How We Make Pianote Videos

I’m often asked who decides what videos we make for YouTube.

The simple answer is — you!

We get so many lovely comments on our lessons with questions, suggestions, and requests, and I read them all.

For this month’s VLOG — I’m going to take you through the process from choosing the subject to the final video — and show you all the work (and people) that are involved to make it happen.

But First – Some Exciting News

WE GOT OUR PLAY BUTTON! This was for reaching 100,000 subscribers (we’re actually at 200,000 now but we were lazy lol).

So I wanted to thank each and every one of you who watches and especially subscribes to our channel. We try really hard to make videos that are educational, inspiring and also fun! Playing the piano should be fun, after all.

Ok — so here’s how we make our videos at Pianote. 

Step 1 – Getting Feedback From the Pianote Community

I read all the comments on our videos and look out for questions, suggestions or comments that could make a good topic for a new video. It’s all about figuring out what you guys want — and how we can be helpful in your piano journey.

When choosing a new topic I’ll look at the suggestions and comments, and then first make sure we haven’t already done a lesson on that topic. It’s not fun for you (or me) to keep getting the same lesson over and over.

Step 2 – Scripting

I would love to be able to just walk into the studio and film a flawless lesson — but that’s not the case. Once I have a topic, I’ll sit down and write out a script word-for-word. I do this for a few reasons: it helps make sure the lesson makes sense, is accurate, and that I don’t forget anything!

Often I’ll actually include sheet music in my notes so I can make sure I’m playing something correctly — especially if I’m demonstrating a technique or section from a well-known song.

Step 3 – Filming

You might have noticed recently that we have not been filming in our regular studio. There’s a reason for that. We share studio space with Drumeo, and they have had their VIP weeks for the past month or so. It’s been awesome having so many drummers come and fill our studios, but I’m looking forward to getting back.

As far as the actual filming goes, it can vary depending on the lesson and how many mistakes I make 🙂 The production crew are very patient with me and do everything to make sure that we get the best lesson possible.

Step 4 – Editing

This is where it all comes together, and where Taras (and the other editors) work to make sure I look good! Their life is definitely made easier if I have prepared well and made as few mistakes as possible. Contrary to popular belief, I am NOT perfect! And a lot of work goes into cutting the videos together.

There are several people who check the videos to make sure they look polished, make sense and don’t contain any glaring errors!

And that’s it! Once the videos are finished and ready for upload, I work on the description (this thing you’re reading) and we post them every Tuesday and Friday! And of course, the first Sunday for our VLOGS.

Upcoming lessons!

One of the cool things you’ll hear in the VLOG is some of the lessons we have coming out really soon. Here are a few:

How to change a key mid-song – this one came directly from suggestions. We posted a video about how to change the key of a song, and people wanted to know how you could do that DURING the song. So we’re making a video on it!

Using 7th chords in your songs – we have done lots of videos on 7th chords and how to make them. But how do you incorporate them into music? I’ll show you how AND I’ll do it with a very beautiful popular song to demonstrate.

My favorite chord fill – I’m often asked how to make simple chords sound ‘fancy’ and more complicated. I have a favorite fill that I like to use, and I’ll show you 🙂

And that’s it! I hope you enjoy this look at everything that goes into making these videos for you guys. And as always, if you have questions or comments or suggestions, post them below!

Have fun practicing.

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