Steel Guitar Lessons via Zoom

September 27, 2026 Update: I've got a few lessons under my belt and most everything works now. I have an issue with my internet provider, but a technician is coming out to fix it next week. So finally things are coming together after so many delays!

What You Need

Zoom setup — A minimal setup for lessons that works suprisingly well: a not-too-old laptop with built in webcam, two Bose speakers, and a Fender amp.

A fairly fast computer—for best results, Zoom recommends A quad-core 2.5GHz-or-higher processor with at least 8GB of RAM running at least Windows 10 or MacOS 10.15. A typical computer that is 5 years old or less should be fine. A fast machine that is older than that might work just fine.
A stable internet connection—a wifi connection with 25 Mbps download speed and 3–10 Mbps upload speed should work well, but you might be able get by with less. Faster speeds of 100-300mbps will provide a more hifi video connection. Using an ethernet cable usually improves the speed and stability of your connection.
Zoom—Zoom is the standard video conferencing app for music lessons and a clear choice over Skype. Go here to access the Zoom download page. It's free!
Webcam—External webcams generally outperform computer built-in cams. I've heard that the Logitech webcams in the $50-$100 range are more than adequate. It helps to have an adjustable stand for your camera. That way you can really focus in on the hands and picks during the first few lessons to make sure your basic playing mechanics are sound.
Microphone—your computer's built-in microphone will often work, but an external microphone can really enhance audio quality. USB mics such as the Blue Yeti or Fifine K669B are pretty affordable and outperform most computer built-in microphones.
Headphones/Speakers—your computer's built-in speakers may work, but spending a little on external speakers or especially decent headphones can really enhance your experience. Headphones will help suppress feedback during a Zoom lesson.

Optional Risk-Free Test Session

Zoom 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 a rate of $70 for an hour private lesson or $45 for a half-hour lesson payable via PayPal or by check if you're not comfortable with PayPal. You can schedule weekly (or every-other-week) lessons or just schedule an occasional a la carte lesson for a professional "tune-up." I'm able to give my weekly students extra attention including back-and-forth during the week, correcting of assignments, etc. There is no charge for the video call through Zoom.

Lesson Structure

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—for more see an overview of my curriculum. 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 (optional)—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. With some basic theory under your belt, you'll be able to start creating your own arrangements. (You can download my music theory primers on my download page.)

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. Note: Blues that is strongly "roots-based" is not an area I've focused on.