The more everyone understands what is expected in the studio, the better the tape will turn out. Be aware that some musicians get uptight before a session - it can be a very stressful time. Just remember it's a demo - a snapshot in time of where you are right now. Studios are pretty cold places. Because we're on the other side of a glass wall, it can sometimes feel like we're sitting in judgment of your music - we aren't. The glass prevents control room sounds from leaking into the studio mikes. We have our own problems to take care of. If we hear a mistake, we'll let you know, but we aren't sitting there waiting for you to make mistakes - we make enough mistakes of our own. We're here to help you get great sound - not to judge your music or your playing.

Tip #1
Rehearse only the songs that you'll be recording for at least 2 days before the session. For clean starts, use an 8 beat count-off instead of a 4 beat count-off, with the last two beats silent. (Example: 1 2 3 4, 1 2 - - )

Tip #2
Practice the songs straight through, including intros, endings, and dynamics. Work out all your solos before you get to the studio.

Tip #3
If needed, put on new strings and drum heads at least 2 days before the session. Bring extra batteries, strings, and cables, just in case.

Tip #4
Get a good night's sleep and make sure everyone is in a good mood before the session. Don't party. A word about drugs and drinking; Some people play better when they're smashed, some don't. Check with the rest of the group to see which category you fit into. Bring friends if you feel more comfortable playing to an audience.

Tip #5
Start the songs cleanly and wait till the tape is rolling before turning up your volume (unless we've gated your instrument). Don't talk, play, or move for a count of eight after you finish a take. Wait for the last notes to die away completely. Use your volume knob to fade out at the end of a song.

Tip #6
Don't jam or play between takes or songs. Either tune up or sit quietly. Goofing off just wastes everybody's time.

Tip #7
You may have to change your normal amp settings to get a better sound on tape. Sometimes your stage settings don't work in the studio and we may have to experiment to get your sound back - even to the point of switching amps or going directly into the board, or through the SansAmp.

Tip #8
If you screw up, don't panic, but point it out. Most of the time, we can punch it in later. If one song isn't happening, forget that song and move on to another song, or we'll take a short break. Don't bother with "I'm sorry" or "I'll get it this time." You're just putting more pressure on yourself. Screwups happen. Just relax and try it again. Recording is very stressful - don't make it any harder on yourself. If you feel yourself getting tense about a song, take a break. A break after every couple of songs can help a lot. Be open to suggestions and changes. "Screw-ups" sometimes turn out great. Maybe you didn't hit the note you wanted, but the note you hit may be better.

Tip #9
After the final session, everybody usually wants a rough mix. Go ahead and enjoy it that night and the next day, then put it away. Get away from the music for a while, or you won't be able to hear clearly when you mix. Everybody should take a 2 or 3 day break (or longer) before the mixdown session to rest their ears. Listen to groups you like, and try to get a feel for their sound and their mixes.

Tip #10
Before the mixdown session, play the rough cassette (with or without the band there) and make notes on every song. Is it similar in sound to groups you like? Try to pinpoint the differences. Need more bottom on the kick? Less reverb on the vocal? Vocals too loud or soft? More edge on the bass? Move the lead guitar more to the left or right? Before you start the mixdown, we'll go over your notes and try to get the sound you want.

Tip #11
When you're mixing down, you want a finished product that's as good as any pre-recorded material. Listen to the whole song, not just your part.

That's about it. Above all, have fun. Remember, your attitude will come across on the finished product.

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Harvey Gerst is the renowned owner/engineer of Indian Trail Recording Studio in Sanger, Texas, USA.
More of Harvey's articles are available at his site.

     
Copyright © 2001 Harvey Gerst, Indian Trail Recording Studio - printed with permission