Once the technology was in place, artists began experimenting with the possibilities. For example, one artist mounted a digital video camera to his helmet so that online audiences could see the artist s perspective while performing. SomArts streamed the live performance of a Mongolian band that sang in their original language for the benefit of their online fans in Mongolia, truly making the offline and online experience a multicultural event. If your organization has a limited budget, begin by webcasting one event or begin by choosing to stream audio files instead of the more difficult video files. Utilize the vast amount of free information on the Web.
Users can learn from many free online tutorials as well.
For smaller organizations, explore partnerships with community media centers that often have the video facilities and technology to record and digitize performances. Research the legal issues regarding streaming artists performances to determine your copyright procedures. The contract for artists who perform on the Kennedy Center s Millennium Stage includes a clause that articulates the copyright procedures. For more information, visit Open Studio s Copyright Resources . Survey your audience to determine their interest.