Online Music Lessons FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Online Music Lessons at DCC Academy of Music
While an online setting for studying music may seem strange at first, it really is
just as engaging as in-person. Visit our YouTube channel for Behind the Scenes videos showing what it's like.
Q: What kind of equipment do I need?
All you need to get started is a computer with a webcam, a laptop, a tablet, or a smart phone with a reliable internet connection.
You will only need a 5 mbs internet connection speed, which by today’s standards is fairly slow. (Test your speed here.)
There are accessories and other gear such as headphones, microphones, and audio interfaces which can improve your audio and experience. But none of those are required.
If you find that you want to improve your experience, we have technical support associates available who will guide you in the right direction. Contact Laura or Christian at (845) 431-8916 to set up a consultation.
Q: I am not very computer savvy - will I run into any technical issues?
DCC Academy of Music has students of all ages and skill levels, both musically and technologically.
Do not feel intimidated by any of the technical challenges you think you may encounter. We have an extremely supportive technical staff that can help you get started, and work with you to make sure you are able to achieve the best video and audio quality for your lessons and group classes.
Q: What video chat platform do you use?
Our instructors use whatever platform the students are most comfortable with. For achieving the highest video and audio quality, our instructors primarily use Zoom for group classes. However, our instructors will use other platforms for individual lessons depending on the student’s preference.
Q: Are online lessons less personal?
While you are not physically in the same room as your instructor, you are still working with them one-on-one, or in a group setting.
Our Academy of Music instructors create personalized music lessons for all of their students, whether the meetings take place in-person or online.
Our students have found online music lessons to be just as personal as their in-person lessons.
Q: Are online lessons and group classes cheaper than in person?
Online lessons and group classes cost the same as in person. You are still paying for your teacher’s time and expertise. And you get exactly the same amount of your teacher’s time and expertise when online or offline.
Q: Will my child still be just as attentive online?
Many of our students have made more musical growth through online lessons as opposed to in-person lessons. This phenomenon has been especially apparent for our younger students.
Both in-person and online lessons have their advantages and disadvantages. Online lessons restrict some of the normal physical qualities found in an in-person setting, pushing a different level of attention on the student’s side and helping them improve their playing in a more efficient manner.