I have been trying to record a track for a client for a week now. I have been in the midst of trying new setups to maximize my cello’s sound. I thought I had everything in place, but when I went to record, I was wrong. I first heard mysterious clicking sounds in my headphones. Next, the sound of static was too high. Then I started getting a “sample conversion rate” error message.
I was panicked. I tried to push through it, using different equipment. It only made it worse.
Hitting Restart
Thankfully, this recording project is for an album that is not due out until after the New Year. Unlike some of the films I have recorded that have a 24-hour turnaround, this client has time.
I finally calmed down enough to realize this and decide to use this experience to really fine-tune my system. This has involved moving around equipment, updating my operating system in multiple computers and device firmware, and all kinds of other techie things I have been putting off for months in fear that I would interrupt my creative output. Already halted to due blips and beeps, I took the time to contact support (many times), ask my husband lots of questions, learn about the different knobs and settings I used to avoid touching, and empower myself to better understand.
I wish I could say that everything is now working. It isn’t — yet. But, my shift in deciding to transform my experience from one of frustration into one of learning will serve me well in future challenging situations. For that I am thankful.
Ms. Dewberry, an accomplished cellist, completed her DMA in Chamber Music Performance from UCLA in December 2005. She received her MM in Cello Performance from UCLA in June 2002 and her B.M. in Cello Performance from Western Michigan University in April 1998. She also holds a B.A. in French with a minor in Women's Studies and Philosophy.
Her website is www.carterdewberry.com
