Steel Guitar Lessons

Thanks to an evolving Internet, I can now offer private steel lessons anywhere in the world to folks with the basic Skype video chat setup on their personal computer! I gave my first lesson on September 16, 2009 and it was awesome with relatively few glitches.

What You Need

  • A fairly fast computer. I have a 2 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo Mac that is over two years old. It works fine.
  • The free Skype software package -- go to Skype.com to access the download page and how-to info.
  • A webcam. I have a built-in webcam on my Macbook that works well. I've heard that the Logitech webcams for around $100 are more than adequate. It helps to have an adjustable stand. That way you can really focus in on the hands and picks during the first few lessons to make sure the basic playing mechanics are sound.
  • A decent broadband connection. Skype recommends 384 kbps upload speed for clear video.

Risk-Free Test Session

Skype offers free video calling and the package is well-designed and easy to use. If you're considering taking lessons, you can schedule a free test session to make sure the connection works as advertised before committing to lessons. Just email me or get in touch using my Guestbook and we can set something up.

Rates

I'm currently charging $30/hour for private lessons payable via PayPal. You can schedule weekly lessons, paying by the month. Or, just schedule an occasional a la carte lesson for a professional "tune-up." There is no charge for the video call through Skype.

Lesson Plan

Lessons have a flow to them that depends a lot on the student's temperament and playing level. And this can vary depending on what the immediate goal is. However, on average, a typical lesson will include the following:

  • Technique -- A short 5-10 minute stretch to monitor problems with picking and bar motions that have creeped in since the last lesson. Another few minutes are given to some written out technical exercise, such as scales, harmonized scales, harmonics, arpeggios that usually cycle through a number of keys.
  • Playing Project -- The current tune or exercise that is the prime focus of practice during the prior week or other time period. Music is written out in both standard notation and tablature.
  • Music Theory -- A few minutes or longer to focus on some aspect of the current playing project. Theory can help you organize your thinking and speed up your learning.

I will gear the overall structure of lessons to your short-term and long-term musical goals. You may be primarily interested in country music, western swing and jazz, Hawaiian music, blues, or all of the above.