We have put together some best practices for virtual students at Mike Risko Music. You can refer to these if you are a regular virtual student or if you take an occasional virtual lesson. Many of the same principals apply to both in-person and virtual students so please familiarize yourself with both. Additionally, all students should read our cancellation policy which applies to everyone. In the event of a snow day, virtual students would still remain virtual. Information for in-person students can be found here.
Logging in for Your Lessons: Make sure you have your log-in ready and log in at the exact time of the lesson. When virtual students register, they are issued a code. If you are taking a one time virtual lesson, you will also be sent a code. If you have a recurring code, keep it in a safe place and refer to it each week. Do not share your code with anyone. Do not log into your lesson early because there is likely another student in the virtual lesson room. Also, if you log in early, you may keep another student from logging in. When you log on, always log on with your mic muted and your camera off. Be sure you know how to control the mic and the camera when the lesson starts. If you are a regular virtual student and you are taking a virtual makeup, be sure to look for your makeup code which will be different from your usual code.
Books, Instruments and Materials for Virtual Lessons: Have all your books, a pencil, a notebook and your instrument ready. Make sure instruments are plugged in, tuned and out of the case. Also make sure you have good lighting in your lesson area. If you need new books, come by our music store during showroom hours to purchase them.
Setting Up Your Device: Set up your device prior to your lesson. Be sure to have your device at a good angle that enables your teacher to see both you and the instrument. Your teacher also needs to be able to see you playing the instrument so they can be sure you are holding the instrument properly. Set up in an area with little distractions. Having a wall behind you is best. Pictures and video of the virtual lessons are not allowed. Parents should make sure their student does not have a phone or other electronic device distracting them during the lesson.
Parent Role in Virtual Lessons: Parents are always welcome to watch lessons, but it is important to let the teacher do the instructing. Parents can be helpful by making sure that the above steps are taken. Additionally, it is sometimes helpful to have parents assist in making sure the child is holding the instrument properly or that their hands are positioned correctly. Parents do not have to sit in on the lesson but should try to be in the vicinty if the teacher needs to speak to you.
Assignments: Check in at the end of the lesson to write the assignment down unless the child is old enough to do that by themself.
Leaving the Virtual Lesson: Always leave the virtual lesson when the lesson is over. You leave the lesson by pressing the red "leave" button. This is extremely important. When students don't leave the lesson, the next student cannot get into their lesson.
Rescheduling When You Are Virtual: If you need to reschedule anything, always call our office at 914-762-8757 or you can send an email. If there are any scheduling issues, please contact us right away. The teachers do not do any scheduling so if you need to move something, please let the office know.
Staying Informed and Connected When You Are Virtual: Look for emails from Mike Risko Music with information about upcoming opportunities for students like student showcases and more. Get involved and you will find that you and your child will make lots of progress. We invite all our virtual students to participate in as many in-person (and virtual activities) as they can. Check in with the office regulary. We love to hear from the students and we want to know how you are doing. Stop by the music store anytime for stickers and prizes.
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