Task 3B – Multi-Track Recording

This recording is intended to be a step up in complexity and quality to that attempted in the AS unit.

Key Points

  • Mix of close-mic and DI techniques.
  • 12-24 tracks.
  • Use of overdubs.
  • Must be commercially available.
  • Research AoS 3 - The Development of Technology-based Music.
  • 20 hours work time.

Choose either: 

  • Topic A: Recording Acoustic and/or Orchestral Instruments.
  • Topic B: Recording Percussion Instruments.
    • A standard drum kit counts as one instrument 
    • Can be combined with any combination of other instruments.

Approach

  • Research ‘larger’ arrangements and suitable musicians.
  • Plan arrangement or rehearse musicians.
  • Investigate mic techniques and make recording plan.
  • Summer break.
  • Complete recording sessions.
  • Recording and mixing quality are the focus here and a creative arrangement will not add to the marks although a well-planned and musical set of performances will be quicker to record, typically require less mixing and will make success easier. 


Click here to download the Mark Scheme 

Planning your sessions

Make sure you plan well and book the studio early. This will help you to make effective use of your time and give you a chance to redo any tracks that are less than ideal.

Download your Task 3B Multitrack Recording Plan here. ​

Click here to book the studio.


Task 1

Preparation is crucial if you want a good mark here. There is much more to the assignment than pressing record. You need to research recording methods, appropriate songs and be highly organised or you will have nothing to record.
Remember max. 20 hours and you need four instruments relevant to your chosen topic; Acoustic/orchestral instruments or percussion instruments.

Produce a folder (hard copy) of research for this topic.

Topics to include:

  • List of songs listened to for initial research.
  • List of possible bands and musicians.
  • At least 3 detailed song analyses focussing on chosen instruments.
  • Recording method research for chosen instruments
  • List of equipment, mics and polar patterns needed.
  • Tracking sheet.

20 hours is not long to complete a project like this and so this research and initial production is vital.

Doing this research will allow you to give plenty of rehearsing time to the musicians and should mean you can record it before Christmas.

What to Submit and When

Folder of research as detailed above, complete with decent analyses.

Task 2

Remember the room you record in contributes as much to the capture as the mic placement will. Can you tell which recordings have been made where the room has been acoustically treated? What are the differences you can hear?
4 Sound Files to go here.