Doug Armitage, Nederland. As the restrictions and realities of Corona time unfold, we all share the disappointments over the cancellations or postponements of festivals, concerts, student ensembles, local bands, socializing with music performances and so many other music-loving gatherings. The power of music is amplified through the events we share – be it as performers, learners or audience members.

Teaching and learning music can continue and even thrive through the remarkable tools, resources and people who are engaging in music teaching online, and with safe measures, directly. The challenges to a teacher are daunting and the learning experience is very different, but so is the rest of life. We adapt and move forward.

Some of our local teachers are using Zoom classes to continue the instruction, and there is one thing we need to do for the students and teachers: Learn to tune your instrument with a tuner and have it in tune and ready to go when your lesson begins. This is crucial so that the student is not spending precious time tuning. Have this done before you start the lesson.

Next, you need to create an environment where you can focus on your music. Set up a location that is free of distractions and also has a positive energy. School can sometimes feel stifling. You know how you learn best. Be responsible, but this is your opportunity to create what works best for you. Being creative here will make your musicianship better forever! Have a good chair and look at your posture. Are you comfortable? If you are not, change something! Get set up where you can always put your fingers where they need to be. Once you do this it will be automatic.

It is very easy to be distracted by new emails, discussions on projects, texts, social media, etc. When you start to practice, concentrate on the instrument. How do I get a better tone? If you put away the phone, turn off notifications, and close any distracting windows on your computer and allow yourself to focus on just that for an allotted time frame you will learn more in a shorter time. Use the time in between tasks to check in on email, assignments, and other communications. Tell those in your house when you are about to start and ask that they respect your time and work and (please) not interrupt.

Your schedule should be centered around how you can be the most focused and productive. Some people work best first thing in the morning, others right after lunch. Know your best times and put your most challenging assignment then. Create a routine that includes blocks of time where you can focus on your instrument, then allow yourself time to take breaks. This is a gift that we are often not given in formalized school.

Remember that teachers and students are moving through this C- time experimenting and learning from each other. Together, we’ll find the best way to do this. In the end, we will be better at what we do. For now, tell your teachers what is working for you, and listen to what they say about how to make the best of your time together.

First and foremost, your emotional health and well-being is important. Reach out to your parents, teachers and friends for support throughout the process and don’t be afraid to speak to someone about stress and anxiety. Music should be an adventure, and relaxing. The only hard part is making it look easy.

Thanks to John Mlynczak, Managing Director of Noteflight, a Hal Leonard company, and Dr. Scott Edga. For additional information, visit:www.candomusic.org.

Doug Armitage is a music teacher and the owner of Brightwood Music in Nederland. For more information about local lessons, or other music questions, call 303-258-8863.