🎹 7 Tech Tools That Make My Online Piano Studio Creative, Connected, and (Mostly) Chaos-Free
Online lessons get a bad rap — especially for younger students. But here’s the truth: with the right tech tools, online teaching can be more connected, creative, and effective than ever.
In this post, I’m sharing the exact tools I use to keep my students learning, laughing, and progressing week after week — from rhythm videos to game-based learning, and even a 24/7 piano classroom!
1. Marco Polo – My Go-To for Asynchronous Lessons
I’ve tried lots of ways to do video-based feedback, but Marco Polo wins every time. It’s easy to use, doesn’t require downloading videos, and lets me:
Respond on my own schedule
Keep all lesson communication organized by student
Build a more personal connection — students love seeing my face and reactions!
I do use chat and video tools in the Better Practice App (more on that below), but Marco Polo remains my daily driver.
2. Google Meet – The Unsung Hero of Group Lessons
Why not Zoom? Because the sound issues were too unpredictable — especially for younger students. I needed something simple and stable, and Google Meet delivered.
Here’s why I love it:
Reliable audio without constant tech support
Breakout rooms for group activities
Easy camera switching (I use one cam over my piano, one on my face)
One reusable link all year long — no confusion, no new invites
It just works — and that makes everything smoother.
3. Genially Games – My Secret Weapon for Learning & Laughter
I create almost all of my digital music games in Genially, and they are a game-changer (pun intended). Whether it’s note reading, rhythm, terms, or theory, I can:
Share my screen and play as a class
Let students open it on their own screen for a timed solo challenge
Keep things dynamic with mystery puzzles, mazes, and collaborative adventures
One game has students exploring a house, dodging monsters, and shouting warnings to each other through the screen. Yes — it's that fun.
4. YouTube for Rhythm Play-Alongs and Digital Tools
YouTube is my unofficial classroom assistant. I use it to:
Play rhythm clap-alongs that keep group energy high
Use timer videos for individual game or practice challenges
Show fun and motivating videos from rhythm imposters to virtuosic piano performances.
The right video at the right time = focus reset achieved.
5. Digital Whiteboards – For On-the-Fly Theory Teaching
Sometimes a student needs a quick explanation. I use a digital whiteboard (like Microsoft Whiteboard or Canva Whiteboard) to draw notes, write rhythms, or map out theory concepts right in the middle of a lesson.
It's visual, it's interactive, and it sticks better than just talking.
6. Better Practice App – Organized Assignments + Practice Tracking
I adore this app. Not only can I track what each student is working on, I can:
Assign entire books and pass off songs with one click
Create custom books and group assignments
Chat in small groups
Let students see their progress and practice streaks
It’s like having a digital binder, practice journal, and cheerleader all in one.
www.BetterPracticeApp.com
7. My Music Staff – For Scheduling & Parent Communication
I use My Music Staff to organize my calendar, send lesson reminders, and communicate with parents. It handles invoices, attendance, and email blasts — so I can spend less time chasing admin tasks and more time teaching.
Final Thoughts: Tech Is a Tool — Not a Replacement
I still use my voice, my stories, my instincts, and my creativity in every lesson. But these tools help me do all of that more efficiently — and with more joy.
If you're teaching online (or hybrid), don’t be afraid to try new tech. The right tools don’t replace you — they amplify you.
