Creating A Stunning Presentation

If you've scheduled time to be at a recording studio and are about to record music, you need to know how to work with the studio so that you don't get kicked out and you don't ruin anything. That sounds, well, obvious. It's like going to any business, right? Not quite. Because recording studios have specific configurations for optimal acoustics, as well as a ton of expensive electronic equipment, the etiquette is a bit more involved. You'll get used to everything you have to do and watch out for, although it can seem very strict at first.

No Glitter

Do not bring anything with glitter to anywhere in the studio, even the lobby. No greeting cards with glitter, no instruments with glitter, not even eyeshadow or body spray with glitter. It doesn't matter what image you're trying to project; even musicians who appear all glammed up in videos know not to mess with glitter in a recording studio. Why? Because glitter is death to delicate recording equipment. It gets everywhere and can clog levers, windscreens, and more. It can scratch insulation. It's not good.

Ever put down a glittery greeting card and brush all the glitter off your hands, only to find a stray bit on your hands hours later, or bits of glitter on your car's seats? You do not want to subject the recording equipment to that.

Don't Touch the Microphones and Control Panels/Mixing Boards

When you record, you'll have the microphone and any music stands and headphones in a configuration that works for you. As you get ready, you may find that you want to adjust the height of the microphone or the location of the stand. Or, maybe you're listening to a bandmate while you're in the control area and suddenly get an idea that you have to tell them.

If you want to do any of this, ask the recording engineer first if it's OK if you touch these things. In most studios, moving the music stand is OK, but you should not touch the microphone for two reasons. One, it's delicate and expensive, and you don't want to knock it over by mistake or break it (seriously, don't take the chance at all). Two, the engineer will know how best to place the microphone to get the sound they need to record properly. If you want the microphone moved, the engineer can move it for you.

As for the control room equipment, such as the mixing board, microphones, and so on, you could end up changing settings that force the engineer to take more time away from your recording appointment to reset everything you messed up. Need to tell your bandmate something? Ask the engineer to turn the mic on or let you know where to stand so you can be heard.

Watch out for Clothing Sounds

Nothing will ruin your recording time faster than having rustly and noisy clothing. The microphone will pick up the sounds of the clothing easily. Before you record, change into softer materials like a cotton jersey t-shirt and sweats or jeans.

The more time you spend in recording studios, the easier it will be to remember all this. If you have questions or concerns, tell the engineer beforehand.

For more tips, contact a company like The Panhandle House.