First Lesson Checklist

Use this checklist to ensure you have everything needed prior to your first lesson.

Tasks

  • Sign lesson contract

  • Set up MyMusicStaff profile and payment method

  • Download Zoom- make sure it’s up to date with the latest version

  • Set up and test audio and video

  • Enable the “original sound” or “sound for musicians” setting in Zoom

  • Set up & organize your lesson space (see more on this below)

  • Order any required supplies and materials

  • Download desired mobile apps

  • Print or have accessible any sheet music sent by instructor

  • Ensure the device you will be using for lessons is charged

*Please note: If you’d like to test your sound settings with me prior to your first lesson, you may do so by booking a consultation. The need for earbuds and a microphone varies greatly and is dependent on the devices being used.

Supplies

  • Rosin

  • Rock Stop (if needed)

  • Cleaning Cloth

  • Music Stand

  • Tuner or Tuning App

  • Metronome or
    Metronome App

  • Lesson Books

  • Pencil

  • Notebook

Optional Extras

  • Cello Stand

  • Cello Stool

  • Pinstriping Tape

  • Peg Compound

  • Spare Strings

  • Stand Light

  • Music Clip

  • Highlighter tape

  • Music binder

Technology

  • Phone or Tablet Stand
    (if needed)

  • Bluetooth Earbuds

  • Condenser Microphone
    (preferred but not required)

  • Audio interface (if using JamKazam for real-time lessons)

A Note on Fingernails

When you commit to learning a string instrument, you are also making the choice to give up having fake or long nails. It is important to keep your left hand fingernails short in order to be able to contact the fingerboard with correct technique. Otherwise, you will be unable to produce a clear tone and the sounds you hear may be more reminiscent of fingernails on a chalkboard. 🙃

One easy way to check if your nails are short enough is to observe your hands with your palms facing you. If your nails do not stick up above your fingertips, they are an appropriate length and will not interfere with your music making. You do not need to give up having nice nails; there are plenty of musicians who still enjoy getting their nails painted!

Setting up your Lesson Space

You need a large enough space so that when you sit with both arms extended straight out to your sides, you don’t touch or bump into anything. This guarantees we have enough room to move our bow freely.

Your space should have good lighting- whether this means natural lighting, overhead lighting, or the use of a lamp or clip-on stand light, you want to make sure you can read your music with ease.

A cello stand is a worthwhile investment as it keeps your instrument unpacked but out of the way from children or pets. It also makes your instrument easily accessible for practice sessions. You may find it more motivating to practice when you aren’t required to go through the unpacking and re-packing process each time.

Your space should be quiet and free from distractions in order for you to get the most from your lessons and practice sessions.

If your lessons are online, it’s better to have light coming from behind your camera instead of from behind you (an open window in the background, for example). This helps make sure your instructor can see you clearly through the video.

Camera setup for online lessons: whether you’re using a mobile device, tablet, or computer, the more of you your instructor can see, the more feedback they’ll be able to give. Try to position yourself far enough away from your camera that both your bow hand and left hand are visible at all times.

For the best audio, use headphones to avoid any echo or feedback and consider purchasing an external microphone that will pick up sound from your instrument clearly. A wired internet connection is preferred for stability, but if you’re using wifi you’ll want to limit the number of other devices using your connection during the time of your lesson to avoid lag spikes or connection issues.