When I first started mixing, I was always using a top-down approach, even though I didn’t know it had a name. That’s probably what you’re doing too. However, I’ve found that mixing bottom-up is incredibly beneficial and can change your perspective on balance and blend. Personally, I use a hybrid approach, but understanding the bottom-up method will revolutionize your mixing process. In this post, I’ll explain what these approaches are and why they’re important.
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When you first start writing music, you probably explore the major and minor scales. While these scales are foundational, there are other musical modes that can bring a fresh and unique flavor to your compositions. Many hit songs are written using these modes, and exploring them can open up new creative possibilities. Here’s a list of the different musical modes, along with their interval patterns and some thoughts on each one.
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Mix preparation, often referred to as mix prep, is a fundamental step in the audio production process. It involves organizing and optimizing your session before diving into the actual mixing, laying the groundwork for a smooth and efficient workflow. These pro tips will help you get your mix sessions prepped like a professional. Remember, you’re reading this because you’re dedicated to improving your skills—so feel great about yourself!
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When I first learned about the three dimensions of mixing, it was an “aha” moment that transformed my understanding of audio production. You’ll have several of these enlightening moments on your journey to mastering the art of recording and mixing your own music. This concept was first introduced to me through David Gibson’s insightful book, The Art of Mixing. If you’re interested in diving deeper into this approach, I highly recommend checking out his book on Amazon, where you’ll find invaluable insights and practical techniques that can elevate your mixing skills (disclaimer: as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases).
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I vividly remember the excitement and validation I felt when I received my first royalty check for a sync deal I landed with CBS. It was for a track that made its way into a popular TV show, and the initial upfront sync fee was thrilling on its own. But that was just the beginning. The deal also generated performance royalties from the episode’s airings, and another sync fee came in when the show was released on DVD.
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