A couple of weeks ago, I got a call from the director of the performing arts
academy that we are involved with in our area. She knows us because Belle
takes guitar under the umbrella of that academy, and through dealings with our
family is aware that the girls sing with the NCC. A woman in the Nashville
music industry had called her and was looking for young vocal talent for an
upcoming recording session, and our director friend wanted to pass along our
contact information. "Well, sure!"
Just a week ago the girls auditioned at
OxVision Studios in
Hermitage. We at that point met Donna Oxley, and after the audition, we met her
husband Dan who is a professional trumpet player as well as owner of one of the
largest in-home studios in the Nashville area. Both were warm and kind,
and the girls made a great first impression and were hired on the spot.
One week later, the girls had their first experience in a recording session at
Bobby Shin's studio. It was from noon until three in the afternoon, and it was very cool and
interesting--and also a lot of work.
First impressions--wow, this guy has worked with some well-known folks.
Lots of Michael W. Smith and Steven Curtis Chapman albums around as well.
LOL I have no idea who this is or why this badge was hanging on
the railing...but I thought I'd take a picture anyway. :)
This is one of those "who knew?" pictures. Apparently sound
dampeners are needed even--especially?--in the bathroom across the hall from the studio. Ha ha!
Places please:
Bobby and Grace help get the kids set up with headphones.
The girls work alone on a crazy high soprano part.
In three hours, the kids were expected to learn two songs (both the
main melodies and harmonies) and then nail them perfectly for
recording. Miss Donna was great at making sure that
happened. She is a patient lady.
Taking time to warm the kids up beforehand.
Here is a group shot taken after recording. Bobby Shin and
Donna Oxley on the left of the group, and Marc Byrd and Andrew
Thompson of Hammock are on the far right. Only after this
picture was taken and right before we left did we meet these artists
behind the project. If you want to learn more about Hammock,
click
HERE
for their Wiki page and
HERE for
their band page.
Afterward, Bobby let the kids listen to one of the pieces that they
worked on.
I got a video of it (of course). Here it is:
The girls had a great time...and made their first bit of money from an
opportunity in Music City!
