At the Home of Arts we also give online piano lessons. Internet makes it more than ever possible to connect with people who matter and gives opportunities to learn internationally without committing to country, place or neighborhood. There is no more sadness of saying goodbye when things move on.

The idea of teaching online came up very naturally. It was more of a need than a ‘genius invention’. Antoniya had to move from Dubai, UAE to Utrecht, the Netherlands. Some of her students having her as teacher for more than 8 years were very disappointed and sad. We had to find a way to continue their piano study. It just did not seem right to say goodbye and never again share the passion of playing piano together.

Gradually we adapted into the new style of the classes and online classes turned out to work really well. Over time we learnt the things which go well and which are a bit more challenging:

What goes well?

• No travel time for both sides.
• The comfort of your own home.
• Sharing recordings can advance the learning pace.
• Less cancellations and easier make-up classes which makes more consistent progress.

What is more challenging?

• The student needs to be more disciplined to maintain a complete focus during the class.
• Good internet connection from both sides.
• Adjusting the camera position before the class so the teacher can see the whole keyboard and the hands of the student.
• If there is a theory homework to be responsible to send the homework in advance.
• Regular communication with the parents about the progress of the child is very important.

Teacher’s equipment

• High speed internet connection
• Laptop
• Piano
• HD webcam
• Blue Yeti USB microphone
• Skype

The most important for the student is to have a laptop with Skype installed, a piano and a good internet connection: