Introduction to Online Lessons with James Brady
Updated: Jul 22, 2020
Since we're all moving to online teaching and homeschooling, at least for the foreseeable future, I've made a short video introducing myself and providing a few tips on how to get set up and make the most of your time at home.
Here's a summary of the video in case you can't use sound right now:
1 | How to prepare
Put a little advance thought into your lesson environment to get the most out of the experience.
Ensure you have enough room to play, set up your music, and see the screen, preferably all at once.
If possible, use a wired internet connection.
A desktop or laptop is generally better than a tablet or smartphone.
Consider investing in an external microphone.
Don't worry if you're limited in the tech you have - I'll support you with additional resources and via email.
2 | Resources and supporting materials
As well as working through video, I'll be providing all my students with a range of online tools, including:
Web resources for music theory.
Custom backing tracks.
Advice on useful apps for practicing and learning.
Visual aids, such as diagrams and charts.
These will be useful even if your video connection is poor, so don't worry!
3 | Opportunities
Although getting used to online learning will pose some challenges, there are also many opportunities to be excited about, including:
You may have more time to practice/play than usual. Try spacing several shorter sessions through the day.
Time with your instrument is a valuable escape from screens.
There are lots of music organisations sharing more resources online at the moment, and you may be able to take advantage of opportunities that you might otherwise have been unable to participate in.
This is a really good time to work on areas of your musicianship that are harder to find time for in the usual run of things, such as theory and aural skills.
4 | Think about the future
The time will come when schools reopen and in-person musical activities resume, and there's going to be a lot of chances to get involved in all the events that will take place at that time. You'll want to feel good about your playing to make the most of those opportunities!
5 | Get in touch
I can offer lessons in:
Brass instruments, including trumpet, trombone and french horn.
Composition and arranging.
Music theory, at all levels including university harmony and counterpoint.
Jazz improvisation, for most instruments, and for absolute beginners and experienced musicians.
I'd be very happy to hear from you, so do get in touch!
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