SPACE

Choose a room without background noise or distractions — including pets. Privacy is best for singing, and a quiet environment helps the microphone pick up your voice clearly.

ROOM SETUP

• Clear at least a 3-foot circle around you so you can stand as in the studio.

• Place your camera so it shows torso and head (not just your face).

• ​Laptop Riser This helps to not look down during online lessons.

• Clip on light for laptop  This really helps the lighting, and helps me see the face clearer.

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TECH SETUP
I will be providing recommendations with links below. 

1. Modern laptop or desktop with a large screen.

2. Wired internet connection (turn Wi-Fi off).

3. High-speed internet service.

4. External condenser microphone (see recommendations below).

5. Good quality USB webcam or external camera.

   • You can also use a smartphone as a second angle (e.g., to show keyboard).

   • A tripod/phone stand helps keep it steady.

6. Good lighting: avoid overhead shadows; use a desk lamp, ring light, or natural light from a window.

7. Cell phone or tablet to stream music (Appcompanist or YouTube) → via Bluetooth speaker.

8. Bluetooth speaker (phone speakers are too weak to carry through the mic).

MUSIC

• Printed sheet music and a pencil for marking. (If you need recommendations for printers, hole punch, glue, and binders, check out the Holiday Guide. I wouldn't list it here if it hadn't been asked of me.) 

• Adjustable Music Stand  You will want one sooner than later. 

• Bluetooth Speaker (Any bluetooth speaker will do. Here is our preferred brand.) 
   

CRUCIAL FOR SPEED WITHOUT LAG

You must have a fast internet connection. I suggest you get an ethernet cable that can go from your router to your laptop. Wifi will create lag. 

Ethernet Cable 

Ethernet adapter USB or USC so you can plug the ethernet cable from your router directly into computer​
 

ZOOM FOR MUSIC STUDIOS

For now we are using google meet as it has proven to be the most reliable. ​

​MICROPHONE SET UP OPTIONS
Not sure which mic to get? Here is a guide.
 

Option 1: Minimal Tech (Plug & Play USB)

Best for: students who want to plug in and sing — no extra gear.

Recommended USB Mics (work directly with PC/Mac):

● Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB – ~$80–100

USB-C/USB-A, dynamic mic, headphone jack built-in.

● Blue Yeti / AKG Lyra / RØDE NT-USB – $100–200

Reliable USB condensers, desk-stand friendly.

● RØDE VideoMic NTG – ~$250

Class-compliant USB mic, limiter + headphone out.

 

What you need: Just the mic + USB cable (included).

 

Option 2: Tech Enthusiast (XLR + Interface)

Best for: students who don’t mind plugging in a few cables for higher-end sound.

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Mic Options (XLR, need interface):

● Shure SM58 – ~$100 (dynamic, stage classic).

● Audio-Technica AT2035 – ~$150 (studio condenser).

● Lewitt LCT 240 Pro – ~$180 (modern condenser).

 

Required Extras:

● Audio Interface: Focusrite Scarlett Solo ($130) or 2i2 ($180), Rode AI-1 ($129).

● Cables:

○ XLR mic cable (~$15–25)

○ USB cable (comes with the interface).

● Mic Stand / Boom Arm (~$20–40).

 

What you need: Mic + interface + XLR cable + stand + pop filter.

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Quick Student Guide

• Option 1: “I just want to sing.” → USB mic.

• Option 2: “I like gear.” → XLR mic + interface.