Before I began offering live webcam lessons in September of 2006, I spent nine months researching and testing hardware, software and service providers. In the virtual violin universe, there was no one to ask for advice or help because it appeared (at least from Google's point of view) that no one else was offering traditional private lessons in the United States via webcam on a regular basis. Since then, the webcam concept has exploded, both in terms of the sheer numbers of teachers advertising webcam lessons, and the huge improvements in quality, speed and hardware technology.

Webcam lessons are fun and easy. The webcam allows for real-time collaboration and immediate feedback, which is critically important for beginners and students who struggle with overcoming bad teaching or bad habits.

Webcam lessons work well for many students: those who live in remote areas; those who have scheduling difficulties; telecommuters or WAHMs; and students who feel like they are on a perpetual waiting list.

I accept adult students for webcam lessons without audition. Webcam lessons are offered as a courtesy to public and private elementary and secondary schools, and homeschool associations. Please see the Parents Page for information on school-age lessons.

From an environmental and financial standpoint, the webcam route leaves a much smaller carbon footprint than an in-person lesson does: no need to travel, thus saving gas, pollution, time, excess wear on your vehicle, and impulsive purchases. It's a definite win-win for students who take advantage of the opportunity.

Due to my unique experience in this area, I also do consulting, program coordination and administration for schools and other community organizations. If you are interested in setting up a webcam program, I'd be happy to help.

Video Exchange (VE) lessons are new for 2010. Students submit two eight-minute videos each week. I reply to each video with comments, suggestions and new assignments.

In addition to retaining most benefits of webcam lessons, VE lessons offer a few more worthwhile features. VE is an excellent alternative for students who have difficulty being tied to a scheduled lesson time. It is also a different way to stay focused on a specific assignment, technique, piece or process. Perhaps the best thing is that you are the boss. You control the schedule. You dictate what gets covered by the content of your video. Practice and record on your time frame. The most effective use of VE happens in conjunction with regular webcam or local lessons, to take advantage of the immediate feedback and collaborative process.