The purpose of this study was to investigate the similarities and differences between how online instrumental music students perceive the effectiveness of e-learning as opposed to traditional face-to-face learning. The Perceived Interaction Survey was used to gather data about the perceptions of a randomly selected study group, comprised of instrumental education students at a for-profit music academy in North Carolina. Ten participants were interviewed for qualitative data. The results revealed that no significant difference exists in the effectiveness scores of face to face and online learning; and that no significant difference exists in the effectiveness scores of Skype and iChat. The qualitative interviews revealed that in traditional education, more instructor interaction and hands-on training are expected; whereas in distance education, communication software, learning through the instructor, and technology are the pertinent issues needed to be successful. The implication of the findings were discussed. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]