Recording Session Observation - July 9, 2016 - Posted on 2016-07-11 by Mike Bergan

This marked a particularly exciting day in my studies as it was the first time I had the oportunity to observe an actual recording session from start to finish.

I arived early to watch the musicians set up their instruments in the studio (base, drums and keyboards), The drums, of course, took the most time. After everyone was done, George, my mentor, hooked up the direct injection boxes (no amps were used) and placed the microphones for the drums.

The band performed the song they wanted recorded (a lively song with the vocals in Spanish) and many takes were done to get it just right. After the basic song was completed, additional keyboard and saxaphone parts were performed and added as additional tracks. )They debated whether it would be best to use a click track and, ultimately, decided against it.) The vocals were then sung (this involved several takes) and incorporated into the song. It was decided that a rhythm guitar would be recorded and added later. It was interesting seeing George initially set the recording levels, record the tracks and edit them. Pro Tools HD was used.

II was thrilled to have had the experience of seeing a formal recording take place and look forward to hearing the finished product after it is mixed.