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Key Sounds UK • May 15, 2020

OUR BEST PRACTICES USING ZOOM FOR ONLINE PIANO LESSONS

Since a lot of us have moved online due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, we’ve been exploring applications which can help suit our style of work.


This blog can be useful for students, teachers and those who are currently or looking to learn online.


Here’s a brief checklist of what you will need in preparation for an online Piano Lesson with Key Sounds UK:


1. Internet connection – using your local/home wifi or mobile data 


2. A device with a camera – our students use iPad, PC or a phone with the Zoom app installed onto their device prior to the call. 


3. Zoom – our preferable software for online lessons is Zoom because when we cover music theory content, we can screen share when analysing sections of the sheet music and guide students through online videos and activities we have created for them. The Zoom app is also free and easy to install on any device. We recommend students to download the app on their mobile phone or tablets via their given app store. For those using computers, they can visit: www.zoom.us/download and click the big blue ‘download’ button at the top of the page. It will be labelled ‘Zoom Client for Meetings.’


4. A place to put your device so that your students can see you and your piano – some of our students use adjustable desks, chairs or tripods.


5. Any lesson notes are sent via Google Drive or email. Students can communicate via email in between lessons too so that we can better support their progress.


6. Good ears, body language and communication skills. Since we cannot see the students directly in front of us, we have to listen carefully to their playing even more so than usual. We also have to be overly communicative as we cannot point to the music as we may do in face-to-face lessons. Finally – smile and have fun! 



So far our audio channels have worked well but for those who are looking to experiment, feel free to check out this video:

We are so fortunate to have such cooperative students and tools available to us. Let’s take advantage of them and help spread the joys of learning and listening to music.

Feel free to ask us any questions you may have, we are more than happy to help.

For more tips and tricks follow us on Instagram: @keysoundsuk or Facebook: www.facebook.com/keysoundsuk

Unlock Your Musical Potential by Learning to Play the Piano

By Key Sounds UK • 13 May, 2024
Embarking on a musical journey opens doors to a world of creativity, expression, and personal growth. At Key Sounds UK Piano School, we believe that learning to play the piano isn't just about mastering notes and chords; it's about discovering your unique voice and unleashing your full potential. We are committed to providing a diverse range of musical opportunities for children, teenagers, and adults alike, fostering communication, confidence, and concentration - what we like to call the three C's of musical development. Cultivating the Three C's: Communication, Confidence, Concentration Communication is at the heart of music. Through the language of piano, students learn to express themselves in ways words cannot. Whether conveying joy through a lively melody or evoking introspection with a soulful ballad, students develop a deep understanding of emotional communication. Confidence blossoms as students overcome challenges, master new skills, and perform in front of supportive peers. Our nurturing environment encourages students to step outside their comfort zones, empowering them to embrace their strengths and embrace their unique musical voice. Concentration is a skill honed through focused practice and attentive listening. As students delve into intricate melodies and complex harmonies, they learn the art of mindfulness and develop the ability to channel their thoughts into their music, fostering a sense of clarity and purpose. Performance Opportunities for All We believe that every student deserves the chance to shine. That's why we create performance opportunities for all students, regardless of age or skill level. From intimate recitals to grand showcases, our students have the chance to share their musical talents with friends, family, and the wider community. These performances not only celebrate individual achievements but also foster a sense of camaraderie and support among our musical family. A World of Musical Exploration Diversity is key to our approach to piano education. We offer a wide range of musical styles to cater to every taste and interest. Whether you're drawn to the elegance of classical music, the improvisational freedom of jazz, the vibrant rhythms of bollywood, the emotive power of film scores, or the spontaneity of improvisation, our expert instructors are here to guide you on your musical journey. Flexible Learning Paths At Key Sounds UK Piano School, we understand that every student is unique. That's why we offer flexible learning paths tailored to individual goals and preferences. While we provide the option to work towards piano exams for those who desire formal certification, we believe that progress should be measured not just by grades but by personal growth and artistic development. Our holistic approach focuses on nurturing a lifelong love of music, empowering students to become confident, expressive musicians. Join Us on a Musical Adventure Whether you're a budding musician or a seasoned performer, there's always something new to discover at Key Sounds UK Piano School . Join us on a musical adventure and unlock your full potential at the piano. Together, let's explore the boundless possibilities of music and celebrate the joy of creative expression.

The Future of Piano Lessons and Music Education

By Key Sounds UK • 06 May, 2024
At Key Sounds UK, we take pride in our comprehensive understanding of music education, particularly in the realm of ABRSM Piano exams. Our dedicated team possesses both expertise and enthusiasm, ensuring that every student receives the guidance and support needed to excel in their piano journey. With qualified instructors who are aware of the rigorous requirements and standards set by such examinations, rest assured that your child will be equipped with the skills and knowledge to succeed in ABRSM Piano exams and beyond. However, at Key Sounds UK, we understand that musical education encompasses more than just exam preparation. While we are committed to providing top-tier instruction for ABRSM Piano exams and other piano-related assessments, we also recognize the importance of fostering a well-rounded musical education. Our curriculum is designed to cultivate creativity, expression, and musical appreciation through a diverse range of teaching methods and repertoire selection. Looking ahead, Key Sounds UK is excited to expand our offerings beyond traditional piano exams. While these examinations remain a cornerstone of our curriculum, we also believe in the value of exploring diverse musical genres, improvisation, composition, and collaborative performance opportunities. By embracing a holistic approach to music education, we empower our students to develop the skills, confidence, and versatility needed to thrive as musicians in today's ever-evolving musical landscape. Join us at Key Sounds UK, where we are dedicated to nurturing the complete musician in every student. If you wish to know more about these hacks and resources, feel free to take a look around our website or connect with us directly !

How Parents Can Support Piano Students Outside of their Piano Lessons

By Key Sounds UK • 22 Apr, 2024
Even for non-musical piano parents, there are ways to gauge your child's advancement in piano lessons. Firstly, observe the consistency and enjoyment your child displays during practice sessions. Regular and enthusiastic practice often indicates a commitment to improvement. If your child willingly sits down at the piano and appears engaged during practice, it suggests progress. Additionally, notice the complexity of the pieces they tackle. As they advance, you should witness them taking on more challenging pieces with increased ease and confidence, which can further reflect their enjoyment and progress. Secondly, pay attention to your child's posture and how they feel while playing. Progress in piano often correlates with improved hand position, posture, and overall technique. Even as a non-musical parent, you can observe if your child's fingers move more smoothly across the keys and if they maintain a relaxed posture compared to when they began lessons. Look for signs of correct finger placement, hand shape, and wrist movement, as these elements contribute to better sound production and efficiency in playing, potentially enhancing their enjoyment of the instrument. Lastly, prioritize communication with the piano teacher to gain insights into your child's progress. While you may not grasp the technicalities of music theory or piano playing, regular feedback from the instructor provides valuable information. At our school, we emphasize open communication and encourage feedback from all our students, irrespective of their musical background. Discussing your child's strengths, areas for improvement, and overall enjoyment with the teacher fosters a clearer understanding of their musical journey. This feedback loop ensures active involvement in your child's education and enables effective support for their development, emphasizing their enjoyment and emotional connection with the piano. If you wish to know more about these hacks and resources, feel free to take a look around our website or connect with us directly !
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