Online Piano Lessons - Student Guide

Teaching Philosophy & Background

I developed my online teaching approach during my time touring with the Killers. What began as a practical solution has evolved into my preferred teaching method, particularly since remote learning became mainstream during the COVID pandemic. Online lessons offer unmatched scheduling flexibility while maintaining educational effectiveness.

My mission is to help students develop their musical voice in a way that genuinely connects with audiences. This is accomplished through focused study of:

• Musical melody and expression

• Harmony and chord relationships

• Understanding musical form and structure

• Technical proficiency and artistry

Teaching Methods & Resources

Video Support

After each lesson, students receive custom instructional videos that:

• Reinforce concepts covered in the lesson

• Can be reviewed multiple times at your own pace

• Demonstrate proper hand positioning and technique

• Serve as ongoing reference material

Core Musical Development

The foundation of my teaching approach centers on two key elements:

1. Musical Theory & Form

   • Understanding scales and key signatures

   • Learning chord progressions and harmony

   • Grasping musical structure and composition

   • Developing improvisational skills

2. Technical Development

   • Mastering proper fingering techniques

   • Building hand independence

   • Developing sight-reading abilities

   • Understanding dynamics and expression

These skills lead to:

• Enhanced musical interpretation

• Improved technical facility

• Better sight-reading ability

• Deeper musical understanding

Progress Monitoring

Students must regularly submit recordings using their phone or computer. This practice:

• Enables specific feedback on performance

• Creates a documented progress timeline

• Builds performance confidence

• Helps refine technique and interpretation

Required Equipment & Materials

Piano/Keyboard Requirements

• Acoustic piano (properly tuned) OR

• Digital piano/keyboard ($300+) with:

  • 88 weighted keys

  • Touch sensitivity

  • Sustain pedal

  • Built-in metronome

  • Quality sound samples

Technology Requirements

• Computer setup:

  • High-speed internet connection

  • Webcam

  • Quality microphone

  • Headphones (recommended)

• Recording software options:

  • PC: Audacity (free)

  • Mac: GarageBand or Logic

• Video platform account (Zoom or Skype)

• Second camera angle for hand position view (recommended)

Learning Materials

• Method books (based on skill level):

  • Beginners: Alfred's Basic Adult Piano Course

  • Intermediate: Keith Snell Piano Repertoire

  • Advanced: Selected based on student goals

• NoteFlight account (free) for homework assignments

• Music stand ($10-20)

• Metronome (if not built into keyboard) ($20)

• Pencils for marking music

Practice Space Setup

Your practice area should include:

• Well-lit space

• Proper seating height

• Good camera angles showing:

  • Full keyboard view

  • Hand position view

  • Face/upper body view

• Minimal background noise

• Stable internet connection

Getting Started Checklist

1. Acquire and set up your piano/keyboard

2. Ensure proper equipment placement for online lessons

3. Purchase required method books for your level

4. Install and test recording software

5. Create your NoteFlight account

6. Provide your Zoom/Skype contact information

7. Complete practice space setup with:

   • Proper lighting

   • Multiple camera angles

   • Comfortable seating position

   • All materials within reach