Here's how you can adjust your vocal coaching methods for virtual collaboration.

1 Embrace Technology

To make the most of virtual vocal coaching, embracing technology is non-negotiable. You'll need to familiarize yourself with various video conferencing platforms and understand their features, such as screen sharing for displaying sheet music or using a digital piano app for warm-ups . Invest in a good microphone and headphones to ensure clear audio quality, and encourage your students to do the same. This will minimize distractions and make the session more productive.

2 Set Clear Goals

Clarity is key when setting goals for virtual vocal sessions. Without the physical presence to gauge reactions and progress, it's important to establish what you and your student aim to achieve in each session. This might include specific technical improvements, learning new repertoire, or preparing for a performance. Clear goals help keep the session focused and provide a roadmap for success, giving your student a sense of accomplishment and direction.

3 Visual Feedback

In a virtual setting, providing visual feedback becomes more important than ever. Utilize the camera to demonstrate techniques and ask your students to position themselves so you can observe their posture and breathing. If possible, use software that allows for real-time annotation or drawing on the screen to highlight areas for improvement directly on the video feed. This can help bridge the gap created by the lack of physical presence.

4 Engage Interaction

To keep your student engaged during virtual sessions, interaction is crucial. Ask questions that require more than a yes or no answer to encourage your student to think critically about their technique and performance. Use metaphors and descriptive language to communicate concepts, which can be more effective than technical jargon. This interactive approach helps maintain a connection and ensures that your student remains an active participant in their learning process.

5 Adapt Exercises

Adapting vocal exercises for the online format is essential. Since you can't play the piano or sing alongside your student in real time due to potential latency issues, provide pre-recorded accompaniments or use apps that allow them to control playback. Encourage students to use these tools during practice to maintain the feel of a live session. This helps them stay in tune with the musicality and timing of pieces even when you're not physically there to guide them.

6 Monitor Progress

Finally, monitoring progress can be more challenging remotely, but it's crucial for ensuring that your students continue to develop their skills. Use recordings of each session to track improvements and areas that need more work. Encourage students to self-record as well, so they can self-assess and stay motivated between sessions. Regular check-ins on progress help maintain momentum and keep both you and your student accountable.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?