Online Flute and Picc Lessons with Molly Shortridge
I have a flute studio of about 55-60 students, and almost all them switched to online lessons. I have found that I am able to teach equally effectively and have even developed some new learning experiences that I hope to continue when we are back to in-person lessons. Here are some changes and fun things we are doing in the studio:
Students are continuing to work on audition material, method books, technical exercises, and music repertoire, but in addition, I have been sending students many extra pieces of free, online, sheet music and listening links. Students are making “Quarantine notebooks” of these extra exercises and music, so that they continue to be practicing and excited about music.
I introduced a “Canned Food Drive” practice challenge as well, and I have agreed to donate 10 cans of food for each 100 hours of practice from the entire studio.Many students are also participating in a “Food for Scales” challenge, implemented but method book author, Kathy Blocki.
I have found, in particular, that the nature of online teaching requires more verbal discussion and understanding of music terminology. I am using games to help them understand the elements of music and the meaning of musical terms. This is very good for each students musical development and understanding. I am glad to be there for each of my students during this difficult time. I have heard from many parents that they are simply glad that another person is there for their child. I also have adult students, and they are happy to have a goal-oriented session that helps take their mind off of the current troubles.
While I am looking forward to resuming one on one lessons at my studio at the Perfect 5th, I will continue to offer online lessons in the future, even after the Covid outbreak. I am finding it very convenient for many of my students and they are finding out that learning flute this way is working!
“I like my online lessons because I can learn from the comfort of my own home. I feel that I am learning just as much and completely required skills on my flute” -Kayla