How to use Zoom For Events + Open Mic Zoom Prep Tips

All classes will happen on Zoom. Please do the following before attending classes and events to play! 

  • Download the App:
    • Ensure you have the Zoom app installed on your computer or mobile device. Download here.
  • Check for Updates:
    • Sign in a few minutes early to update the app if necessary.
  • During the Event:
    • Audio: Keep your microphone muted. Use the chat to ask questions or raise your hand; unmute only when spoken to, then mute again.
    • Video: Cameras ON are encouraged to enhance community connection, and they are optional

How to Prepare For playing — ZOOM SETTINGS

If you are playing, we ask that you are 100% prepared to play your song when it’s your turn. If you are called and there is an issue, we may move to the next person and come back to you.  This is to ensure an efficient flow for the event.

Performing live on Zoom presents unique challenges, from audio latency to maintaining audience engagement. Whether you’re a singer, instrumentalist, or both, the following tips and settings will help you deliver a clear, professional performance and be ready when it’s your time to play!

Audio Settings and Preparation

Equipment Recommendations

  • Zoom: For the best results and the most control, use the Zoom desktop client rather than the mobile app. If you have to use your phone/ipad, see instructions below.
  • Webcam: Depending on your laptop, you may find that an external HD webcamlike the Logitech C920 (our #1 recommendation) gives you better audio and video than the computer’s built-in mic and camera — or you can use an external mic.
  • Microphone: To upgrade your audio for performance, we suggest you use an external microphonethat connects to your computer: a USB mic, for instance, or any other mic run through an audio interface. This will show up as a microphone option in Zoom. 
  • Instrument Interface: If possible, connect your instrument directly via an audio interface rather than relying on a built-in mic. 
  • Headphones vs Speakers: If you’re using an external microphone, we recommend you use wired headphones instead of speakers to avoid feedback or echo issues.

Configure Zoom Audio Settings — For Desktop

Here are the key settings to optimize Zoom for music. You’ll only need to change most of these settings once, with the exception of choosing your microphone and speakers and enabling original sound—you have to set those every time you join a meeting.

1.  Start or join a Zoom meeting. 

2. In the lower left corner of the Zoom window, click the carat next to the microphone icon, and choose Audio Settings.

3. In Audio Settings:

  • Choose your preferred microphone and speaker options, and sound-check them using the test buttons. Uncheck the box that says Automatically adjust microphone volume, so you can control the level yourself.
  • Under Audio Profile, Select “Original Sound For Musicians” to bypass automatic audio enhancements that can muffle live instruments or vocals. THIS IS THE MOST IMPORTANT.
    • (Note:  If you have a fan or other continuous noise, you might want to consider switching from “Original sound for musicians” to “Zoom background noise removal” and setting the “Background noise suppression” parameter to Low or Medium). 
  • IMPORTANT NOTE: Make sure that you have ALSO selected “original sound for musicians” in the upper right corner of your screen, as sometimes it doesn’t reflect there.

OPTIONAL OTHER SETTINGS:

  • You’ll then see additional audio options, including “High-fidelity music mode” and “Echo cancellation.
    • Optional: Activate “High Fidelity Music Mode.” This setting optimizes Zoom audio for the highest quality, especially for music. This setting requires a professional audio interface, microphone, and headphones for optimal results. It also requires very strong internet (ethernet is optimal). If you don’t use these things, we suggest not using this feature. 
    • Optional: Echo Cancellation. Echo cancellation helps prevent echoes between your microphone and speakers
      • If using headphones, you can disable echo cancellation for better audio clarity.
      • If not using headphones, leave echo cancellation enabled


Configure Zoom Audio Settings — For PHONE

It is always best to play using a desktop. If you must use your phone, please follow these instructions in order to play. Please note that instructions may vary depending on phone and zoom version. Please google it if they differ from iphone below:

Before Joining a Meeting/Call:

  1. Open the Zoom app on your iPhone and tap your profile picture.
  2. Go to Settings.
  3. Tap Meetings.
  4. Toggle on “Use Original Sound”.
  5. While you’re in settings, you can also go to Audio and uncheck “Automatically adjust microphone volume” if it’s available, to prevent Zoom from changing your music’s volume.

Other Helpful Tips

Test Your Setup

  • Run a Test Call: Before your live session, conduct a test run with a friend or record a short clip. Listen back to ensure that levels, clarity, and sound balance are optimal.
  • Adjust Gain Levels: Make sure your microphone input and instrument levels are balanced to prevent distortion or an overly quiet performance.

Optimize Your Internet Connection

  • Wired Connection: Whenever possible, use a wired Ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi to reduce lag.
  • Close Unnecessary Apps: Shut down background applications that may consume bandwidth, ensuring that Zoom gets priority.

By fine-tuning your Zoom settings and preparing your equipment, you can overcome many of the challenges of live online performance and be ready when it’s your moment to shine. The key is to test your setup in advance and remain flexible during your show. Happy performing!