Blissman Studios, Tacoma, WA

by Wayne Bliss
(Tacoma, WA, USA)

Pre-production Tips for Recording

Whether it’s through performance or practice, most musicians spend a great deal of time developing their craft. However, you can waste time and money in the recording studio if you don’t put some effort into the pre-production process. When you’re ready to record that great demo or full length CD, here are 5 quick tips to help save you time and money in the studio:

1) If you are going to record copywrited music, make sure to secure the rights to record the music. Check out ASCAP and BMI online for more details.

2) Instead of just “winging it”, come up with actual arrangements for your tunes. Before your recording session, have a few rehearsals to work out intros, background figures, order of soloists and endings.

3) Give your instrument a “tune up”. Make sure your instrument is in good working order. Eliminate clicks, buzzes, rattles and pops that might ruin an otherwise great take. New drums heads and new strings can make a huge difference in your sound. Singers should drink plenty of water and get a good nights rest before the session.

4) Plan on recording at least 2-3 takes of each song. If the ensemble is tired of playing the 1st song, move on to the next song and then come back to it.

5) Go and check out a handful of studios before deciding where to record. Most musicians want to focus on having a great aesthetic recording experience. Take time to choose the studio and the engineer carefully! Many studios specialize in certain genres, so make sure to select one that will suit your needs and your budget.


Wayne Bliss has been a jazz bassist and audio engineer in the Seattle/Tacoma area for over 20 years and is owner of Blissman Studios, a state of the art 32 track digital facility located in Northeast Tacoma, Wayne has recorded many prominent Pacific Northwest jazz musicians. Check out his studio at www.blissmanstudios.com.