The next step
T
here are many reasons why people want
to make recordings of themselves singing
or playing a musical instrument.
Some use recording as a method of
becoming a better musician – they play their
recordings back and hear the mistakes they’re
making – while others want to record songs that
they have written themselves. Whatever your
recording goals or aspirations, we’re here to
show you how to take your first steps into the
world of recording.
The great thing about technological
developments is that there are a number of ways to
record music – from using your Mac to even using
your iPhone. Gone are the days of fumbling around
in your bag for a notepad and pen to scribble down
your musical ideas – just grab your iPhone or iPadand hit Record. The tutorials that follow this one will
cover the different methods of recording piano with
different devices.
Realistically, you should open up your Mac if you
want to record the next symphony; but if you’re
looking to find your feet, look no further than your
smartphone or tablet.
When it comes to buying equipment, you
should decide whether recording is just a hobby or
a career, and spend less or more money based on
these expectations. Make sure you don’t splash the
cash on high-end equipment when you just want
to record rough ideas. We will take you through
some of the equipment solutions available for all
levels of recording.
Before you even sit down at the piano, read on for
some handy general tips on recording.Get to grips
with recording
Start recording your very first masterpiece
with an Apple Mac, iPhone or iPadTop tips for
recording
piano
01 Be consistent
For the best recording experience, use the
same software. GarageBand is available
on Mac and iOS, meaning that you have
seamless integration of your projects
regardless of where you’re working.02 Make your voice heard
Don’t want to carry around any additional
equipment? Going to record on an acoustic
piano? Don’t panic – GarageBand has a
handy Audio Recorder which utilises your
device’s built-in mic.03 Stay in tune
Make sure your piano is in tune. If you’re
using a digital piano you’ll be fine, but there
aren’t too many things that sound worse
than an out-of-tune acoustic piano.04 Become a team player
Use GarageBand for Mac to play along with
backing tracks. This will not only improve
your technique, but will help you get used
to playing with a band.05 Start with a Mac
If you’re a new pianist, gain confidence with
GarageBand on Mac before recording piano
with your iPhone or iPad – you can’t remove
mistakes from tracks after recording with
GarageBand for iOS.“You should decide whether recording is
just a hobby or a career”