What’s the Better Way to Learn Music? Online or In-Person? — You're Missing the Point

We debate about Online Versus In-Person music learning.

Are we missing the point?

Choosing the right way to learn music can feel overwhelming, especially if you live far from a music training center. Many people assume that face-to-face, in-person lessons are the “gold standard,” but is this really the case? The truth is, while in-person lessons are valuable, the quality of the teacher is far more important than the delivery method. A great teacher online will always provide better learning outcomes than a mediocre one in person.

At Rising Tones Institute of Music, we’ve created an environment where students—regardless of location—can access high-quality music education. Whether it’s guitar, singing, piano, or drums, our expert teachers ensure that your learning journey is smooth, inspiring, and tailored to your needs.

So, what’s the better way—online or in-person? Let’s explore both options, weigh the pros and cons, and challenge the mindset that face-to-face lessons are always superior.

The Real Question: Teacher Quality vs. Lesson Format

Before diving into the pros and cons of online vs. in-person lessons, let’s address a critical mindset shift. Many people disproportionately prioritize how lessons are delivered (face-to-face or online) while overlooking the single most important factor: the teacher’s quality.

Why Teacher Quality Matters Most:

• A good teacher inspires, motivates, and adapts lessons to your unique pace and style.
• They focus on technique, progress, and making learning enjoyable—whether it’s online or in person.
• With a strong teacher-student connection, even online lessons feel personalized and impactful.

Think of it this way: Would you rather learn from an exceptional online teacher or a mediocre in-person teacher? The answer is clear—the quality of the teacher always comes first.

At Rising Tones, we ensure that every student, whether local or far away, has access to:

• Highly skilled teachers who are friendly, patient, and professional.
• Teachers with years of experience in their craft and education.
• Safety-focused educators, all holding a Working with Children Check.

Pros and Cons of Online Music Lessons

Advantages of Online Lessons

1. Accessibility and Convenience: No matter where you live, you can learn with the best teachers from the comfort of your home.
2. No Travel Costs or Time: Save valuable time and money by skipping the commute.
3. Flexible Scheduling: Online lessons make it easier to fit music into busy lifestyles, whether you’re a parent or adult learner.
4. Comfortable Learning Environment: Learning from home creates a relaxed, familiar setting, especially for kids or beginners.
5. Technology Enhancements: Online tools allow teachers to share digital resources, recordings, and immediate feedback for practice between lessons.

Challenges of Online Lessons (and How We Overcome Them)

1. Technology Setup: Some students worry about equipment like microphones or cameras.

   • Solution: At Rising Tones, we guide students on selecting simple, affordable tools to enhance their learning experience. Most students already have everything they need to get started!

2. Lack of Physical Presence: Concerns about not having hands-on corrections.

   • Solution: Our teachers are trained to provide precise verbal feedback and visual demonstrations to overcome this limitation.

3. Internet Reliability: Poor connections can disrupt lessons.

   • Solution: Simple setups like strong Wi-Fi or Ethernet cables solve most issues, and we provide tips to optimize your setup.

Pros and Cons of In-Person Music Lessons

Advantages of In-Person Lessons

1. Hands-On Guidance: Teachers can physically correct posture, hand positions, and technique in real-time.
2. Immediate Feedback: The face-to-face interaction feels natural and engaging for some learners.
3. Immersive Experience: Being in the same room as your teacher can create a focused, energetic learning environment.

Challenges of In-Person Lessons

1. Travel Costs and Time: The time and expenses of traveling to lessons can add up quickly.
2. Limited Teacher Options: If you live far from a quality music school like Rising Tones, you may end up settling for a teacher who isn’t the best fit.
3. Scheduling Conflicts: Busy parents or students with tight schedules might find it hard to commit to regular in-person lessons.

Case Study: Meet Liam – From Struggle to Success

Liam (name changed for privacy), a 12-year-old student, lived in a rural area 3 hours away from Melbourne. His parents wanted him to learn guitar but struggled to find a good teacher nearby. At first, they were skeptical about online lessons, assuming they wouldn’t be as effective as face-to-face sessions.

They decided to give Rising Tones’ online lessons a try. With one of our expert guitar teachers, Liam experienced:

• Personalized guidance to suit his skill level.
• Regular feedback through high-quality video calls.
• Confidence-boosting tips and encouragement to make learning fun.

After 6 months of lessons, Liam performed his first song confidently for family and friends—something his parents thought was out of reach. His mother now says, “Online lessons at Rising Tones proved that great teachers matter most, no matter where you live.”

Obstacles to Finding Quality Teachers – And How Rising Tones Solves Them

We understand the challenges families face when searching for the right music teacher:

• Quality vs. Proximity: A great teacher might not live nearby.
• Limited Options: Smaller communities often lack experienced instructors.
• Scheduling and Accessibility: Travel and timing can make lessons hard to manage.

Our Solutions:

1. Top-Quality Teachers: Rising Tones offers a team of highly skilled, caring, and safety-checked teachers.
2. Flexible Online Lessons: Learn from anywhere, saving time and money.
3. Expert Setup Advice: We guide you on the simple tools needed for an exceptional online learning experience.
4. Supportive Environment: Our teachers ensure every student feels connected, inspired, and motivated to succeed.

Making the Right Choice: Online or In-Person?

The choice between online and in-person lessons depends on your needs. But always remember: the quality of the teacher is what matters most.

At Rising Tones, we’re proud to offer:

• Expert teachers, both online and in-person.
• A supportive learning environment, no matter where you are.
• Flexible options to ensure music fits into your life.

Conclusion: Music is for Everyone, Everywhere and Everywhen

Whether you live in Melbourne or miles away, music education should never be out of reach. Online or in-person, Rising Tones provides the highest quality instruction to help you or your child thrive.

Don’t let location hold you back—choose a learning path that works for you, knowing that our expert teachers will always guide you towards success.

🎸 Ready to Begin Your Journey? Discover the joy of music with Rising Tones.

👉 Book Intro Lesson

At Rising Tones, our vision is to transform lives through music—local or global—one lesson at a time. It’s never too late to start, and with the right teacher, the possibilities are endless.

 About the auhor -

Jeet Samant, Composer and Music Mentor

With a rich journey in music since 2005, Jeet Samant stands out as a seasoned music mentor and composer. He has guided hundreds of students, nurturing their musical talents and helping them find their unique voice in the world of music. As a skilled songwriter and melody writer, Jeet has a flair for crafting songs that resonate deeply with audiences. His expertise extends to music production, where his innovative techniques and keen ear for detail have produced captivating musical pieces. Jeet’s passion for music is not just about creating melodies; it's about inspiring and empowering a new generation of musicians.