COVID-19 and How We Stayed Musical

When the pandemic hit, everyone wondered if music lessons would stop. At Chennai School of Music & Arts we quickly moved to online classes so students could keep playing from home. Our teachers set up video calls, shared sheet music, and gave real‑time feedback just like in a studio. It felt new at first, but the kids loved seeing their instructors on screen and staying connected to the music community.

Switching to Virtual Lessons

We chose platforms that were easy to use and didn’t need fancy equipment. A simple laptop, a webcam, and a stable internet connection were enough. Teachers created short practice videos, posted them on our portal, and held live sessions twice a week. This routine helped students keep a regular schedule, which is important for progress. Parents also got involved, learning basic chords to help their kids during practice.

Keeping Safety In Mind When We Returned

When restrictions eased, we opened our studios with strict safety rules. Hand sanitiser stations, spaced‑out benches, and mandatory masks were the norm. Classes were limited to small groups so everyone had enough room. We also kept the option for online lessons, so families could choose what worked best. The mix of in‑person and virtual teaching gave us flexibility and kept the music flowing.

Besides regular lessons, we offered special workshops on coping with stress through music. These sessions taught breathing exercises, rhythmic drumming, and improvisation to help students express emotions during uncertain times. Many parents reported that their kids felt calmer and more focused after the workshops.

Looking ahead, we plan to keep the best of both worlds. The digital tools we built during COVID‑19 will stay part of our curriculum, giving students the freedom to learn from anywhere. Whether you’re a beginner picking up a guitar or an advanced singer preparing for a recital, our school is ready to support you—online or in‑person.

Crispin Hawthorne 21 May 2025 0

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