Online Lessons

Online cello lesson with Sam

Sam is a great teacher, he is fun but also focused and sets high expectations.
–Andrea

Learn to play cello with Sam regardless of where you live, thanks to online cello lessons!

All are welcome to join the studio, especially those with physical and intellectual disabilities. Online lessons are a great option for cellists of all levels; the only requirements are a desire to learn and a willingness to try new things!

I teach many styles of music including Western Classical Music, Children’s Songs, Movie/TV Music, Musical Theater, Folk Songs, Rock, Pop, and Jazz. Because of this broad background, I am able to help my students explore the styles they love while introducing them to new ones.

Everyone in the studio gets their own Dropbox folder where we can share learning materials with each other, including sheet music, recordings, videos, worksheets, and flashcards. At the end of every lesson I add updated lesson notes or a practice plan to aid students in their practice.

Most students pick a weekly time slot to reserve for their lesson (which can be canceled up to 24-hours in advance for any reason). But, it is also fine to have lessons more or less frequently than once a week.

I also teach improvisation, composing, and arranging to those who are interested in those topics. Check out the world premiere of my student Wendy’s piece In the Lurking Darkness.

We tried another “in person” teacher, but quickly returned to Sam- a “virtual” Sam is loads better than an “in person” anyone else!!
–Erica

Schedule a FREE trial lesson

Sam’s lessons were always so helpful – whether I had practiced every day that week or just once – we started where I was and worked on technique and enjoying playing the cello.
–Ruth

FAQ

Is there an age requirement for online cello lessons?

I accept both adults and kids as students, but have found that online lessons work best for kids who are at least 9 years old.

What equipment do I need for online cello lessons?

A computer or tablet with a camera, a stable internet connection, and your cello. Headphones are recommended for better sound quality.

For more information on cello equipment, visit samscellostudio.com/equipment.

What platform do you use for online cello lessons?

I have been using Zoom for years for online lessons because of the high quality of sound and screen sharing capabilities it offers. I recommend downloading the free application before your first lessons if you don’t already have it.

How long are lessons?

Lessons can be scheduled for 30, 45, or 60 minutes depending on the student’s age, experience level, and goals. Since there are no commitments or prepayments, it is easy to adjust lesson length at any time!

How do I schedule lessons?

You can schedule lessons at samscellostudio.com/schedule. There are no commitments or prepayments, so you can schedule as many lessons as you’d like, or just one.

What if I am unable to make my lesson?

You can cancel your lesson with the link found your confirmation email or by emailing Sam at samscellostudio@gmail.com. Lessons can be cancelled up to 24 hours in advance without penalty and within 24 hours due to illness, emergency, or inclement weather.

What if I am unable to make my lesson?

You can cancel your lesson with the link found in your confirmation email or by emailing Sam at samscellostudio@gmail.com. Lessons can be cancelled up to 24 hours in advance without penalty and within 24 hours due to illness or emergency.

What if I have technical difficulties during an online cello lesson?

I recommend joining the Zoom lesson about 5-10 minutes early. If you are having trouble at that point, try restarting your device. Email me if you are still unable to join and we will reschedule or cancel your lesson (without charge) as needed.

If there are technical difficulties during the lesson that last longer than 15 minutes, I will not charge for the lesson.

What is the payment structure for online cello lessons?

Your first lesson is free! After that, invoices are sent once a month after lessons occur and can be paid by card (card payments are securely made through Stripe).

Below are online lesson prices (including VAT) in some common currencies. Email sam at samscellostudio@gmail.com if you would like pricing for a different currency or if you need a reduced lesson rate.

Euro

30-min: €40
45-min: €60
60-min: €80

British Pound

30-min: £35
45-min: £53.50
60-min: £70

US Dollar

30-min: US$45
45-min: US$67.50
60-min: US$90

Canadian Dollar

30-min: CA$60
45-min: CA$90
60-min: CA$120

Australian Dollar

30-min: AU$65
45-min: AU$97.50
60-min: AU$130