Jessica Deskin Music - ONLINE LESSONS

Jessica Deskin Music - ONLINE LESSONS

Listen. Encourage. Analyze. Critique. Try to motivate. Hope to inspire. Breathe. Practice. Reflect. Cleanse. Repeat.

Demand = Reward.

Love being a teacher.

Choose a service to schedule

ONLINE Private Lessons: Voice, Piano, Musicianship (1 HR) - $72
Hello and welcome to my online lesson scheduler! I'm glad you are here. If you happened upon this page through something other than my website, and would like a little information about my experience as an educator and performer, you can check out my website/bio by clicking on this link: https://jessicadeskinmusic.com/about.

Now is the time to invest in yourself and your music. You are in exactly the right place. Welcome!

Lessons are individualized for each student, catering to the student’s learning and communication style. There are many different types of private lessons available, and most of these can be done in groups as well!

Here are some of the topics for lessons:
Vocal technique (overall vocal health, body alignment, breathing, tone, releasing tension, vocal flexibility, range development, articulation, dynamics/expression, etc.) in various styles (classical and contemporary styles, such as musical theatre, jazz, pop)
Sight-singing
Improvisation
Songwriting/Arranging
Audition Prep
Performance, artistry/expression
Piano for Vocalists
Music Theory (what you really need to know)
Chord-Reading
Range-testing (for singers)
Rep review building session and assessment

Private lessons are the best way to improve your skills as a musician. If you are serious about getting to the next level, whether it be through technique, musicianship, overall performance, creativity—or maybe you’re just a little shy and only want to sing in front of one person for a while—one-on-one instruction is the best thing for you.

That said, group classes and collaborative projects are fun, enriching, and rewarding (emotionally and educationally) too! Group classes have been offered in music theory, vocal jazz improvisation, group singing, songwriting/analysis, musical theatre ‘in the round’, and more. If you are interested in joining a class or want to put something together with a small group of your friends/music buddies, please email me at jessica@jessicadeskinmusic.com for more info.

All lessons listed here are one hour in length. There are no refunds, so please be sure when you are reserving your lesson time that you can attend (one-time emergency last-minute cancellation will be considered for a make-up when possible).

Vocalists: for age 13 and older, it is highly recommended that you have at least one-hour lessons due to the nature of vocal technique study and the time it takes to internalize these lessons and feel good about the week of practice. However, I am open to working with you to accommodate scheduling/financial needs.

Piano lessons are available for ages 10 and up, but I am open to interviewing younger students--please email me at jessica@jessicadeskinmusic.com. Also, regular weekly lessons are available at a discounted rate; ask about any openings I have if this is what you prefer! Discounts available for college and homeschooled students, as well as retired/senior rates.

For other lesson lengths, please email me at jessica@jessicadeskinmusic.com. Also, regular weekly lessons are available at a discounted rate; ask about any openings I have if this is what you prefer.

I’m looking forward to hearing from you!

Jessica Deskin

~ Music for Life.

The FAQs:

Q: Who’s it for?
A: Voice and Piano, age 13 to adult (younger students considered on a case-by-case basis)

Special message to adults:
Yes, ADULTS WELCOME! Whether you are a seasoned performer looking to develop your musicianship/theory knowledge, a symphony musician wanting to explore more commercial/jazz styles, a drummer or producer with a desire to learn to sing/play piano, or a community musical theatre vocalist needing some vocal direction regarding repertoire choice/development, audition prep, range development, etc. this is for YOU.

There is no age in music, and don’t worry about ‘what you know’ and ‘what you don’t know’—wherever you are, I will meet you there. Don’t just rely on the roles you win or the gigs you get to advance your performing/music skills—private and group lesson work will get you to your next level.

Q: How long are the lessons?
A: 60-minutes is most often the minimum length of time required for a quality and comprehensive lesson. However, I will work with you to accommodate 30- or 45-minute lesson times, just email me at jessica@jessicadeskinmusic.com. (Also, longer lesson times are available by request)

Q: Is there a monthly commitment?
A: For this service, there is NO monthly commitment. That said, steady, weekly lessons are recommended to see real progress. You can purchase/schedule any number of lessons (within two months in advance) you’d like right here to make that happen, OR you may be interested in advance-purchase packages for investing in more than 4 lessons. If you would like more information on these options, please email me at jessica@jessicadeskinmusic.com.

Q: What do I need?
A: All students need: strong internet connection, music stand (attached to piano is fine), one device to connect to Zoom with camera/audio, access to a printer and a second device for music, lyrics, recordings, backing tracks, etc. I share a folder of all music, lesson notes, relevant tools through Google Drive for each student. Vocalists need a binder (1 1/2 in 3-ring hardback black is recommended, sheet protectors) for sheet music, lyrics, and note paper.
It is highly recommended to have a usb compressor microphone with headphones, and a piano/keyboard nearby, or a setup with microphone, usb interface, keyboard.

TIPS: Arrange your lesson area as close to internet router as possible. Test the lighting and sound before getting started. Set up your online lesson area as if it were a classroom setting; this means placing the zoom camera at a height appropriate for a teacher to be communicating with you face to face, set on a desk or other sturdy piece of furniture, not chatting on the couch or sitting crosslegged at your keyboard with the phone on the music stand. Vocalists: prepare to stand during the lesson if possible, and I should be able to see your upper body (waist to top of the head) for breathing/alignment assessment, and we will be moving our bodies throughout exercises and songs so (try to) give yourself some room, if possible. Pianists: a diagonal view of the keys is perfectly fine.

Q: How does it work?
A: I send you (the student or parent of student) the Zoom invitation via email. You don’t need to have the app, but it is recommended. A few minutes before the lesson time, you click the link in the email, wait in the virtual waiting room and I (the host) will admit you to the lesson at start time. I will send follow-up materials and assignments as needed during and after lessons.

Q: What about the lag issue?
A: Unfortunately, this is an ongoing issue, as the technology to play virtually in 'real time' simple does not exist. However, there are many ways to work around this. For example, students can sing along with tracks behind them so the accompaniment is not delayed (coming from the same output). Also, lessons are extremely productive with back-and-forth learning, and preparation (from both the student and teacher) of materials such as karaoke tracks, accompaniment/backing tracks (found in apps and personally recorded), plus the most important tools: communication and patience. From my own experience of teaching online for over 3 years, it takes a lesson or two to get used to, then it feels like the norm! We can do SO much online, and with the resources available, the sky is the limit. If you're hesitant, I completely understand (I was too!), just know that online music lessons have been happening with success for a LONG time, and people are growing because of it. Don't let the 'fear of the unknown' or the frustration get in your way or make you throw in the towel early--schedule a free chat/mini-session with me, and see how it goes!

Q: How do I sign up?
A: There are a few options here:
1) If you’re ready to jump in, just click on the dates listed to schedule the specific lessons you want, and enter your credit/debit card for payment (securely processed through Stripe). Once you schedule this, I will contact you to find out more about your experience, goals, etc. You’ll be reminded of your upcoming lessons through email, with option for reminders through text as well.
2) If you’d like to set up a 15-minute Zoom call as a free trial, please email me at jessica@jessicadeskinmusic.com, and I’ll be happy to schedule it for you!
3) If you’re a previous student of mine, and/or are interested in learning about options, promotions, packages, etc. please email me at jessica@jessicadeskinmusic.com.

Q: Can my friend do the lesson with me? Are there group options?
A: Yes. For learning theory, you can have as many people as you like share the one-hour lesson. For individual voice study, you can split the hour with one other singer.

Q: What if I’m sick and need to cancel?
A: Life gets in the way, mistakes happen, and let’s face it, if you are unable to speak without pain, it makes it pretty challenging to have any kind of music lesson (and it's not recommended to sing on a sick voice!). Here are some options for when this happens:
1) If it’s a planning issue and you cancel at least 14 days in advance, I will offer to make it up at a time that is convenient for both of us. (Thank you in advance for your consideration and keeping rescheduling at a minimum of once or twice a year.) You may also send in a recording to be critiqued during this time, or request a personal repertoire research hour for a specific genre or song type, upcoming audition/role, etc.
2) If it’s a last-minute cancellation (less than 48 hours), I’ll offer a ONE-TIME make-up lesson, to be scheduled at a time convenient for both of us. Any future last-minute cancellations will not be rescheduled, but you will have the option to attend an open studio class (scheduled as needed, in advance).
(There are no refunds.)



*Jessica Deskin is a trained vocalist in both classical and contemporary styles of voice in addition to Estill voice technique with over a decade of experience teaching students ages 3 1/2 to retired adult. All instruction is in support of healthy vocal technique and practice; clients are responsible for maintaining their vocal health and following instructions to prevent injury. Jessica Deskin reserves the right to deny vocal instruction to any client who refuses to practice healthy vocal technique, professionally advised therapy and/or medical examination per request of a vocal technician/coach. Additionally, Jessica Deskin reserves the right to deny and/or end a lesson due to any behavior that is inappropriate for a private or group music lesson. No refunds are provided; make-up lessons will be considered for extreme circumstances only.*
ONLINE Private Lessons: Voice, Piano, Range/Tone Assessment (30 min) - $36
Hello and welcome to my online lesson scheduler! I'm glad you are here. If you happened upon this page through something other than my website, and would like a little information about my experience as an educator and performer, you can check out my website/bio by clicking on this link: https://jessicadeskinmusic.com/about.

Now is the time to invest in yourself and your music. You are in exactly the right place. Welcome!

Lessons are individualized for each student, catering to the student’s learning and communication style. There are many different types of private lessons available, and most of these can be done in groups as well!

Here are some of the topics for lessons:
Vocal technique (overall vocal health, body alignment, breathing, tone, releasing tension, vocal flexibility, range development, articulation, dynamics/expression, etc.) in various styles (classical and contemporary styles, such as musical theatre, jazz, pop)
Sight-singing
Improvisation
Songwriting/Arranging
Audition Prep
Performance, artistry/expression
Piano for Vocalists
Music Theory (what you really need to know)
Chord-Reading
Range-testing (for singers)
Rep review building session and assessment

Private lessons are the best way to improve your skills as a musician. If you are serious about getting to the next level, whether it be through technique, musicianship, overall performance, creativity—or maybe you’re just a little shy and only want to sing in front of one person for a while—one-on-one instruction is the best thing for you.

That said, group classes and collaborative projects are fun, enriching, and rewarding (emotionally and educationally) too! Group classes have been offered in music theory, vocal jazz improvisation, group singing, songwriting/analysis, musical theatre ‘in the round’, and more. If you are interested in joining a class or want to put something together with a small group of your friends/music buddies, please email me at jessica@jessicadeskinmusic.com for more info.

These lessons are 30-minutes in length, and are recommended for beginning/intermediate level piano students, and are fine for a very specific vocal topic. It is challenging to squeeze a comprehensive vocal technique lesson with repertoire into 30 minutes, unless the student is advanced. With more advanced students, we can likely work on one or two specific vocal techniques within a song.

*There are no refunds, so please be sure when you are reserving your lesson time that you can attend (one-time emergency last-minute cancellation will be considered for a make-up when possible).

Vocalists: for age 13 and older, it is highly recommended that you have at least one-hour lessons due to the nature of vocal technique study and the time it takes to internalize these lessons and feel good about the week of practice. However, I am open to working with you to accommodate scheduling/financial needs.

Piano lessons are available for ages 10 and up, but I am open to interviewing younger students--please email me at jessica@jessicadeskinmusic.com. Also, regular weekly lessons are available at a discounted rate; ask about any openings I have if this is what you prefer!

I’m looking forward to hearing from you!

Jessica Deskin

~ Music for Life.

The FAQs:

Q: Who’s it for?
A: Voice and Piano, age 13 to adult (younger students considered on a case-by-case basis)

Special message to adults:
Yes, ADULTS WELCOME! Whether you are a seasoned performer looking to develop your musicianship/theory knowledge, a symphony musician wanting to explore more commercial/jazz styles, a drummer or producer with a desire to learn to sing/play piano, or a community musical theatre vocalist needing some vocal direction regarding repertoire choice/development, audition prep, range development, etc. this is for YOU.

There is no age in music, and don’t worry about ‘what you know’ and ‘what you don’t know’—wherever you are, I will meet you there. Don’t just rely on the roles you win or the gigs you get to advance your performing/music skills—private and group lesson work will get you to your next level.

Q: How long are the lessons?
A: 60-minutes is most often the minimum length of time required for a quality and comprehensive lesson. However, I will work with you to accommodate 30- or 45-minute lesson times, just email me at jessica@jessicadeskinmusic.com. (Also, longer lesson times are available by request)

Q: Is there a monthly commitment?
A: For this service, there is NO monthly commitment. That said, steady, weekly lessons are recommended to see real progress. You can purchase/schedule any number of lessons (within two months in advance) you’d like right here to make that happen, OR you may be interested in advance-purchase packages for investing in more than 4 lessons. If you would like more information on these options, please email me at jessica@jessicadeskinmusic.com.

Q: What do I need?
A: All students need: strong internet connection, music stand (attached to piano is fine), one device to connect to Zoom with camera/audio, access to a printer and a second device for music, lyrics, recordings, backing tracks, etc. I share a folder of all music, lesson notes, relevant tools through Google Drive for each student. Vocalists need a binder (1 1/2 in 3-ring hardback black is recommended, sheet protectors) for sheet music, lyrics, and note paper.
It is highly recommended to have a usb compressor microphone with headphones, and a piano/keyboard nearby, or a setup with microphone, usb interface, keyboard.

TIPS: Arrange your lesson area as close to internet router as possible. Test the lighting and sound before getting started. Set up your online lesson area as if it were a classroom setting; this means placing the zoom camera at a height appropriate for a teacher to be communicating with you face to face, set on a desk or other sturdy piece of furniture, not chatting on the couch or sitting crosslegged at your keyboard with the phone on the music stand. Vocalists: prepare to stand during the lesson if possible, and I should be able to see your upper body (waist to top of the head) for breathing/alignment assessment, and we will be moving our bodies throughout exercises and songs so (try to) give yourself some room, if possible. Pianists: a diagonal view of the keys is perfectly fine.

Q: How does it work?
A: I send you (the student or parent of student) the Zoom invitation via email. You don’t need to have the app, but it is recommended. A few minutes before the lesson time, you click the link in the email, wait in the virtual waiting room and I (the host) will admit you to the lesson at start time. I will send follow-up materials and assignments as needed during and after lessons.

Q: What about the lag issue?
A: Unfortunately, this is an ongoing issue, as the technology to play virtually in 'real time' simple does not exist. However, there are many ways to work around this. For example, students can sing along with tracks behind them so the accompaniment is not delayed (coming from the same output). Also, lessons are extremely productive with back-and-forth learning, and preparation (from both the student and teacher) of materials such as karaoke tracks, accompaniment/backing tracks (found in apps and personally recorded), plus the most important tools: communication and patience. From my own experience of teaching online for over 3 years, it takes a lesson or two to get used to, then it feels like the norm! We can do SO much online, and with the resources available, the sky is the limit. If you're hesitant, I completely understand (I was too!), just know that online music lessons have been happening with success for a LONG time, and people are growing because of it. Don't let the 'fear of the unknown' or the frustration get in your way or make you throw in the towel early--schedule a free chat/mini-session with me, and see how it goes!

Q: How do I sign up?
A: There are a few options here:
1) If you’re ready to jump in, just click on the dates listed to schedule the specific lessons you want, and enter your credit/debit card for payment (securely processed through Stripe). Once you schedule this, I will contact you to find out more about your experience, goals, etc. You’ll be reminded of your upcoming lessons through email, with option for reminders through text as well.
2) If you’d like to set up a 15-minute Zoom call as a free trial, please email me at jessica@jessicadeskinmusic.com, and I’ll be happy to schedule it for you!
3) If you’re a previous student of mine, and/or are interested in learning about options, promotions, packages, etc. please email me at jessica@jessicadeskinmusic.com.

Q: Can my friend do the lesson with me? Are there group options?
A: Yes. For learning theory, you can have as many people as you like share the one-hour lesson. For individual voice study, you can split the hour with one other singer.

Q: What if I’m sick and need to cancel?
A: Life gets in the way, mistakes happen, and let’s face it, if you are unable to speak without pain, it makes it pretty challenging to have any kind of music lesson (and it's not recommended to sing on a sick voice!). Here are some options for when this happens:
1) If it’s a planning issue and you cancel at least 14 days in advance, I will offer to make it up at a time that is convenient for both of us. (Thank you in advance for your consideration and keeping rescheduling at a minimum of once or twice a year.) You may also send in a recording to be critiqued during this time, or request a personal repertoire research hour for a specific genre or song type, upcoming audition/role, etc.
2) If it’s a last-minute cancellation (less than 48 hours), I’ll offer a ONE-TIME make-up lesson, to be scheduled at a time convenient for both of us. Any future last-minute cancellations will not be rescheduled, but you will have the option to attend an open studio class (scheduled as needed, in advance).
(There are no refunds.)



*Jessica Deskin is a trained vocalist in both classical and contemporary styles of voice in addition to Estill voice technique with over a decade of experience teaching students ages 3 1/2 to retired adult. All instruction is in support of healthy vocal technique and practice; clients are responsible for maintaining their vocal health and following instructions to prevent injury. Jessica Deskin reserves the right to deny vocal instruction to any client who refuses to practice healthy vocal technique, professionally advised therapy and/or medical examination per request of a vocal technician/coach. Additionally, Jessica Deskin reserves the right to deny and/or end a lesson due to any behavior that is inappropriate for a private or group music lesson. No refunds are provided; make-up lessons will be considered for extreme circumstances only.*
Directions Maryland, USA
443-617-1524