We are living in strange and unpredictable times, that much is true, but as unsettling as life may feel at the moment, there is absolutely no reason why you shouldn’t continue singing, learning and honing your craft. A lot of creatives have started offering their services online (us included) because we want to keep connected with our clients and because we know how truly beneficial and fulfilling singing is. At a time like this, we all need something to lift our spirits and raise a smile, so here are our 5 top tips to make the most out of your online singing lesson.
1. Have a good idea of what you want to get out of your lesson before you join.
Perhaps you need help with new song suggestions or have a specific technical goal in mind? Whatever the reason, it’s a great idea to share this with your coach beforehand so they can prep efficiently to deliver an in-depth lesson that is tailor made to your needs.
2. Book your lesson at a time that you’ll feel most comfortable.
At home you will have to consider other flatmates and/or family members. Where possible, choose a time of day when those that you live with are out for their daily walk perhaps or ask if they wouldn’t mind going into another room whilst your lesson takes place. This will help you create as safe a space as possible and feel comfortable enough to entirely let go and achieve what you set out to.
3. Get familiar with your home set up.
Let’s be honest, not all of us are tech savvy, so spending some time beforehand familiarising yourself with the software you will use for your lesson is a really good idea.
The likelihood is that software such as Zoom or Skype will be used for your lesson and these programs function best on a laptop or computer desktop, so try to use one of these, rather than a phone or tablet where certain functions are unavailable.
For optimal wireless connection it’s best to be in the same room or as near as possible to your router.
Close down all other windows on your device to lower chances of audio lag. (delay)
If possible, ask the people you live with to limit their internet usage whilst you have your lesson to further maximise bandwidth.
It’s also a nice idea to record yourself singing the song you want to work on before the lesson so it can be sent to your coach for assessment during the lesson. We’ve found that high frequency or belted sounds are harder to pick up on Zoom, so by having a pre-recording, your coach can have a complete picture of the song and your areas of concern.
4. Record your lesson.
Software like Zoom enables you to record a meeting at the touch of a button. This is a fantastic feature that will further serve you in your continued independent practice and is something you would probably have done from an audio point of view in a face to face lesson anyway.
5. Lastly, HAVE FUN!
We know this might be the first time you’re having an online lesson but it is more commonplace than you might think. Many coaches were offering online services long before it was our only option, so feel supported by the fact that your coach will troubleshoot any issues you might run into along the way. You might even prefer being in the comfort of your own home and continue to take advantage of learning online long after lockdown.
Singing is such a source of enjoyment and a fantastic release of endorphins for a lot of us and being able to continue supporting our clients through this time is our absolute pleasure.
If you are interested in booking a lesson with us, send an email here and we’ll be in touch.
Stay home, stay singing and stay safe.
Gemma and Kelly
