9 Best Platforms for Offering Online Music Lessons: Turn Your Passion into a Side Gig

Looking to share your musical talents with students online? Teaching music lessons virtually has become a popular side gig for many talented musicians.

It’s a great way to earn extra income while doing something you love.

There are many platforms available for offering online music lessons.

These websites connect teachers with students and provide tools to make virtual teaching easy. You can start your own online music teaching business using these platforms, setting your own rates and schedule. Let’s look at some of the best options out there for aspiring online music teachers.

1) Skype

Skype is a popular choice for online music teachers starting their side hustle.

It’s free and easy to use, which makes it great for beginners.

You might already have Skype on your devices.

This means you can start teaching right away without downloading new software.

Many private music teachers use Skype for their lessons.

It’s simple to set up video calls with your students.

Skype lets you share your screen during lessons.

This is handy for showing sheet music or demonstrating techniques.

The audio quality on Skype is decent for most instruments.

But it might not be the best for very detailed sound work.

You can record your Skype lessons if you want.

This helps students review the material later.

One cool feature is the ability to blur your background.

This keeps your teaching space looking neat and professional.

Skype works on computers, tablets, and phones.

This gives you and your students flexibility in where you teach and learn.

Remember that Skype doesn’t have special music-focused features.

You might need to adjust your teaching style a bit.

Overall, Skype is a solid platform to start your online music teaching business.

It’s familiar, free, and functional for most basic lesson needs.

2) Zoom

Zoom has become a go-to platform for online music lessons.

It’s easy to use and most people are already familiar with it.

You can start teaching music on Zoom with just a few clicks.

It’s great for beginners who want to try out online teaching as a side gig.

Zoom offers features that make music lessons smoother.

You can share your screen to show sheet music or videos.

The chat function lets you send quick notes or links during the lesson.

One cool thing about Zoom is its breakout rooms.

You can use these for group lessons or ensemble practice.

It’s like having separate practice rooms online.

Audio quality is key for music lessons.

Zoom has an option called “Original Sound” that helps preserve audio quality.

This is super important when you’re teaching instruments or voice.

You can record lessons on Zoom too.

This is handy for students who want to review later.

It’s also great for you to track progress or create content for your teaching business.

Zoom works on computers, tablets, and phones.

This means your students can join lessons from anywhere.

It’s perfect if you’re targeting busy adults or students who travel a lot.

Remember to check your internet connection before lessons.

A stable connection is crucial for clear audio and video.

This helps you give the best possible lessons to your students.

3) Google Meet

Google Meet is a handy tool for teaching online music lessons.

It’s free and easy to use, making it a great choice for music teachers starting their side hustle.

You don’t need to download any special software to use Google Meet.

This makes it simple for both you and your students to get started with lessons right away.

Google Meet works well for group lessons too.

You can teach multiple students at once, which can help you earn more money in less time.

The platform has some cool features that can help with your music lessons.

You can share your screen to show sheet music or videos.

There’s also a chat function for quick communication during lessons.

One downside is that Google Meet doesn’t have a special music mode.

This means the sound quality might not be as good as some other platforms made just for music.

You might need to adjust your teaching style a bit when using Google Meet.

Try to speak clearly and use visual cues to help your students follow along.

Google Meet is free and easy to use, which is great for your budget.

You can put more of your earnings towards growing your music lesson business.

Remember to test your setup before your first lesson.

Make sure your camera and microphone are working well.

Good lighting can also make a big difference in how professional you look to your students.

4) Microsoft Teams

Want to make some extra cash teaching music online? Microsoft Teams might be your new best friend.

This app is part of the Microsoft 365 suite, so you might already have access to it.

Teams lets you video chat with your students easily.

You can share your screen to show sheet music or demonstrations.

It’s great for one-on-one lessons or even small group classes.

One cool feature is the ability to record lessons.

This means your students can rewatch them later to practice.

Plus, you can use these recordings to create content for your music teaching side hustle.

Teams also has a chat function.

You can use this to send quick messages or share files with your students between lessons.

It’s a nice way to keep in touch and offer support.

The whiteboard feature is another neat tool.

You can use it to draw music notes or explain concepts visually during your lessons.

It’s like having a virtual classroom at your fingertips.

Remember, Teams works on computers, tablets, and phones.

This means you and your students can join lessons from almost anywhere.

It’s perfect for fitting your music teaching around your main job.

While Teams isn’t specifically made for music lessons, it’s a solid choice for your teaching side gig.

It’s user-friendly and packed with helpful features.

Give it a try and see how it can help you grow your online music teaching business.

5) TakeLessons

Want to share your musical talents and make some extra cash? TakeLessons might be just what you’re looking for.

This platform connects music teachers with students eager to learn.

You can offer online classes or local lessons right from your home or in a studio.

It’s super flexible, so you can fit teaching around your regular job or other commitments.

TakeLessons has a wide range of instruments and styles to choose from.

Whether you’re a pro at piano, guitar, or even the ukulele, there’s a spot for you.

The best part? You don’t have to worry about finding students.

TakeLessons does the heavy lifting by matching you with learners who fit your expertise and schedule.

They also offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee to students.

This means you’ll likely get motivated learners who are serious about improving their skills.

Setting up your profile is easy.

You can showcase your experience, set your rates, and choose your availability.

It’s a great way to build your teaching portfolio and gain experience.

Remember, teaching music isn’t just about the money.

It’s a chance to share your passion and help others discover the joy of music.

Plus, explaining concepts to others can actually make you a better musician too.

So why not give it a shot? TakeLessons could be your ticket to a fun and rewarding side gig in the world of music.

6) Lessonface

Want to make some extra cash teaching music? Lessonface might be your ticket.

It’s a platform where you can offer live online music lessons to students around the world.

Lessonface connects you with people eager to learn various instruments and singing styles.

You can teach guitar, piano, violin, or even freestyle rap if that’s your thing.

Setting up your profile is easy.

You’ll showcase your skills, set your rates, and choose your availability.

The platform handles the scheduling and payments, so you can focus on teaching.

One cool thing about Lessonface is its variety.

You can teach beginners or advanced students, kids or adults.

It’s up to you to decide who you want to work with.

The platform has been around since 2012 and has connected over 30,000 students with more than 2,000 teachers.

That’s a lot of music lessons!

You don’t need to be a famous musician to teach on Lessonface.

But having some experience and a passion for teaching helps.

It’s a great way to share your love of music and earn some extra money on the side.

Remember, you’re not just teaching notes and rhythms.

You’re helping people discover the joy of making music.

And that’s pretty awesome.

7) Live Music Tutor

Looking to turn your musical talents into a side gig? Live Music Tutor might be just what you need.

This platform connects you with students from all over the world who are eager to learn music online.

You don’t need to be a professional musician to teach here.

If you’re good at an instrument and love sharing your knowledge, you can sign up as an instructor.

The platform offers a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to schedule and conduct lessons.

You can teach from the comfort of your home, which is perfect for a side hustle.

Live Music Tutor handles the technical stuff, so you can focus on teaching.

They provide the video chat tools you need for your lessons.

One cool thing about this platform is its variety.

You can teach almost any instrument or music style you’re good at.

This means you can stick to your strengths and passion.

Pricing is flexible, allowing you to set your own rates.

This lets you balance your time and earnings in a way that works for your side hustle goals.

The platform also offers master classes, which could be a great way to showcase your skills and attract more students.

Remember, teaching music online requires a good internet connection and some basic tech skills.

But if you’ve got those, Live Music Tutor could be a great way to earn some extra cash doing what you love.

8) Play With a Pro

Want to make some extra cash with your musical skills? Play With a Pro might be your ticket.

This platform lets you teach music online to students around the world.

You don’t need fancy equipment to get started.

Just a computer with a webcam and mic will do the trick.

No special software required.

It’s simple to set up and start teaching.

One cool feature is that all your lessons get recorded.

This means your students can watch them again later.

It’s great for helping them practice between sessions.

Play With a Pro offers different ways to teach.

You can do private video lessons or even masterclasses.

This variety keeps things interesting for both you and your students.

The platform caters to all kinds of musicians.

Whether you play guitar, piano, or sing, there’s likely a spot for you.

You can teach beginners or help advanced players polish their skills.

Setting your own prices is a big plus.

You have control over how much you charge for your expertise.

This flexibility lets you adjust based on your experience and schedule.

Remember, teaching music online can be a fun side gig.

It lets you share your passion and earn some extra money.

Plus, you might even learn a thing or two from your students along the way.

9) FaceTime

FaceTime is a handy option for online music lessons, especially if you and your students use Apple devices.

It’s free and already installed on iPhones, iPads, and Macs, making it super easy to get started.

You don’t need to create an account or download anything new.

Just tap the FaceTime icon, and you’re ready to teach.

This simplicity is great when you’re juggling a busy schedule and want to offer quick, hassle-free lessons.

FaceTime provides good video quality for music lessons.

You can see your students clearly as they play their instruments or sing.

The audio quality is decent too, which is crucial for hearing those musical details.

One cool feature is Group FaceTime.

You can teach up to 32 people at once, perfect for small group lessons or ensemble practice.

This can help you maximize your teaching time and income.

FaceTime works well for short lessons or quick check-ins with students.

You could offer mini-lessons or practice sessions as a flexible side gig.

It’s great for fitting teaching around your other commitments.

Remember, FaceTime is only for Apple users.

If your students don’t have Apple devices, you’ll need to consider other options.

But for those in the Apple ecosystem, it’s a simple and effective tool for online music teaching.

Benefits of Online Music Lessons

Online music lessons offer great perks for both teachers and students.

They make learning more accessible, diverse, and budget-friendly.

Let’s explore these advantages in detail.

Convenience and Flexibility

You can teach or learn music from anywhere with an internet connection.

No need to commute or stick to rigid schedules.

This flexibility is perfect for busy people or those in remote areas.

You can easily fit lessons into your day.

Teach during lunch breaks or after work.

Learn in the comfort of your home, even in your pajamas!

Online platforms offer tools like screen sharing and recording.

These help you review lessons later or catch up if you miss one.

Got a sudden gig? No problem.

It’s often easier to reschedule online lessons than in-person ones.

Access to a Variety of Instructors

Online lessons break down geographical barriers.

You’re not limited to local teachers anymore.

Want to learn jazz from a pro in New Orleans? Or classical guitar from a Spanish maestro? Now you can!

Platforms like Wyzant connect you with a wide range of tutors.

You can find someone who fits your skill level, learning style, and musical interests.

This variety is great for your side hustle too.

As a teacher, you can attract students from all over the world.

You can also specialize in niche areas.

Love teaching ukulele or throat singing? There’s probably an online audience for that!

Cost-Effectiveness

Online lessons often cost less than in-person ones.

Why? Teachers have lower overhead costs.

No need to rent a studio or travel.

These savings can be passed on to you as a student.

As a teacher, you can earn more by cutting out travel time and expenses.

You can teach more lessons in a day without burning out.

Some platforms offer group lessons, making it even more affordable for students.

You can learn with friends or meet new people with similar interests.

Equipment costs are usually low.

Most laptops have decent webcams and mics.

You might need to buy a few extras, but it’s still cheaper than regular in-person lessons.

Essential Features of the Best Platforms

The top online music lesson platforms offer key tools and features to make teaching and learning smooth.

They focus on user-friendly design, interactive elements, and flexible pricing to suit different needs.

Interactive Tools

Good platforms come packed with cool stuff to make lessons fun.

You’ll find virtual whiteboards for jotting down notes or drawing music symbols.

Some even have built-in metronomes and tuners to keep you on beat and in tune.

Video sharing is a must-have.

You can record yourself playing and send it to your teacher for feedback.

Or watch demo videos from your instructor to see proper technique.

Many platforms offer screen sharing too.

This lets you and your teacher look at sheet music together in real-time.

It’s like being in the same room!

User-Friendly Interface

A clunky website can kill your motivation to practice.

The best platforms keep things simple and clean.

You want a dashboard that shows your upcoming lessons, practice logs, and learning materials all in one spot.

Look for easy scheduling tools.

You should be able to book, reschedule, or cancel lessons with just a few clicks.

Some platforms even sync with your personal calendar to avoid conflicts.

Video call quality is crucial.

The top platforms use tech that reduces lag and keeps audio crisp.

This matters a ton when you’re trying to stay in sync with your teacher.

Affordable Payment Plans

Starting a side hustle teaching music shouldn’t break the bank.

Good platforms offer flexible pricing to fit your budget and teaching style.

Many use a subscription model.

You pay a monthly fee and can teach as many students as you want.

This works great if you plan to teach a lot.

Some platforms let you set your own rates.

You keep most of the money, while they take a small cut for hosting and admin stuff.

This gives you more control over your income.

Watch out for hidden fees.

The best platforms are upfront about all costs.

Look for ones that include payment processing, scheduling tools, and basic video features in their base price.

Tips for Choosing the Right Platform

Picking the best platform for your online music lessons can make or break your side hustle.

It’s crucial to find one that fits your teaching style and meets your students’ needs.

Assess Your Needs

Start by thinking about what you need from a platform.

Do you want to share sheet music during lessons? Maybe you need a built-in metronome or the ability to record sessions.

Make a list of must-have features.

This might include:

• High-quality video and audio
• Screen sharing capabilities
• Virtual whiteboard
• Payment processing
• Scheduling tools

Don’t forget about your students! Consider their tech skills and what devices they’ll use.

A platform that works well on both computers and phones can be a big plus.

Read Reviews

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, it’s time to see what other music teachers think.

Look for reviews from folks who teach your instrument or style of music.

Pay attention to comments about:

• Ease of use
• Customer support
• Audio quality
• Reliability

Wyzant is popular among many tutors.

See what they say about it and other platforms you’re considering.

Don’t just read the glowing 5-star reviews.

Check out some lower ratings too.

They can give you a heads-up about potential problems.

Take Advantage of Trial Periods

Most platforms offer free trials.

Use them! It’s the best way to see if a platform feels right for you.

During your trial:

• Test all the features you plan to use
• Try out the platform at different times of day
• Have a mock lesson with a friend

Pay attention to how intuitive the interface is.

You don’t want to waste lesson time figuring out tech issues.

Also, check out the student experience.

Is it easy for them to join lessons? Can they access resources you share?

Remember, the right platform can help you grow your online teaching business.

Take your time to find the best fit for you and your students.