Frequently Asked Questions
Getting Started
- What do I need to get started?
- A computer
- Internet connection
- Zoom ([www.zoom.us](http://www.zoom.us))
- Any kind of (MIDI) keyboard / organ / piano
- Does it matter what operating system I use? Windows or Mac?
No.
Equipment & Software
- Do I need a Hammond?
No, you don't need a Hammond. You can use any MIDI keyboard, a clonewheel organ, a synth, or even a (MIDI) piano for my Hammond lessons. Of course, an organ is recommended.
- What software do I need?
At the moment, all you basically need is Zoom (which is free). There are apps and software for both Windows and Mac that make things easier on both sides, but Zoom is a minimum requirement.
Where to get Zoom: [www.zoom.us](http://www.zoom.us)
- What software do YOU use for your “virtual camera”? (experienced users)
Don't read this if you have no experience with or don't have or want a multicamera setup. It's not required to do my lessons.
I use the free open-source software OBS ([https://obsproject.com](https://obsproject.com)) to handle my multiple camera setup (available for Windows and Mac users). Remember that Zoom is all you need to get started. We can discuss possibilities when you're interested in using more advanced software.
- How do YOU setup your audio interface? (experienced users)
Don't read this if you have no experience with audio routing and interfaces and remember it is NOT required to do the lessons!
If you want more than just a built-in microphone setup, it is possible to use an audio interface to transmit the audio of your instrument in combination with a microphone (or multiple microphones) connected to your audio interface.
For most conferencing software, you may need to route all the channels you use to channel 1 and 2. I use a program called Loopback (Mac) or VB-Cable (Windows) to do this.
- What other optional software do you use? (experienced users)
Below is a list of optional software I use. Discuss options before buying anything.
1. Midiculous: A keyboard for my screen that shows which notes I play.
2. VB3: A virtual organ plugin.
3. Hammond B3x: A virtual organ plugin.
Payment & Scheduling
- How can I pay?
At the moment, I accept PayPal, IDEAL, and Credit Card.
- Will the lessons be recorded?
By request, I can record the lesson in Zoom.
Learning & Lessons
- Bass pedals or Left hand bass?
I have always played left hand bass myself, so that's what I teach. Most of my influences were organ players playing left hand bass while bass pedals were mainly used to fatten the attack of the left hand bass lines by kicking a random pedal on every count.
- Do I have to be able to read sheet music?
No, although being able to read helps and is recommended in the long run, it's not a requirement.
