How to Switch to Online Music Lessons Fast: 4 Steps for Weather Emergencies
How to Switch to Online Music Lessons in a Pinch
This week with the SNOWpocalypse, I had to switch to online lessons. I’ve got a massive hill in front of my house and students coming here, or me leaving to drive to my lessons wasn’t an option. Bad weather doesn’t have to derail your teaching schedule—or your income. One of the biggest gifts you can give yourself as a studio owner is a simple, reliable plan for moving lessons online at a moment’s notice. When snow, ice, or unexpected emergencies pop up, having a system in place keeps your studio running smoothly and your students progressing without interruption.
Below is a streamlined, teacher‑friendly guide you can implement today so you’re never scrambling again.
Step 1: Choose Your Online Platform Before You Need It
Don’t wait until the storm hits to decide how you’ll connect.
Pick one primary platform and one backup option:
Primary: FaceTime (my preferred), Zoom, or Google Meet
Backup: A second app your students already have access to
Make sure:
Your device is updated and charged
Your camera and microphone work
You know how to share your screen or audio if needed
🎶 Tip: Add your meeting link to your studio policies or welcome packet so families always know where to go.
Step 2: Create a Quick-Send Communication Template
When weather changes fast, you don’t want to spend 30 minutes crafting a message.
Prepare a short script you can copy, paste, and send to all families. Something like:
“Due to weather conditions, all lessons today will be held online at your regular time. We’ll meet on FaceTime/Zoom. If you lose power or internet, please let me know as soon as possible.”
Save this in your notes app, email drafts, or studio management software so it’s always ready.
Step 3: Keep an Online-Friendly Lesson Plan on Standby
Online lessons run best when you have a structure that works specifically for the virtual format. It’s best to have a copy of all the method books your students use on hand for this reason (or if a student ever forgets their music, you can continue as planned) Just know, you won’t be able to get through the lesson at the same speed as normal as internet connection issues happen, or there’s a delay on the line. Teaching online has always been just a little bit slower in progress. But it can be done. But you can also have the following to help make the lesson more fun and run smoothly.
Have a small collection of “online-ready” activities you can pull out instantly:
Digital flashcards
Rhythm echo games
Play-along tracks
Sight-reading apps
Short technique challenges
A few printable worksheets you can email if needed
This ensures your lesson stays engaging—even if the switch was last-minute.
Step 4: Prepare for Power or Internet Issues
Weather can be unpredictable, so build flexibility into your plan.
Have a policy in place for:
What happens if you lose power
What happens if they lose power
Whether lessons are rescheduled, refunded, or skipped
How students should notify you if they can’t connect
You can also keep a portable charger nearby so your phone stays powered for FaceTime lessons or communication.
Final Thoughts
A smooth transition to online lessons isn’t about perfection—it’s about preparation. With a clear plan, a ready-to-send message, and a few online-friendly activities in your back pocket, you can turn a stressful weather day into a seamless teaching day.
Happy Teaching!
Becky