What if you don't live in my town?

If you can’t come to my studio, you can still benefit from my approach to teaching music. Using audio clips, video clips, skype and other technologies students can get instruction, feedback and coaching regarding technique, musicality, improvisation, arranging, composition, and creative expression.

Of course, the key challenge in this approach is communicating through technology. If students have the capability to set up a computer and video camera near the piano or keyboard and are comfortable using skype or other computer-based video tools, online lessons can be very rewarding.

There are three basic options, which are explained below.

Using Skype

Skype lessons are the closest thing to a traditional "live lesson", allowing the student to play for the teacher and the teacher to play for the student in real time. Conversation and demonstrations are no problem!  See how this works in the sidebar to the right.

Using Video

This option also requires the use of a video camera and computer. The difference is that there is no appointment, no need to use Skype, and no need to be able to record and watch video at the same time.

If students prefer, they can record themselves playing songs or scales and send the video to the teacher. They can request specific or just general feedback. The teacher reviews the video, provides feedback via video, and recommends activities to improve performance.

Using Audio
This option requires students to make an audio recording of themselves and then forward the clip to the teacher. Although sound alone offers many teaching and learning possibilities, there are disadvantages to this approach. Primarily, the teacher cannot watch the student perform and so cannot give feedback on technique. Also, without video feedback the student is not be able to benefit from watching the teacher demonstrate.

One possible solution to this challenge: If the student does not have the capacity to create a video but can easily watch a video on the computer, the teacher can provide feedback via video even if the student sends only an audio file.

For additional details on how video and audio file sharing works, see the side bar to the right.

Skype Lessons: How it works

  1. The student needs a skype account and skype ID
  2. The student needs a computer with video camera (a laptop or tablet is ideal) which must be set up near the keyboard instrument. The goal is for both student and teacher to hear and see while the other is playing.
  3. The student completes the online registration and payment process. During this time, the teacher and student set up dates and times for the lessons.
  4. At the lesson time, both student and teacher log into skype using their skype ID's. The teacher can now listen to and watch the student, and provide instruction and feedback,  just like they were in the same room.

Video and Audio Lessons: How it works

  1. The student must be able to record video or audio in a format that can be send over the internet
  2. The student uploads the recording to a site like SkyDrive or Dropbox and shares a link with the teacher
  3. The teacher posts feedback the same way.




For more information on lesson packages and pricing, click below.

What happens during lessons?

Just like traditional lesson, online lessons can include a range of instructional styles and tools:
  • Direct Instruction
  • Coaching
  • Targeted Drills
  • Projects, like writing or arranging a song
  • Games that reinforce musical concepts
  • Improvisation
  • Composition
  • Electronic keyboards, drum beats and inspiring sounds
  • Computer software
  • Workbooks

Assessments and questionnaires help me get to know you, your goals and musical preferences. Then I collaborate with you on creating a unique plan to achieve your musical dreams.

Extension activities can extend the learning as well. See lab time for more details.