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Interview with Fran About Producing The Studio
A brief interview with Fran regarding his production work:
Q. How do you work as a producer?
F. So much depends on the artist...is it their first time in the studio, do they want direction or just reliable ears they can trust, does their material need fine tuning [or a chainsaw], are they confident, "first take" kind of folks or do they need to work in a more layered style? So many variations.
I tend to work in as "hands off" a manner as I can...I mean...it's the artist's work that needs to shine and be brought out, not my "stamp" or signature. So I usually begin by listening to what they do "live" to get a sense of what they can do, then move from there. We talk through the material, get a concept or overall perspective, then determine what direction we will go taking into account all the other factors involved...time, budget, etc.
Q. What's the most challenging part of the recording process?
F. For most people it tends to be getting an exciting, "live" sounding performance in a studio setting. It's amazing how many first or second takes of tracks are the best, especially for bands that play together a lot, or solo artists that gig consistently. Sometimes, as they begin to finesse things, the feel changes somewhat, and often the original spark that was there is diminished. So it's really important to have a producer and engineer who are ready to go before the artist is...and to capture those first few takes. The producer's call then, is to weigh the things that are not so great in those early takes and could be done better in overdubs or another take, against the energy and feel that might have real magic. And then to get the artist to hear and recognize those and decide, quickly, jointly, whether it's time to do another take or keep what's there and clean things up as necessary. Because there is a finite energy when it comes to recording.. a skilled producer needs to know an artist's limits...and when to say "I think you've got a better one in you." Or...when to break out Nunzilla.
Q. What's the most rewarding part of recording?
F. Being part of the creative process...helping artists go beyond what they thought they could accomplish...seeing the look on their face when they listen back to something that touches them deeply. Laughing with joy at a truly incredible performance that someone has just done...these moments are pure.
Q. Can you sum up your philosophy as a producer?
F. Very simply, I would use "midwife" as a metaphor. The midwife has a relationship with the person who's doing the birthing...guiding them through the difficult, painful parts, helping them learn to push themselves...not pushing for them, and helping to create a safe, relaxed environment with the best support staff possible so that the artist, in this case, can give birth to something they will be thankful for, proud of...something that is representative of the very best they can offer. To then share in and celebrate the joy and, most importantly, recognize that you [the producer] are just a helpmate in this project...it's the artist, the process and the finished recording that ultimately must walk out on their own.
At Teerivane [teer- ih- vahn] our goal is simple: help our clients achieve the dream they walk in the door with...and more. We recognize that each client/artist is unique, with varied needs, experience, expectations, skill level, hopes, and budget. We want our clients to have a fulfilling, comfortable, exciting and rewarding time while working on their projects. Our experienced staff and thoughtfully designed studio space combine to create an environment that instills confidence and inspires creativity and productivity, in the midst of some of the most beautiful scenery in the country.
Studio owner and producer Fran McKendree has been in the music business for over 35 years. He was a founding member of the innovative group McKendree Spring [whom the late Bill Graham called "one of the best unknown bands in the world!"] and continues to write, perform, design and lead workshops, as well as engineering and producing recordings of his work and that of other artists.
Having been on both sides of the glass [artist, producer and engineer] with a passion and deep love of the creative process, he brings to Teerivane a wealth of experience and the ability to bring out the best in artists, specializing in the acoustic music genre. The musicians and engineers Fran chooses to bring in on projects have years of experience working with the some of the best artists in the business, and help create a "can do" atmosphere of support and skill that nurtures and enhances each project... in a relaxed environment where spontaneity and "feel" are honored.
Teerivane's recording/editing and monitoring equipment is state of the art; hard disk...reliable, great sounding and fast. We have a quality selection of microphones and other gear and a quick, affordable and reliable rental service if we don't have the particular piece of gear you'd like.
Our rates are reasonable and competitive, with block booking discounts available. We have an arranger who can write charts quickly and accurately. We can also guide your project all the way through the mastering and manufacturing process through our partnership with world class mastering and duplication facilities. We have a very creative graphic designer who can do wonders with artwork.
We believe in having fun while working, too... there are beautiful lakes, waterfalls and hiking trails in the surrounding area, in fact you can walk out of the studio and directly into the woods when it's time for a break. Accommodations, reasonably priced, are available in nearby Hendersonville, with many B&B's and hotels to choose from within 15 minutes drive of the studio. Special, discounted rates may be available to clients, depending on the length of stay and time of year.
We will never let you walk away dissatisfied...we believe that every project deserves the absolute best we can bring to it. Our commitment to you is to never settle for something that is not the best work you, and we, can do at the time.
For further information about Teerivane's availability, or to speak with Fran regarding his production work at Teerivane or other studios, please call or email our office/studio manager, Nancy Clark: 828-658-1527 nancyclark@franmckendree.com.
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©Copyright 2008 Fran McKendree
Design by Wendy Leaumont Graphic Design