Many individuals turn to YouTube or other online videos as a resource for learning to play a musical instrument.

While online videos can be convenient and accessible, there are several limitations to this approach that may hinder the effectiveness of the learning process.

Emphasis on Teaching Songs, Not the Instrument

One significant limitation of learning through online videos is that they often focus on teaching specific songs rather than teaching the instrument itself.

These videos may provide step-by-step instructions on how to play a particular song, but may not cover the foundational skills, techniques, and theory necessary to truly understand and master the instrument. Without a solid foundation in the fundamentals, learners may struggle to progress and may not be able to apply their skills to different styles or genres of music.

Assumptions of Prior Knowledge

Another limitation of online videos is that the person producing the video may assume that learners have certain prior knowledge or skills, which may not be true for everyone.

For example, they may assume that learners already understand basic musical notation, have a grasp of music theory, or know how to read sheet music.

This can be particularly challenging for beginners who are starting from scratch and may feel overwhelmed or confused by assumptions made in the videos.

Without proper guidance and instruction in foundational concepts, learners may struggle to grasp more advanced concepts and may develop knowledge gaps that can hinder their progress.

Lack of Personalized Guidance and Feedback

Online videos lack the personalized guidance and feedback that is crucial for effective learning.

Every learner is unique and may have different strengths, weaknesses, and learning styles.

A skilled music teacher can provide personalized guidance, offer real-time feedback, correct mistakes, and adapt the instruction to the learner's specific needs.

In contrast, online videos are pre-recorded and do not offer the same level of individualized attention. This can result in learners developing incorrect techniques, bad habits, or misunderstandings, which may be difficult to correct later on.

Limited Accountability and Motivation

Learning to play an instrument requires consistent practice and dedication over time.

In-person classes with a music teacher provide learners with a sense of accountability as they are expected to attend classes regularly and practice between lessons.

Music teachers can also provide motivation, encouragement, and support, helping learners stay committed to their practice routine and overcome challenges.

On the other hand, online videos may lack the same level of accountability and motivation, making it easier for learners to procrastinate, lose motivation, or fall behind in their practice.

Benefits of In-Person Classes with a Music Teacher

Attending in-person classes with a skilled music teacher offers several benefits that may not be available through online videos.

A music teacher can provide a structured curriculum that covers foundational skills, techniques, and theory, tailored to the learner's skill level and pace.

They can also offer personalized guidance, feedback, and correction, ensuring that learners develop correct techniques and avoid developing bad habits.

Music teachers can provide accountability, motivation, and support, fostering a positive learning environment that encourages regular practice and sustained progress.

In addition, in-person classes provide opportunities for interpersonal interaction, such as playing in ensembles, receiving real-time feedback, and engaging in musical discussions, which can greatly enhance the learning experience and foster a sense of community.

In conclusion

While online videos can be a helpful supplementary resource, relying solely on them to learn to play a musical instrument may have limitations.

The focus on teaching songs rather than the instrument itself, assumptions of prior knowledge, lack of personalized guidance and feedback, and limited accountability and motivation may hinder overall progress.

Attending in-person classes with a skilled music teacher offers a more beneficial and comprehensive learning experience, providing structured lessons, personalized guidance, accountability, motivation, and opportunities for interpersonal interaction, ultimately leading to more effective skill development on the instrument.