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Equipment: I have a laptop. It comes with a webcam. I prefer the portability of a laptop so I can move from room to room. However, the logitech brand is great if you are tied to a desktop. I just suggest getting a longer cord so it can be moved depending on what activity you are coaching that student on.

Still warm up. Many students once they are on their own often forget  ot think they don't need to warm up or stretch. Ask your students what warm ups they are doing before an interview or audition.

If you have used Skype, you already know there can be a terrible delay time. Out of all of the times I have used it, less than half have had that delay time. When the video is wonkey, you can often use just the phone feature without any delay time. The quality of tone is better than what you would get with a standard speaker phone feature. There is another video program out there called Evoo. I have never downloaded this program to my pc simply because those that have downloaded it have had issues with viruses and spam. However, this program has no to little delay. Now, as far as applications go for these smart contraptions out there: There are a ton. If you have not begun using these apps in your classroom (if you have one) in conjunction with your Smart Board: GET ON IT! Not only are there piano and percussive apps, there are digital tuners, solfege apps, composing apps, etc. If you are anything like me, your students may have the latest and greatest in phones: point your students to these apps so they can pour their energy into their creativity.

If you keep a social network for your student community keep it kid friendly and set it up so former students can still feel a part of the community. Set up a nook on the site for those that have gone beyond to share their experiences. Think about including on your site proper warm ups, health tips, a friend of mine posts healthy, cheap, easy meals for her students. (I personally LOVE that idea)

Hope these few things continue to help. Have a lovely weekend!