Introduction
Private saxophone lessons normally involve the pupil going to the teacher's house/studio or the teacher going to the pupil's house/practice room.
This can lead to all sorts of logistical problems (getting to and from each others homes in all seasons and climates, enough room to fit two people and saxes, parking, ambient noise levels, personal safety, time of the lesson, relying on public transport or friends/relatives "lifts", anxiousness, etc.).
The solution is the use of modern technology using a computer, a good webcam, and the free video conferencing service, Skype.
** Skype have now released a new, FREE app for the iPad2 enabling lessons to now be available using Apple's world-leading tablet **
Ian Smith's extensive professional experience can now be shared over the internet with one-to-one lessons from 30-45 minutes in duration. The structure of the lesson is dependent upon the pupil - be it to prepare for an audition or examination, improve upon skill level from Intermediate to Advanced or from Beginner to Intermediate.
The lesson is conducted exactly as if the pupil is in their own home/practice room with clear, real-time instruction face to face using the technology of Skype.
There is ABSOLUTELY NO DIFFERENCE in the learning process apart from the convenience of not having to "get to and from" somewhere.
The pupil can be anywhere in the world!
** Please Note **
Lessons currently cost £15 (GBP) for 30 minutes or £22.50 (GBP) for 45 minutes.
Payment is made in advance via PayPal for up to 6 lessons at a time.
For example £90 (GBP) for 6 x 30 minute lessons.
The first, introductory 20 minute lesson/assessment is free.
This gives the pupil enough time to make sure that their computer/webcam/Skype connections are working well and that this lesson environment is suited to their requirements.
... Ian Smith
Ian Smith has been a professional musician for over 25 years and has been involved in a variety of musicial idioms.
From backing international artists (including icons such as Barry Manilow, Sister Sledge, Gladys Knight, The Four Tops, The Temptations, Buddy Greco, Roger Daltrey, The Three Degrees and The Supremes) to playing on many of London's West End shows with "Chicago", "City of Angels" and "West Side Story" to name but a few.
In addition, Ian has worked extensively with the Royal Shakespeare Company on productions such as "The Winters' Tale", "Pericles", "Timon of Athens", "Secret Garden" and can be heard on the recent RSC CD "John Woolf & Friends".
Other recording credits include ITV1's "X Factor" and numerous BBC Radio and Television projects along with innumerable independent works.