What Equipment Do I Need?

You probably already have everything you need to get started with a remote lesson.

Piano or Keyboard

You will need to have a properly tuned and working piano in your home. Ideally, it will be in its own quiet space, free from distraction.

 

A keyboard is an acceptable substitute for a piano.

Computer or Tablet

You will need a computer or tablet with a screen large enough to see the teacher. The computer needs to have a webcam so you can be seen. If you have a tablet, you should already have a built-in camera.

The computer can be Windows-based or a Mac, but the newer and more powerful the computer, the better the experience. An i7 processor is ideal, but i5 will also generally work well. The webcam should support at least 1080p for best visual experience.

Internet Connection

You will need a good Internet connection in order to send the audio and video at an acceptable quality. Some neighbourhoods are wired with Fibre Internet, and this would certainly give the best experience. If Fibre is not available, a cable or other connection with a speed of at least 3 Mbps is recommended.

If you would like to test your Internet speed from your computer or device of choice, Speedtest is a great place to start.

Zoom App

Download the Zoom app for your device of choice, and you will be given a link and password to use to connect. Once you click on the link, the Zoom application is started, and it will connect to your camera and audio connection (the webcam or tablet should have a built in microphone).

You should now be able to see and hear the teacher; your lesson is ready to begin!

This is the teacher’s home studio, with a laptop computer and two webcams (one for a top-down view of the keyboard, and one to interact with the teacher).
Your webcam should be positioned in such a way that the teacher can see you and your keyboard. This is an example of what the teacher should see.