What Do I Need for Online Piano Lessons?

By Mirco Lieber, MMag. (MDW Vienna) · October 11, 2026 · 4 min read

You need a piano or digital piano (ideally with weighted keys), a device with camera and microphone and a stable internet connection. That is enough to start. Headphones, a second camera angle and a music stand make lessons more comfortable.

The instrument

Ideal is a piano or digital piano with weighted keys and preferably 88 keys, because your touch then develops as on a piano. As a guide for beginners: digital pianos from roughly 400 to 800 EUR (rule of thumb, as of 2026). A keyboard with light keys can be enough at the start but holds you back over time. More in our digital piano guide and piano vs keyboard.

Camera, microphone and internet

How to place the camera

The teacher should see your hands and the keyboard. An angle from the side or slightly from above is ideal. A tablet on a small tripod or a second device used as a handheld camera works well; the main device then shows you and your posture.

Useful extras

No instrument yet?

Ask for recommendations in the free trial lesson. We also clarify what fits your goal and budget before you buy anything.

What students say

“Lessons with Mirco are exactly what I was looking for. At the start we agreed on the content and learning goals together and made progress quickly. The pace is just right, and questions in between are answered competently. The technology works wonderfully. I can highly recommend Mirco as a piano teacher!”
Andi H., Google review

“I am thrilled with the quality of the online lessons. After years of searching, I found the perfect way to learn piano alongside work and family. Mirco is a very professional and warm teacher who responds to individual needs and shapes the lessons with great commitment.”
Lucian D., Google review

Reviews from Mirco's Google profile (5.0 from 58 reviews). Read all reviews on Google

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a real acoustic piano?

No. A digital piano with weighted keys is enough to start and is often more practical for online lessons.

How many keys should my instrument have?

Preferably 88 keys. Fewer is fine at the very start, but many piano pieces use the full range.

How do I place the camera?

So that your hands and the keyboard are clearly visible, for example from the side or slightly from above. A second device as a handheld camera helps.

What if my internet connection is unstable?

Move closer to the router or use a cable. If problems continue, you can lower the video quality in Zoom so the audio stays stable.