Producing a great recording is both art and science.  The art is in creativity, which makes every recording different.  The science is in the basic recording process, which remains consistent in all recordings.  Below is a description of the more technical side of recording--Chain-O-Lakes Recording's standard studio services, in four stages:

Tracking is is the first part of the recording process, where each part of the music is performed and recorded--sometimes all at once, sometimes separately. In the tracking stage we want to capture a performance that is both accurate and compelling. It might take more than one "take" to complete this stage; if necessary, we can keep a performance that's "mostly good" and simply re-record, or "patch in" some of the weak spots. We continue tracking each part, one after the other, until all the parts have been recorded.

Editing is a detailed process by which all the tracks are examined for accuracy in pitch and rhythm. This is an important stage in recording, because our ears are naturally more critical of mistakes in recordings than they are in live performances. Even little inconsistencies can be a problem, and editing can help a lot.

Mixing is the process of taking these edited tracks and balancing them across the stereo listening spectrum in a way that they sound natural, complete, and appropriate to the musical style. This may involve the adding of equalization and effects such as reverb, delay, and compression.

Finally, Mastering puts the "final polish" on the mixed recording. Technically, it's about applying equalization and compression in such a way that the final recording's volume and sound is comparable to commercial recordings of the same style. Mastering brings a finality to the project, in the same way that a frame completes a painting. Sometimes artists will choose to bring their mixes to a mastering specialist--this is perfectly acceptable; but most clients of Chain-O-Lakes Recording choose to have their projects mastered here.

Each project has needs that are specific to that project.  One artist might need an accompanist or vocal coaching, another might need a three-piece horn section, another might need some help completing or arranging their original song, and still another might need practical information about making CDs. 

Whatever you need to make your project a success is available to you when you record at Chain-O-Lakes.  This studio isn't just about the equipment and the acoustics; it's about the personalized attention and support you need to shine as an artist.  For example:

Piano accompaniment can be provided by Mike Barden, who has a lifetime of performance experience accompanying at a professional level, in any style; acoustic and electric guitar are also available. If you need instrumentation outside of Mike's ability, he will find the player or players you need.

Help with composition or arranging is also available through Mike, whose graduate studies were in music composition at the University of Illinois. If you need help with anything from a simple pop song to a symphony, it is available to you.

Performance coaching can also be helpful in a recording session. Mike's background as a performer, teacher, and director can be accessed to help you bring out your best performance. Also, Monica Barden, Mike's wife is a specialist in vocal performance coaching, and is available to help if needed.

Finally, Music Business consultation is also available to you as a client of Chain-O-Lakes Recording. Many new artists have questions about things like copyright, CD manufacturing, artist websites, digital distribution, marketing, and identifying their style niche. As a full-time professional musician, Mike has years of practical experience in these areas, and is more than happy to share his experience with you. And as before, if your questions go outside of Mike's experience, he can direct you to the best resources available.