routine, but when asking when your friends are free to talk, it’s easier to not double book.

3. Ensure silence

Make sure that everyone who will be in your home at the time of your lesson knows what time it starts.  This means that if you have a sister who might come into your music room and start playing piano (yes, almost happened to me), you minimise the risk of anyone distracting you from your lesson.  

4. Device choice

Personally, I prefer using a laptop for my music lessons.  My laptop is actually quite small and the camera is dodgy, so I borrow my dad’s.  I prefer a laptop to my phone simply because the laptop has a bigger screen so I can see my teacher better and also the acoustics are better.  

When choosing your device you have to remember that some are better than others for different instruments.  For example, for my sister who plays piano, she prefers a phone because she can move it closer to her fingers.  

5. Prevent being cut off

Before your lesson starts make sure your device is fully charged.  Also, make sure your wi-fi is working well.  You should also do a test, by turning on your front camera.  This means you should see your instrument in the camera properly, so your teacher can see you best.  

6. Have your equipment ready

This means that you have a metronome on hand (can be an app on a phone).  Also a pencil and pen to make notes on your music and notebook.  One thing I’ve discovered recently is using translucent sticky notes for marking where I need to work on the piece.  I’ve found that they are quicker to use than writing all the detail into my notebook.  

7. Best angles

For the past two months, I have kept a stack of books and board games.  I used them to change the height of my laptop, which helps to adjust the height fairly quickly during my lesson.  

8. Do proper note-taking

Most music teachers make notes for working on before the next lesson.  Obviously not you have to make your own.  Personally, I try and do the same layout as my teacher.  But if you find it hard to keep up with the writing and playing, you can get an adult or sibling in your house to help take notes.  Now more than ever we actually have to fully concentrate for every second of the lesson, so make sure if your notes aren’t clear during the lesson.  REWRITE them right after!!!! You will not regret it.  

9. Bar number your music

Label each line of music with the bar number – like what Sibelius does.  Here’s an example: