By Laurie Niles: Like a number of Violinist.com readers, Im a violin teacher, and in "normal times" I teach about a dozen young students in my home. Since the quarantine began, Ive figured out how to use Zoom and other technologies that have enabled me to teach online. Im happy to say, the results have been fairly positive.
But when can we all go back to teaching in person?
![Laurie with Chloe]()
Here I am with my student Chloe, last year. I miss seeing my students in person!
As states begin to reopen, teachers are telling me they are beginning to plan to reopen their studios. In fact, some have shared that they anticipate teaching "in person" as early as next week. Others are looking at state-by-state guidelines and opening up in accordance with other "business opening" guidelines. And yet other teachers wonder if it will be possible to teach in person, even in the fall.
With a lack of clear direction as to when private studios are technically allowed to reopen, what are your thoughts? Whether youre a teacher, student, or simply someone who is close to a teacher or student, when do you think its appropriate for in-person lessons to begin again?
Please pick the answer below that most closely corresponds to your choice, then provide specifics in the comments section. While these answers are based on a time-line, what other conditions do you feel are necessary for "in person" private lessons? For example, do you anticipate social distancing, wearing masks, sanitizing the studio in between students? Should students be spaced apart so there is 10 minutes in between lessons so students will not be in contact with each other "in passing"? How can teachers and students make it work, when the time comes?
If you have other ideas for reopening private studios, please share in the comments as well.
When do you envision a return to in-person private music lessons?
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Here I am with my student Chloe, last year. I miss seeing my students in person!