Being in the studio can be all fun and games, but remember that it is also a workplace for some of us. Here are some rules and guidelines for a better experience for the both of us:

 

TIMELINESS

Two hours is the minimum amount of time that can be booked.

Half the hourly rate will be charged for every hour late or if the client is a no show, no call. No excuses. I run on a schedule and if you are late it backs up my entire schedule for the day.

The session starts once the session file is created or opened on the computer.

Rates will be rounded off to the next quarter of the hour.

Repeated last minute cancellations (less than 24hrs) will result in not getting priority to reschedule time.

 

THE $

Invoice and applicable fees need to be paid full before the material is handed.

Hour blocks are paid full up front.

"By songs/project" at least 50% up front.

 

Guidelines:

Do not come to the studio sick (I will send you home). Your voice changes drastically even if you blow your nose in between takes. You can not focus if you are in pain. I have the power to postpone the recording.

Food and drinks are allowed but you are responsible for cleaning after yourself and for any damage or spills.

There is absolutely no smoking in the studio. You can go outside but know that the clock keeps ticking unless I say otherwise.

 

Hourly and hour blocks do not include editing, mixing and mastering. The reason being the following: (example) Editing, mixing, and mastering takes 2-4 hours per song x 7 songs recorded = I basically worked for free.

Up to 3 revisions per song. Any more after that it becomes a "guessing game" or you might want to tweak in person/in the studio for half the hourly rate (Studio time is not free!).

 

"If you want a ten-minute mix, that’s what your album will sound like (and that’s not a good thing). If you are investing in your music, that means that you most likely want good results, so let your engineer work without you standing over their shoulder tapping your watch. No one works well that way. If you think things are taking far too long, politely ask the engineer what they’re working on, and ask for an estimate of completion. If you’re not willing to invest in your art, why should I be?" abovegroundmagazine.com

 

You may be held liable for any loss or damage to the equipment or facilities due to misuse. Accidents do happen and can be worked out but if you break something, act like an adult.

 

Recording can be frustrating if things are not sounding right or you are having an off day. Before you lose it, remember why you are there, remember all the sacrifices you've done to get to this point and what will all of this bring you.

 

Have fun.