Observation Session @ Arlington Independent Media - Posted on 2017-01-24 by Sharon R Harmon

#laterblog

1/17/2017

After our chapter 3 discussion, Don Z. and I went over to Arlington Independent Media where they were broadcasting a radio show that he was participating in.  The booth was very small, but elegant and well-equipped.  The show was with Mr. Alex Vidales, called StageCraft, where they interview local artists and talk about the experiences performing live, and the ins and outs of building a name for yourself in the DC/MD/VA region-- though the messages are universal.  The guest was Mr. James Forté of a local DC band called the Buzz.  

I observed how the show was produced, how they cue up commercial breaks, etc. all through computer-aided software.  The mixer there Don noted is slightly different than a standard mixer, specifically designed for radio broadcast.  I was sure James was going to be in another room someplace for his live performance, but they had him right in the booth, and had a mic on his guitar and one for him to sing into-- and the sound quality was great!  The booth appeared to have soundproof glass, so assuming that helped.  Anyone coming into AIM can immediately see what's happening and who's in on the current broadcast right as you walk in.  James was nice enough to give Don Z. a copy of his record on a 45 vinyl, with standard cutout though which i thought was interesting..  Don offered to let me hear it first, but I left it in his car!  Will have to retrieve it, and give the Buzz a proper listen!

So overall a fun, educational experience! :)