Find answers to frequently asked questions about recording sessions. Please email Recording Services if you have additional questions.

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. The Chapel is the only venue that has video recording capabilities. Recording in Harper Hall is not advised unless no other alternative is available.

How soon must I make reservations for my recording session(s)?

The sooner the better. Availability of Conservatory spaces, especially the Chapel, can be limited. 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 encode video recordings, select the takes you wish to use on your final completed product as well as the time needed to edit and master your recording.

I am interested in recording. What should I do next?

  1. Make reservations for your recording space of choice with Claire Schmidt at the Conservatory Office. Recording Services is not responsible for making room reservations on your behalf.
  2. Make sure to have on hand all the available dates and times of each member of your ensemble to book your recording session(s). Provide alternate dates to increase the possibility that you may be accommodated. Be sure to state your preference, if necessary.
  3. Complete and submit a Recording Session Request Form.
  4. We will respond to your request by email to confirm your session(s). Your recording session(s) will be confirmed on a first come, first served basis and subject to studio and studio personnel availability.

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 Brent Hauer 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 audio recording?

Yes – You should provide us 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 video (MP4 format) in the Chapel. You will receive video files a day or two after your recording session.

Optional video editing services are available at $45 per hour. Email us to set up an appointment for video editing.

Can I edit/splice my audio 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 audio recording?

A separate appointment must be made with Brent Hauer for a time to edit and master your audio recording in the recording studio. The editing is usually done a day or two after your recording session. You should arrive prepared with your decision on all your final edits (measure numbers, track numbers, minutes and seconds) so studio time can be best spent on editing instead of deciding which takes to use.

How much would the recording cost?

Please refer to our rates here. Upon completion of your project, you will receive an invoice with the breakdown of all recording costs.

How do I pay for my recording?

You will receive an invoice and an online payment link via email. Checks (payable to “Lawrence University”) are also accepted. Lawrence students have the option to charge your recording cost to your student account (student ID number required).

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 product.