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

Music Theory Made Simple The Essential Basics Every Pianist Needs

By Reshmi Patel • April 14, 2025
Music theory is the foundation of great piano playing. Here are the essential concepts every beginner should know: 1. Notes and the Musical Alphabet Music consists of 12 notes: A, B, C, D, E, F, G, and their sharps and flats. Learning the notes on the keyboard is the first step. 2. Understanding Rhythm and Time Signatures Time signatures tell you how many beats are in each measure. The most common is 4/4 time, where each measure has four beats. 3. Chords and Scales Scales build finger strength and understanding of key signatures, while chords provide harmonic structure. Start with major and minor scales, then move to simple triads. 4. Intervals and Ear Training Intervals (the distance between two notes) help with sight-reading and ear training, allowing you to recognize harmonies in music. 5. Reading Sheet Music Learning how to read notes on the staff will allow you to play a wider variety of music and become more independent as a pianist. 6. Applying Theory to Playing Understanding theory isn’t just academic - it helps you improvise, compose, and interpret music more expressively. By mastering these basics, you’ll build a solid foundation for piano success! Get in touch to find out more information here: www.keysoundsuk.com/contact

How Learning Piano Can Boost Your Career, Skills, and Well-Being for Life

By Reshmi Patel • April 14, 2025
Learning to play the piano is more than just mastering an instrument, it’s a skill that can enrich your life in countless ways. Whether you dream of a full-time career in music, a side gig performing or teaching, or simply want to enjoy playing as a hobby, the piano offers lifelong benefits. Here’s why sticking with piano practice, whether you’re a beginner or an intermediate player, is always a great idea. 1. Opens Doors to Musical Career Opportunities If you’re passionate about music, learning the piano can lead to exciting career paths. You could become a professional musician, a music teacher, an accompanist, or even a composer. With dedication and practice, the piano can be a stepping stone to a fulfilling career in the music industry. 2. A Side Gig with Endless Possibilities Even if you don’t pursue music full-time, piano skills can provide additional income opportunities. You could play at events, teach lessons part-time, or collaborate with other musicians. Having a musical side gig can be both financially and personally rewarding. 3. Enhances Cognitive and Emotional Well-Being Studies show that playing the piano improves memory, coordination, and concentration. It also serves as a creative and emotional outlet, helping to relieve stress and boost overall mental well-being. 4. Builds Confidence and Discipline Learning piano requires patience, practice, and perseverance. As you progress, you’ll develop confidence in your abilities and a sense of achievement that carries over into other areas of life. 5. Lifelong Enjoyment as a Hobby Even if you never perform professionally, playing the piano is a rewarding lifelong hobby. Whether you’re playing for yourself, family, or friends, music brings joy and relaxation at any age. 6. Social and Collaborative Opportunities Piano playing isn’t just a solo activity. You can join bands, accompany singers, or participate in community events. Music fosters connections and brings people together in meaningful ways. Whether you pursue piano as a career, a side gig, or a hobby, the benefits are undeniable. From cognitive growth to creative expression, piano playing is a skill that stays with you for life. Keep practicing, stay motivated, and enjoy the journey because every note you play adds value to your life. Get in touch to find out more information here: www.keysoundsuk.com/contact

Five Common Piano Learning Myths And the Truth Behind Them

By Reshmi Patel • April 7, 2025
Many people hesitate to learn piano due to common myths that discourage them. Let’s debunk these misconceptions and show why anyone can succeed at playing piano. 1. "You Need to Start as a Child to Be Good" While starting young has advantages, adults can learn just as effectively with consistent practice and the right approach. Many adult beginners achieve great results by setting structured goals. 2. "You Must Have Natural Talent to Play Well" Talent helps, but piano playing is a skill that improves with practice. Even professional musicians rely more on dedication than raw talent. 3. "Learning to Read Music Is Too Hard" Reading sheet music may seem daunting at first, but it’s like learning a new language. With step-by-step guidance and regular practice, anyone can master it. 4. "You Need an Expensive Piano to Learn Properly" A high-end piano is nice, but not necessary. A simple digital keyboard with weighted keys is enough to build skills and technique. 5. "Practicing for Hours Every Day Is Required to Improve" Quality matters more than quantity. Short, focused practice sessions (20–30 minutes) with proper technique yield better results than mindless repetition. By breaking these myths, more people can confidently start their piano journey and enjoy the process! Get in touch to find out more information here: www.keysoundsuk.com/contact
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