* Frequently Asked Questions - PDF file
What kind of recording requests do you normally receive?
Mostly for graduate school auditions, summer music program auditions, competitions, and personal projects.
Where can I record?
The Chapel (preferred), Shattuck 163, Shattuck 156, and the Jazz Room (for jazz combos). Recording in Harper Hall is not advised unless no other alternative is available.
How soon must I make reservations for my recording session(s)?
At least two weeks notice is appreciated. We reserve the right to turn down late requests.
I have a deadline to meet. When is the latest I can record?
It is advised to record no later than two or three days prior to your deadline. You need to take into consideration the time needed to select the tracks you wish to use on your final completed CD as well as the time needed to edit and master your recording.
I am interested in recording. What should I do next?
How much time would I need for my recording session(s)?
Most people make reservations for two or more hours, depending on how much music is to be recorded. You may sometimes actually use less time than you had reserved.
Can I have more than one recording session?
Yes – Just make sure that your recording space of choice remains the same for the entire project.
Who will be my engineer?
Your engineer will be Larry Darling or Alvina Tan, depending on their availability at the time of your recording session. Be sure to state your preference if you have one.
Can I request a multi-track recording?
Yes – You should email us at recording@lawrence.edu with a complete list of all the instruments that will be recorded on separate tracks. You will also be charged for the time it takes to set up all equipment used for your multi-track recording.
Can I request a video recording?
Yes – We can record to DVD, VHS, or S-VHS. However, we do not provide video editing services. Lawrence students may wish to inquire with Tom Sykes at the Library Media Center for assistance with video editing. (Phone: 920-832-6757, Email: sykest@lawrence.edu)
Can I edit/splice my recording?
Yes, as long as it is not explicitly mentioned in your audition recording instructions that editing is not allowed.
What if I wish to edit/splice my recording?
A separate appointment must be made with Larry Darling (Phone: 920-832-6882, Email: darlingl@lawrence.edu) for a time to edit and master your recording in the recording studio. The editing is usually done a day or two after your recording session.
What if I do not need to edit/splice my recording?
Email us at recording@lawrence.edu with the track number(s) in the order that you wish to have included on the final completed CD(s). You will be notified by email when your CD is ready for pick-up at the Conservatory Office.
What if I need more than one CD?
We will make as many copies of your CD as requested for a charge of $2 per CD and a duplication fee of $15/hour. Always remember to keep one copy for your own records.
What if I need CD labels?
Email us at recording@lawrence.edu with all the information you would like to have included on the CD label, e.g. full name, instrument or voice type, title(s) and composer(s) of repertoire (in track list order).
How much would the recording cost?
For Lawrence students, alumni, and Academy students, the rate is $30 per hour for recording, editing, and CD mastering. This excludes the charge of $2 per CD and 5% WI state tax. You will receive an invoice with the breakdown of all recording costs.
How do I pay for my recording?
Lawrence students have the option to charge your recording cost to your student account (student ID number required) or to pay by check (payable to “Lawrence University”). All others must pay by check.
Can each member of my ensemble be billed separately?
No – One invoice will be provided for the whole ensemble. How you split the recording cost with the rest of your ensemble is entirely up to you.
When should I pay for my recording?
Full payment is due upon receipt of your final completed CD(s).
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Some Frequently Used Audio Terminology
Two-track (stereo) recording
Two microphones are placed in strategically chosen locations relative to the sound source, with both microphones recording simultaneously to provide a stereo image.
Multi-track recording
Separate tracks are assigned to each instrument or section of the ensemble. These multiple tracks can be recorded at the same or different times. In the editing process, these separate tracks can be manipulated independently. When the editing is completed, the many tracks are typically mixed down into a two-track stereo format which can then be duplicated and distributed. The multi-tracking software used in our recording studio is Digidesign® Pro Tools|HD®. While the results are more exacting than a "straight to two-track" mix, the cost is considerably higher.
VHS (Video Home System)
The most widely used analog cassette-based videotape format.
S-VHS (Super-VHS)
An analog cassette-based videotape format that captures greater luminance (picture detail) than VHS. S-VHS tapes need to be played back on an S-VHS machine instead of a regular VHS VCR.
DVD
A digital storage format. The quality of audio and video is superior to that of VHS and S-VHS.
Editing/Splicing
Modifying a recorded audio track by adding, deleting, replacing, or rearranging segments (takes).
Equalization (EQ)
The adjustment of specific frequencies (bands) to alter the tonal balance or to remove unwanted frequencies.
Mastering
The final step in the recording process that enhances and technically prepares your recording (edited or unedited) for CD replication. EQ and other sophisticated audio processing techniques are used in the mastering process. Fine-tuning adjustments are made to the overall recording to help the project attain a particular "sound" and "feel". The audio balance and levels throughout the project are maximized and smoothed out for optimum playback level. Fade-ins, fade-outs, segues, and spacing between pieces/movements are created. Pieces/movements are sequenced into the intended playing order.
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