When comparing online piano lessons, look for what makes that program different from another. It may look like all methods are the same, especially when you don’t know what you are looking for.
The following information is going to be very valuable to your success in choosing a robust learning program. Stay with me because l am going to tell you why, content is not the number one thing you will be looking for.
Before you can even start to comparison shop, you need to decide which approach to learning piano you want to take. The top three ways to learn piano are: reading music, playing by ear or playing by chords.
First choose the way you want to learn. If you don’t know which way is best for you, look for my other question in this series called: How do I choose a piano program that meets my needs? You can find that question at learnpianoonline.com on the 20 Top questions link.
For now, let’s just say you already chose the way you want to learn. Now choose 2 or 3 programs of the same approach that you would like to compare.
There are 5 things you need to consider when doing your comparison…this is where it is going to very clear how different they are from each other.
- Fast Support such as Direct email to a teacher, joining a group, submitting videos.
- Usage Opportunities (Sharing your performances through video, or live feeds.)
- Progress Evaluation (Being able to submit a video and get feedback from teacher and/or peers)
- Motivation Activities (Participating in challenges, contests, receiving new songs, passing tests, earning awards.)
- Content – matches the type of lessons you choose… if you choose note reading, then look for evidence that you will be learning how to read sheet music, etc.
Did you notice I mentioned content last on the list?
I am going to tell you a secret that will help you choose the program that will best serve you as a beginner student. The 4 that I mention first are far more valuable to a new learner than a ton of content. You’re first question when comparing lessons should not be “WHAT will I learn”, it should be “HOW will I learn”. Without the “how will I learn” items, the “what will I learn” items will not mean anything. Again, anyone, can put together a piano lesson package, make it pretty and make a long list of things you will learn, but I want to warn you that pretty packages and contents are NOT king when learning piano.
Once you are satisfied with the first 4 comparison items, then look at the content items. You are either going to be excited because you know you will have a good support system or, you will feel overwhelmed because the program will lack the support you need to learn so much content.
Pricing will be a irrelevant after you do all these steps. No matter what you choose, whether it be $30 or $300 , becoming a pianist at these prices is an incredible steal compared to paying a private teacher. (Even if you make a mistake and have to return one course and purchase another course, you are still saving no matter what you choose online.. the real trick is.. choosing the one you will be happy with.)
Hope this helps you systemize the way you shop for the piano lesson program that will be the best fit for your learning goals.