Technical Stuff!

In order to establish a two-way video and audio link, students will need the following:

-A computer with fast internet connection (DSL or Cable). This can be a laptop or a desktop machine.

-Camera and microphone. Some computers have built-in cameras and mics. If you don't have this on your machine, you will need a separate camera and microphone connected to one of the usb ports on your computer. Separate cameras exist with a built-in mic, which is most convenient. These are not very expensive items...usually they run between $60-$80 depending on the model.

Software

Free downloadable software exists to create the video/audio link-up. It's easy to use. Once set-up, there are no extra costs involved in a video teaching session.

There are several software programs that function quite well for video lessons:

SKYPE: http://www.skype.com

Which to use will depend upon simply what works best in a trial session. Programs offer full screen video with the insertion of a small second window so both parties can see each other all the time.

Pros and Cons

The Internet video link quality is limited by the upload speeds available. As a result there is a slight time lag experienced by the two linked parties. Practically speaking, this means teacher will demonstrate and student will repeat, rather than trying to play together, which is the usual fashion in Japanese music instruction.

Positioning of camera and computer with respect to the instrument is important of course. Trial and error will yield the best result. Good room lighting improves the picture quality.

Given the constraints, it is a wonderful opportunity for students anywhere in the world to get hands-on instruction in Japanese shakuhachi music, for which there are very few teachers on the internet.

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