Teaching music isn't just about instruction — it's about nurturing, especially when it comes to a beginner.
I am a music teacher. I've been teaching for over 35 years. But to be honest — I still don’t conduct online classes myself, because I'm not yet very comfortable with technology. However, one thing I know for sure is that teaching a beginner in music is the most challenging and most responsible task.
Once a student learns to catch the notes or becomes comfortable with the instrument — guiding them becomes much easier. But a child who's touching the harmonium or tabla for the first time, or singing their first “Sa” — keeping them on the right path is the true test of a teacher.
This has always been the tradition in Indian classical music — the teacher who helps a student place their fingers on the instrument for the first time or explains the true feeling behind “Sa” is considered the real guru.
That’s why today, based on my experience, I want to share with you the top 5 online music platforms that are best suited for beginners.
🥇 1. DeckM (www.deckm.in) – An Emerging Yet Deep Platform
🎯 Designed especially for young beginners
🧑🏫 1-on-1 live classes
🌐 Sessions conducted via Google Meet
🔒 Secure payments through Razorpay
🇮🇳 Available in both Hindi and English
DeckM’s biggest plus point: a focus on foundations. The teachers here take pride in teaching the basics like “Sa” — rather than just showcasing their own skills.
🥈 2. Shankar Mahadevan Academy
🎶 Formal online courses
🎤 Certified trainers
🎓 Structured learning modules
The training here is very well organized, but most of the courses are pre-recorded. Since beginners need more interaction, this platform leans more towards self-paced learning than live 1-on-1 guidance.
🥉 3. IndianRaga
📹 A unique video-based teaching approach
🤝 International exposure
💃 Offers both dance and music programs
If a student has already grasped the basics and is preparing for performances, IndianRaga is a great platform. But for absolute beginners, it offers less in-depth handholding.
🏅 4. Riyaz App
📱 Learn via mobile app
🎧 AI-powered pitch and practice correction
💡 Focused on regular riyaaz for beginners
If someone wants to begin learning through their phone and build a daily practice habit, Riyaz is a great tool. However, it lacks the live class or direct mentorship experience.
🎖 5. Udemy / Skillshare and Similar Platforms
📚 Pre-recorded lessons
💰 Affordable pricing
📈 Tracks progress
These platforms are good for people who prefer self-learning. But if your child is learning for the first time, these platforms don’t provide the kind of hands-on guidance a real guru would offer.
🎤 So, which one is best for beginners?
As a teacher, I can say this with responsibility — in the beginning, what matters most is “connection and communication.”
And platforms like DeckM excel at this — where technology and teaching experience come together seamlessly.
📌 Some tips for parents:
- Don’t rely solely on YouTube or apps for online music learning
- Always choose classes with live interaction
- Don’t think your child is too young — the earlier they begin music, the better
- Choose a teacher who focuses on building strong fundamentals, not just performances
🔗 How to get started?
👉 Visit www.deckm.in
👉 Choose a Beginner Course for yourself or your child
👉 Book a slot and join a Live Class
🎯 Conclusion
Music isn’t just a skill — it’s a discipline. And this discipline begins with that one guru who shows you the true essence of “Sa.”
My only aim is to help ensure that your child’s first step in their musical journey is in the right direction.
Savita Gautam
https://www.deckm.in/blog/blog-1/learn-classical-music-dance-online-18
