The pandemic forced us all to adapt, and music lessons were no exception. With schools and studios closed, online learning became the only option for many. While in-person lessons are still the traditional choice, online music lessons have proven they can be an effective alternative — and sometimes even an advantage.
So, which is better: online or in-person music lessons? Let’s explore the pros and cons of both to help you decide what’s best for you or your child.
Not all online lessons are created equal. A student’s experience can depend on:
High-speed internet access
Reliable instrument access at home
A quiet, distraction-free space
Comfort with lesson software such as Zoom
With the right setup, online lessons can run smoothly and be just as effective as face-to-face lessons.
Teachers can physically adjust posture, hand, or finger placement
Access to school or teacher instruments and resources
Stronger personal connection with teachers and classmates
A dedicated learning environment free from home distractions
No audio lag, making duets and accompaniment possible
Teachers can directly mark up student sheet music
Health and safety considerations (COVID, flu season, etc.)
Transport to and from the lesson site
Carrying instruments, especially large ones
Limited teacher availability in smaller areas
Technical issues like poor wifi, lag, or buffering
Sound quality limitations without professional audio equipment
Harder for teachers to observe fine technical details
Students and teachers cannot play in sync due to latency
Household distractions such as siblings or background noise
Risk of screen fatigue if lessons aren’t engaging
Learn from anywhere, no commute required
Comfortable learning environment at home
Lessons continue even during illness, travel, or bad weather
Flexible alternative for make-up lessons
Instant access to online resources and materials
Ability to learn with specialist teachers outside your area
More choice of teachers for less common instruments
There are several options when learning music online:
Free videos (e.g. YouTube): Great for quick tips, but not always reliable. Anyone can post content, so quality varies.
Apps and self-paced courses: Tools like Yousician or Masterclass are fun and affordable, but they lack personalised feedback.
Private live video lessons: The best option for serious learning. A qualified teacher provides real-time feedback, sets goals, and adapts lessons to your progress.
Many parents and students wonder if online lessons are worth the same cost as in-person lessons. In most cases, yes.
Online teaching often requires:
Extra preparation of digital resources (sheet music, exercises, recordings)
Investment in high-speed internet and video platforms
Pre-recorded accompaniments when needed
The teacher’s expertise, time, and planning remain the same — and sometimes even more work goes into making online lessons effective.
Some students thrive online, enjoying the flexibility and comfort of home. Others prefer the structure and connection of face-to-face lessons.
Before making a decision:
Consider your learning style, goals, and setup at home
Be open to a hybrid model — using both in-person and online lessons when it suits
Ultimately, the best choice is the one that keeps you motivated, engaged, and progressing in your musical journey.