Getting Ready for a Virtual Lesson
- Tre Cooper
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
While many of us look back on 2020 with hesitation, one positive outcome was discovering easier ways to stay connected. Virtual lessons became a reliable and effective option for music studios around the world—and they continue to be an important part of how we work together today.
All virtual lessons take place over Zoom. You’ll receive an email prior to your lesson start time containing your Zoom link. Please plan to join a few minutes early so we can begin on time.
Here's how to set yourself up for success
Get Zoom Ready
Zoom can be accessed through a web browser or the Zoom app—either option works. Just be sure Zoom is installed (if using the app) and open before your lesson begins.
Join the Lesson
When you click your Zoom link, you’ll enter a waiting room. I’ll admit you right at your scheduled lesson time.
Enable Original Sound for Musicians
This step is extremely important. Zoom’s default audio settings filter out key musical details, which can impact tone, dynamics, and overall sound quality. Please be sure that original sound for musicians is enabled on your device beforethe lesson begins.Specific, device-by-device instructions can be found at the bottom of this post.
Bring a Second Device for Music Please have a separate device available for playing accompaniment during your lesson, such as a metronome or MP3/backing tracks. For example, you might use your phone for Zoom and an iPad for tracks, or a laptop for Zoom and your phone for a metronome.To avoid distortion and timing issues, do not play music from the same device you’re using for Zoom.
Set Yourself Up
Have anything you may need for your lesson nearby—sheet music, Sing Ring, an instrument, or water—and choose a quiet space where your face and upper body are visible on camera.
PRE-MEETING INSTRUCTIONS 📱 Mobile App
Open Zoom and log in
Tap your profile picture (top left)
Settings → Audio
Enable Original Sound for Musicians
💻 Computer
Open Zoom Settings (Mac: ⌘ + , | Windows: CTRL + , )
Audio
Microphone Modes
Enable Original Sound for Musicians
MID-MEETING INSTRUCTIONS 📱 Mobile App
Tap the three dots (bottom right)
Settings
Audio
Enable Original Sound for Musicians
💻 Computer
Click the ▲ arrow next to Audio
Microphone Modes
Select Original Sound for Musicians
