Learning a new skill (or dusting off an old one) requires some level of commitment. You get out of it what you put into it. From my experience working with people, I’ve seen that those who succeed most in lessons and their craft are those who give music some priority (doesn’t need to be top of the list, and we can discuss what kind of practice routine works best with your life), and approach it with an open mind and willingness to learn and try new things.

Whether your goal is to get better at sight reading, learn some of your favourite music, or learning/having accountability to play for enjoyment, having that extra support with music lessons can help in reaching that goal.

Of course!

I have worked with learners from fresh beginners just starting out to advanced players in my online studio. I have seen learners who have never touched the instrument before grow to love making music on their instrument and flourish as skilled players playing their favourite music, as well as intermediate and advanced learners meet their goals and succeed in their craft.

Learning an instrument is a combination of learning styles like visual, auditory, and kinaesthetic, from my experience - all of which translates itself to online learning environment just as well as in-person.

Online music lessons have provided much more accessibility to those who either don’t have a teacher local to their area, or have found the right teacher for them, but don’t reside in the same area.

Learning a new instrument through online lessons can be just as effective as in-person, and learning and progression is not inhibited by an online environment. Improvement on an instrument, new or not, can heavily depend on the practice the student is able to put in outside of lesson time.

You’ll need a few things:

• a flute in good working condition, regular maintenance must be done (I can offer guidance on rentals, purchases, repair centres - just ask!)

• cleaning rod and cloths for inside and outside of the instrument (please ask for guidance if needed)

• pencil

• music stand for practicing at home - preferably something sturdy (I don’t recommend wire stands - but if you have one, use it!)

• metronome

• tuner

• Any recommended music, books, and materials - this will become clear as we start lessons and set some goals

• Quiet, distraction-free practice environment

• a positive and open to learn attitude!

Equipment for online lessons and drop-ins:

• A computer/laptop (preferably) or tablet with a built in microphone and speakers. If you have an external microphone, feel free to use it.

• Access to a free Zoom account.

• A stable internet connection

• Headphones are recommended, but not required. In some instances I may request headphones be used, so if you have some, have them nearby.

• Please note: Instructions will be provided to adjust Zoom audio settings to what we use in lessons before the first lesson, and we can go through them as well - don’t worry!

That depends entirely on your goals, schedule, and what you’re looking to get out of music lessons.

Of course we know that to learn a new skill or maintain a learned one we have to do some consistent practice to reinforce the skill, but sometimes it’s hard to find the time or energy. When we work together, we’ll figure out what works for you with your life.

Practicing doesn’t need to be time-consuming and draining either - the methods I use and teach/encourage are more along the lines of work smart, not work hard.

I foster a judgement and shame free environment, and that’s no different when it comes to practicing.

That’s okay too. I’ve had students on this path as well - not practice, but come to music lessons for the enjoyment of playing. If that’s your thing, then we can do that.