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Technical Stuff!
In order to establish a two-way video and audio link with Yoko, 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 between Yoko and yourself. Once set-up, there are no extra costs involved in a video teaching session.
We have found at least two software programs that function quite well for video lessons:
SKYPE: http://www.skype.com/helloagain.html
SIGHTSPEED: http://www.sightspeed.com/
Which to use will depend upon simply what works best in a trial session. Both 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.
Given the constraints, it is a wonderful opportunity for students anywhere in the world to get hands-on instruction in Japanese string instruments, for which there are very few teachers using English language.
Internet Lessons
Yoko Hiraoka is offering lessons for shamisen, koto and five string Chikuzen biwa via the internet, in both English or Japanese. Students will need to have a functioning instrument with the appropriate bachi (plectrum) or finger picks (for koto).Yoko will offer both beginner and intermediate classes. Beginners will be introduced to the very basics of the instrument:
*Describing the components of the instrument
*Holding the instrument correctly
*Basic tunings
*Basic techniques
*History of the instrument and its music genres
*Caring for the instrument and string replacement
*Japanese traditional music notation and simple compositions
*Beginning vocal
Intermediate students will work with Yoko to review their history and establish a beginning point for studies. Yoko teaches Jiuta shamisen, Ikuta-ryu koto and Chikuzen biwa at all levels, from total beginner onwards.
Lesson Costs
Instrument lessons are $38.00 per hour, payable in advance via Paypal, or by personal cheque or money order.
For those not familiar with Paypal, it is a simple to use internet payment service which enables users to pay for goods and services using a credit card or bank account.
Yoko will provide her Paypal payment address upon request.
Generally music students benefit most from having weekly lessons.
Please contact David Sawyer for further information: david@japanshakuhachi.com
303-666-5581
