Anton B - Seattle, Washington State

Anton B
Seattle, Washington State

My name is Anton and I am in charge of a very successful recording studio here in Seattle. For the last 8 years I have had an excellent working relationship with recording connection. The main reason for this is Toni, an apprentice I was introduced to by one of their mentors, Darryl. The professionalism shown by Toni could only have been instilled by a true working professional such as Darryl. He taught her everything there was to know about studio recording. He also taught her how to work as part of a team in a busy studio. Toni worked so well in fact that as soon as her program concluded I hired her, and she has worked with me for the last 8 years. She has proven to be a valued member of my team. Thank you www.recordingconnection.com for introducing her to me.

James C - Orlando, Florida

James C.
Orlando, Florida

In my opinion recording connection is a very good way to go. Their curriculums are well done; their teachers are all real audio guys who own recording studios. It may well be true that at some time in the past they may not have been as good but their new chief academic officer is real good I hear and on top of things. This has to be one of the best and least expensive routes into the recording industry. Thank you www.recordingconnection.com for giving me this great chance.

Jonathan B. - Nashville, Tennessee

Jonathan B.
Nashville, Tennessee

I was born and bred in Nashville, Tennessee, the home of country music so it’s kind of fitting that I choose to work within the recording industry. Thanks to recording connection hopefully I will soon be working alongside some of the genres best talent. I am half way through a 6 month program which is individually tailored to suit me and my working life. The cost is a hell of a lot less than a university or college course and a lot more flexible and relevant to me. My mentor has been great. I have no problem recommending them at all. Thank you www.recordingconnection.com.

Jason G - Albuquerque, New Mexico

Jason G.
Albuquerque, New Mexico

It’s been said that now may not be the best time in which to try to get into the recording industry. Admittedly with the onset of smaller studios things may be a little lean. However, anyone with the requisite training and desire to make it can still make a living in this electrifying industry. With studios watching their wallets it is essential that studios hire the right person for the job. Thanks to recording connection that right person could easily be you. It was for me. I worked hard, listened to everything my mentor told me and studied hard. It all worked out for me, because for the last 18 months I have been working full time at the studio I was doing my mentor/ apprentice program at. What better way to get work than at the very place you train at. They know you, you know them. You work side by side with them and you take advice from them. A bond is made and when they need staff they will look at you first. I’m not saying that this will happen to everyone who enrolls with RC, but if you work hard and show enthusiasm it’s a great start. Thank you www.recordingconnection.com for helping me to work my dream.

John H. - Des Moines, Iowa

John H.
Des Moines, Iowa

I have been working in the recording industry for over 25 years now and I have yet to see a better way for people to break into this business than through recording connection. They teach the student everything from the ground up. They test and monitor the student to ensure that they have taken on board all the information and tricks of the trade that the mentor passes to him or her. University courses are all well and good but you simply do not learn all the little tricks that you would if you were doing proper hands on training with a working professional. My facilities have been used by recording connection for over 12 years now and I am honored to have them mentoring the apprentices there. Take the advice of a seasoned pro and visit www.recordingconnection.com for more details.

Mark H - Bend, Oregon

Mark H
Bend, Oregon

I have been mentoring for recording connection for over ten years now and can say with hand on heart there is no better way to get into the recording business than through RC. I like all their other mentors will ensure the trainee learns all aspects of recording, within a genuine studio setting. What they learn will place them at the front of the line as far as a studio is concerned, making them a valuable commodity. It feels me with a great sense of pride when one of my apprentices gets recruited by a top quality studio. I am proud to be mentoring for www.recordingconnection.com.

Matt Rivers - Orlando, Florida

Matt Rivers
Orlando, Florida

I have been hearing some negative comments on some forums about the mentor/ apprentice program and recording connection in particular and felt it was my place to air some of my views. It seems that people get very heated up when it comes to education and training. If people have a good experience with their particular form of training, they become very blinkered in their view of training. They will not accept that other sorts of training will actually work. And there are those who maybe had a bad experience, they are so angry and bitter that they will not only attack the system of training, but also anyone who likes this form of training. Some people go into the mentor program thinking it is a guaranteed sure fire hit to get into the studio of their dreams. They do not knuckle down and do any work, thinking that their mentor will throw job offers at them. When it doesn’t happen or doesn’t happen within their particular timescale, they attack the system and the training company. Recording connection can get you into the industry, but you also must do you bit as well and work tirelessly and diligently to succeed. Recording connection is a tool, to get you into the business; however you must be prepared to get your hands dirty. I did just that and I am thankful to www.recordingconnection.com for giving me a shot at this fantastic business.

John Briant - Lincoln, Nebraska

John Briant
Lincoln, Nebraska

I wish I had maybe been a little more focused on what I wanted when I left high school. If I had been, I probably would have gone to college / university and enrolled in a 4 year music course. But I wasn't sure of what I wanted out of life, circumstances change. So was pleased to hear that the mentor/ apprentice program at RC would allow me to learn a valuable skill within the recording industry. I’m glad I got the chance to take another bite of this apple. Thank you www.recordingconnection.com for giving me a second chance.

Jeff Bruce - Caldwell, Idaho

Jeff Bruce
Caldwell, Idaho

Thanks to the training and attention I received during my 6 month course with recording connection, I am now doing the job I love, right here in my home town. The curriculum was based around me, which was great because when my situation changed as far as my job was concerned, so did my lesson plans. If you really want to make a go at recording, I whole heartedly recommend these folks. Thank you www.recordingconnection.com.

Tanner O’Brien - San Francisco, CA

Tanner O’Brien.
San Francisco, California - Now in London, England


Thanks to the excellent training I received at Recording Connection I was able to find work at a studio of my liking after I completed my course. And because my skills and qualifications are internationally recognized that studio of my liking is in the United Kingdom. They specialize in dance music and this is perfect for me as I have always been a house music nut. I am also working with many top dance acts on their live gigs. This has included Faithless and the Ministry Of Sound. This is truly a dream come true for me. Thank you www.recordingconnection.com.

Taylor Murphy - San Diego, California

Taylor Murphy
San Diego, California

Twelve years ago I enrolled in a recording connection mentor program. The curriculum was tailored just for me. I was able to study and work around my lifestyle and free time (as I was working part time then) Everything I learned helped me do the job I now do, working in a busy studio just outside of San Diego. I have been working there ever since I finished the program. In cannot recommend recording connection highly enough for letting me do the job I most wanted to do. Thank you www.recordingconnection.com.

Marcus Dyer - Roseville, Michigan

Marcus Dyer
Roseville, Michigan


This is just a message to anyone thinking about enrolling in a recording school. Do yourself a favor and take a good look at www.recordingconnection.com if you are serious about breaking into this extremely competitive industry. While it is true that the recording industry is in a certain amount of flux and turmoil at the moment, the knowledge gained from the recording connection mentor/ apprentice program will put you in good stead and keep you a step ahead of the competition. They will teach you all you need to know about working in a studio and will even assist you in looking for your first job. All they ask of you is commitment and a burning desire to succeed. Interested? Well give them a call. You won’t regret it, I didn’t.
Thank you www.recordingconnection.com.

Robert Beck - Boston, Massachusetts

Robert Beck
Boston, Massachusetts


For twelve years I have been working at a studio in Boston, thanks to the superb training I received from recording connection. They taught me everything from the ground up and gave me the confidence to work in this electrifying field.
Thanks www.recordingconnection.com.

Simon Mayo - Portland, Oregon

Simon Mayo
Portland, Oregon

For 6 months my personal mentor, Daniel went through all facets of working in a studio. From recording the track, to promoting it. Working with a crew and talent, even basic repairs were covered. He introduced me to his work colleagues and associates and for 18 months I have been working for one of his colleagues here in Oregon. The course was first rate.
Thanks www.recordingconnection.com.

Ashley Perez - Omaha, Nebraska

Ashley Perez
Omaha, Nebraska

I just wanted to say thank you recording connection for putting me on the path to recording for a major league studio thanks to all that I learned thru your mentor program. My mentor went thru everything I needed to know about studio recording. He also taught me how to work both within a team and also on my own initiative. I also learned enough to be confident about what I am doing and when to ask if I am unsure. Once again thank you www.recordingconnection.com.

Ricky D - Albuquerque, NM

Ricky D
Albuquerque, NM

Five years ago my son Eric was running around with gangs and causing all sorts of problems. He was an 18 year old with a huge chip on his shoulder and a lot to prove. It came to a head when he was arrested helping to steal a neighbor’s car and joyriding it around town. The judge gave him a choice, sort yourself out or go to jail and seeing as he always had a love of music, my wife and I enrolled him on a recording connection. We had nothing to lose. Almost immediately he dropped his good for nothing friends and spent all day at the studio his mentor had assigned him to. He learned all sides of the recording industry, in particular making hip hop and rap music. His whole attitude did a 180 degree turn and he became the son we always knew he could be. He has never looked back and assures us that is in his past. Without recording connection we do not know where he would be right now. Thank you www.recordingconnection.com.

Anthony Peters - Omaha, Nebraska

Anthony Peters
Omaha, Nebraska

Thanks recording connection for helping me break into the recording industry. It’s well known that this is a learn by doing this industry. You learn best with hands on training rather than classroom study. Recording connection understands this and emphasize in teaching its students all aspects of working in a fully functioning studio and not in a stuffy room. This helped me to fully understand the intricate workings of a genuine recording studio. For this I am eternally grateful. Thank you www.recordingconnection.com.

Allan Partridge - Kansas City, Missouri

Allan Partridge
Kansas City, Missouri

Take my advice don’t listen to the skeptics and naysayers. If I had I would have missed out on learning so much about the recording business. As long as you are prepared to work and study hard this is the best way to get into the recording industry. Check them out and see if they can help you too. Going with them was the best decision I have ever made. Thank you www.recordingconnection.com.

Sandie Bates - Seattle, Washington

Sandie Bates
Seattle, Washington

Ever since I was a kid I’ve longed to be a DJ and thanks to radio connection that is just what I am. Spinning the latest pop tunes here in Seattle. And I feel proud that people listen to me whilst the drive or drink a Hot half fat latte from that other Seattle favorite. This certainly beats flipping burgers at the local Macky dees what I used to do. I hope that I do make a difference in people’s lives just like www.radioconnection.com made a difference in mine.

Mathew Smith - Boston, Massachusetts

Mathew Smith
Boston, Massachusetts

4 years ago I completed a mentor / apprentice program with recording connection in my home town of Boston. Since then my life has been a buzz, travelling nationwide recording concerts for many big name bands and singers. I learned so much during my six month course and it all proved to be invaluable for my career as a sound engineer. Thank you www.recordingconnection.com

Tony Vasquez - Atlanta, GA

Tony Vasquez
Atlanta, GA

2 years ago I was introduced to a young lady by the name of Kirsten. She was a student with the recording connection. For 6 months she worked alongside her mentor Jackson, myself and my recording staff. She immediately became a part of the team. She was quick to realize if she had made a mistake and tough enough to hold her ground if she felt she was right, a characteristic I like in a person. She worked hard and tirelessly, always striving to improve herself and prove herself. Well long story short, she has been working her full time for just over 18 months now and she is my right hand man or should I say woman. She has earned the teams trust and support. She knows when to delegate but has no problem getting her hands dirty, another characteristic I admire. Thank you www.recordingconnection.com for introducing me to Kirsten our queen bee.

Stella Boiz - Mobile, AL

Stella Boiz
Mobile, AL

I’m 2 months into my 6 month program with www.recordingconnection.com and I have to say, so far the experience has exceeded my expectations, by a huge margin. I am apprentice shipping at a fantastic studio in Mobile and the crew here has already made me feel like one of the family. And, no the newbie is NOT a glorified lackey. I’m working hard within the system, learning how to tame the vast array of gear before me. My mentor has been great, she is going through every aspect of the business with me and tests me regularly to make sure that I retain all the vast knowledge he is sharing with me. So once again thanks Recording Connection.

Bear Hugg - Atlanta, Georgia

Bear Hugg
Atlanta, Georgia

I have been working at a prestigious recording studio in Atlanta for 6 years now. I began as an assistant recording engineer and have worked up to become studio manager. There is a great deal of responsibility involved, from overseeing the recording of an artist’s track to hiring of staff and balancing the books. I mastered all this thanks to recording connection’s mentor program. The very first thing recording connection did was to arrange a meeting between myself and my prospective mentor, just to ensure that we would be compatible, which we were. No money was paid until I was 100% happy. My mentor explained in detail what recording connection would do for me, he also explained what was expected of me in return namely hard work and determination. He then arranged for me to work at a local recording studio 3-4 times a week. He also set me assignments that had to be completed before I could progress to the next stage. These assignments mainly involved hands on working in the studio which was fine with me as the more time I spent there the better. I was given projects to undertake and a set time in which to complete them, which is good because in the real world you will have deadlines. My mentor also introduced me to various studio bosses and key level staff within the recording industry, thus allowing me to mingle with likeminded individuals and promote myself. One of these studio bosses was the man who ultimately hired me after I completed my course. I have nothing but praise for recording connection and it’s mentors and I would have no problems recommending them to friends who wish to get into this business.

Matthew Rapp - Seattle, Washington

Matthew Rapp
Seattle, Washington

I am just about to commence my 6 month program with www.recordingconnection.com and everything appears to be going very well. I had a chat with my mentor Paul, to make sure that I was happy with him to teach me and that he was happy to train me. I will be tutoring at a very prestigious studio here in Seattle. I was concerned about the equipment I would be using, would it be up to date and relevant in today’s market? I needn’t have worried because the gear is the most state of the art I have ever seen, believe me. He also introduced me to the professionals I will be working alongside, and they seem to be a great team. They have promised to show me everything I need to know and also tell me when I screw up, which is great as I would much rather learn from my mistakes now rather than screw things up in the middle of an assignment. I will let you know how I get on in 6 months. Wish me luck and thank you www.recordingconnection.com for giving me this opportunity.

Barry King - Chicago, Illinois

Barry King
Chicago, Illinois

I just wanted to let people know how happy I am with www.recordingconnection.com. From day one communication has been great so I always know what is going on. My mentor seems like a really cool guy. He has a fantastic knowledge of the recording industry and is happy to share that knowledge with me. He’s not afraid to tell me when and where I screwed up, which is good because I would much rather know now so that I can correct it than when I’m working in a studio and make a real mess of things. The owner of the studio I am mentoring at is an acquaintance of his, so if I listen and do well there could be a job here for me. This would be ideal as I really like the way this studio operates and It’s very close to where I reside in Antioch, Chicago. My advice is check them out and make up your own mind. It works for me. Thanks recording connection.

Simon Powel - Toronto, Ontario

Simon Powel
Toronto, Ontario

My name is Simon Powel, and I run a very successful recording studio here in Toronto, Ontario. Eighteen months ago I was introduced to a young lady by the name of Kathy Winters by a friend of mine. His name is Patrick and he works as a mentor for www.recordingconnection.com. For six months she worked alongside Patrick and me, learning everything there is to know about the recording industry. She took everything on board and was very enthusiastic to learn. She went out of her way to be part of the team. He taught her everything from how to look after instruments to how to balance the books. There was a hell of a lot to take in but he explained it to her by physically showing her and having her repeat it to him and me. She picked it all up and after she completed her course I approached Patrick and Kathy and asked if she would be interested in working full time for me. She leapt at the chance, even though I explained it would be hard work and that I am quite demanding and expect 100% commitment from all my team. I knew inside though that she could more than handle it. She’s been working for me for six months now and we both couldn’t be happier. She’s my little ray of light with a good head on her shoulders. Thank you Patrick and www.recordingconnection.com for bringing her to me.

Letishia Brooks - Baldwin Hills, CA

Letishia Brooks
Baldwin Hills, CA

Ever since my son Wilson was a teen he was mixed up with gangs and always getting into trouble. Life in LA is not all palm trees and Movie stars. My husband I had tried everything to get him out of that life. We knew he had a love for music and when a friend suggested enrolling him into www.recordingconnection we thought what have we got to lose? I have to say it has been the best decision we ever made. It has given Wilson a meaningful outlet for all his energy. His mentor Bryce has been a real inspiration to him, pushing him to do better and showing him what a life outside of gangs can be like. Wilson’s attitude has completely transformed. He is no longer the moody, aggressive loose canon, but the respectful, knowledgeable young man eager to succeed. It makes me shudder to think what his life would have been like if he hadn’t begun the course, or even if he would have had a life. He now wants to be a record producer and make songs that lift people up and not drag them down into violence. Thank you www.recordingconnection.com and thank you Bryce for giving my son his life and his youth back.

Nancy Carter - Wilmington, Delaware

Nancy Carter
Wilmington, Delaware

Ever since I was injured in an automobile accident at the age of ten I have been in a wheelchair. But this never quashed my love of music and my desire to be part of an orchestra specializing in scoring for major motion pictures. Thanks to www.recordingconnection.com those dreams have come true. My personal mentor Byron has taught me everything he knows about the recording industry, and let me tell you it’s a lot. The thing is though he taught me in a way that was easy to digest. Never bombarding me with knowledge, but allowing me to learn at my own pace. He introduced me to many of his colleagues and acquaintances and even arranged auditions on my behalf. Thanks to him I am now at a major scoring studio in L.A. doing what I love, playing saxophone. Thank you, Byron and thank you www.recordingconnection.com.

Suzanne Taylor - Westchester, New York

Suzanne Taylor
Westchester, New York

Ever since I was young I have been fascinated with string instruments, so when I got the chance to study all aspects of string instruments with www.recordingconnection.com I jumped at the chance. My mentor Tobias taught me everything is to know about all string instruments, from bass to violin and everything in between. Not just how to actually play them but how to caress them into producing the very best sound. Also how to make recordings using these instruments. Everything I need to know in order to make me valued as a musician within an orchestra. He introduced me to several key players within the classical music world and things are really starting to take off for me now. I’m off to Vancouver next month as part of an orchestra, I’m so looking forward to this. Tobias is coming alomg for moral support and I hope I don’t let him down. Thank you Tobias and thank you www.recordingconnection.com.

Heather Kim - Wichita, Kansas

Heather Kim
Wichita, Kansas

2 Years ago I enrolled with www.recordingconnection.com. I wished to learn all facets of working in the recording industry. My mentor Janice taught me all aspects of working in a busy, exciting recording studio. She was a real inspiration to me. So much so that I have decided to follow in her footsteps and become a mentor. I want to help others just as she helped me. If I can be half the teacher to my students that she was to me I will be very happy, and so will my students. Thank you again Janice and thank you www.recording connection.com for inspiring me to inspire others.

David Jason - New London, Connecticut

David Jason
New London, Connecticut

I had been enrolled at another music school, here in New London: Connecticut but I felt that I was not learning what I wanted to learn. There was far too much classroom activity and little practical learning. I know that this business is a learn as you do business and that the best way to acquire knowledge is by actually doing the work, first hand. So I dropped out of that course and signed up with www.recordingconnection.com. That was 5 months ago and I have never looked back. My one on one mentor Suzanne has gone through everything I need to know in order to work successfully at a major recording studio. She has taught me to tame the mixing desk and prepping the instruments. There is so much to take in, but it never gets overly complicated because she explains everything to me in simple layman’s terms. Next week I’m working at a large busy recording studio and will be working at times with little supervision. Just to make sure that I feel comfortable working under my own initiative. I can’t wait. Thank you Suzanne and www.recordingconnection.com.

Faye Clamour - Cincinnati, Ohio

Faye Clamour
Cincinnati, Ohio

Ever since I was a kid I have wanted to play in a grand orchestra such as the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. I would love to be part of the woodwind section, playing the Oboe. Thanks to www.recordingconnection.com that is exactly what I aim to do. I even have my own personal one on one mentor Walter who will teach me all there is about being playing as part of an orchestra. He played for many years in Austria and is more than happy to share is great wealth of information and secrets with me. He has also began introducing me to many of his contacts within the classical music industry, including many from overseas. My big dream is to play in Europe. Hopefully I will, thanks to Walter and www.recordingconnection.com.

Tess King - Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Tess King
Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Ever since I was a toddler I have wanted to be part of an orchestra, especially the woodwind section. I was fascinated how a group of people, playing a multitude of different instruments could come together and create such beautiful music. I have always preferred the sound of real musical instruments rather than electronic synthesizers. Thanks to www.recordingconnection.com I hope to be playing Oboe in an internationally acclaimed orchestra very soon. The program works around my busy life (I work part time) some that’s a great help. My mentor, Paulo has gone through every aspect of working within a real orchestra and working as part of a very large team. There’s a hell of a lot of work involved, but I relish the challenge. Enrolling on this program is the best decision I have ever made. Thank you Paulo and thank you www.recordingconnection.com.

Carl Stinson - San Fransisco, CA

Carl Stinson
San Fransisco, CA

After watching a movie what sticks in your mind? The characters, your favorite scene or possibly the director’s work? To me it’s the score, you know the “background” music. To me though, it’s a lot more than just background music. It sets the scene, adds tension and In some movies is an additional character. My favorite score composer is Hans Zimmer, to me he is a musical genius and has provided some of the finest scores to many of the finest movies to be seen on the silver screen. Gladiator, The Da Vinci Code, Angles & Demons, The Last Samurai and also the recently aired HBO War time miniseries The Pacific to name but a few of his masterpieces. This man knows how to score a movie. Watch any interview of him and he comes across as highly confident, maybe even big headed, but when you hear his music you know at least he can back it up. If I could even have just a fragment of his talent I would be the happiest man alive. Thanks to www.recordingconnection.com and my personal mentor Jake I’m well on my way to working full time in a scoring studio for major motion pictures. He has taught me how to tame the mixing deck and how to use non musical objects in musical scoring. This has got to be the most productive training program I have ever been on. I have even been offered a position at a major studio that records scores for Hollywood movies, this is a dream come true. Thank you www.recordingconnection.com and thank you Mr. Zimmer for inspiring me.

Dorothy Meyer - Cranbrook, British Columbia

Dorothy Meyer
Cranbrook, British Columbia

My son Michael has always been interested in music, so much so that he started and ran a music workshop at high school. He leaves high school in a few months, and little does he know, but my husband and I have enrolled him at www.recordingconnection.com. Every parent wants the very best for their child, thanks to these people that’s exactly what he’ll get. I spoke to the course director. He has assured me that he will receive the very best tutoring money can buy. He will even have his own one-on-one mentor, who will train him in all aspects of the recording industry.

He will also introduce Michael to influential figures in the industry, who when Michael graduates will be happy to take him on permanently. His mentor will be someone who actually knows the intricacies of the business, someone on the inside. Thanks to www.recordingconnection.com this will be the best birthday present that he could ever wish for, one that will look after him for many years to come.

Paulo Pinero - Rome, NY

Paulo Pinero
Rome, NY

I have always been interested in what in the United Kingdom is simply known as house and Garage music. Indeed much of the early garage music was influenced by artists and clubs from New York City. Venues such as the legendary Studio 54 and artists such as Donna Summer and James Brown. It’s just so different from all the country, folk, metal and pop you hear on the radio. I especially like Moby and his style of Electronic music. Thanks to www.recordingconnection.com that is something I hope to be recording soon. I love Moby’s fusion of synthesizers and more traditional instruments.

My mentor Garret is teaching me everything I need to know about recording in a studio. From the choice of instrument, mixing and vocals. He has also introduced me to key figures in the recording and radio industry. I hope to connect with these individuals once I complete my course. I would eventually like to work in both the U.S and Europe, bring musical influences from both continents together. Thank you yet again www.recordingconnection.com.

Tyrell Masters - Concord, California

Tyrell Masters
Concord, California

When I was a at school, my local idol was Stanley Kirk Burrell, better known as MC Hammer. His unique music style and sheer energy were mind-blowing, not to mention those distinctive parachute pants. His rapping and hip hop vocals set the music world alight. Thanks to www.recordingconnection.com there may be another Oakland native that may be famous due to his rapping and mixing skills….Me. My mentor, Jerome is teaching me everything it takes to be a successful musician in today’s music industry. From mixing, promoting, management, even how to carry myself on stage. We worked from the ground up. There’s a lot of work involved but it’s been a lot of fun. I don’t regret taking this course for one second. Many African American and Latino men and women living in California wish to be R&B artistes, because of the prestige, power and yes, wealth, so you need to have a style that is unique and refreshing. And thanks to Jerome and wwwrecordingconnection.com I aim to be.

Adam Lewis - Aberdeen, South Dakota

Adam Lewis
Aberdeen, South Dakota

I love pop music from Madonna to the Black Eyed Peas, Phil Collins to Avril Lavern. Pop has so much kinetic energy. I’m glued to American Idol every Wednesday and Thursday night. I want to be a part of this energetic industry, and thanks to www.recordingconnection.com that’s what I intend to be a part of. Mathieu, my mentor has been teaching me all aspects of recording pop music from choice of instruments to sound mixing. I have learned to tame the mixing desk, which initially was rather daunting. I love the atmosphere of a recording studio and thanks to Mathieu’s contacts I am gaining a lot of experience in them. All close to where I live as well, so no long distance traveling for me. Plus the curriculum is tailored to my schedule, not the other way around. Thanks to their much lower costs and Sallie Mae’s financial aid I won’t be in debt for the rest of my life. That’s a major weight off my mind. Thank you www.recordingconnection.com for helping me live my dream.

Toney Grimley - White Rock, Arkansas

Toney Grimley
White Rock, Arkansas

Every since I was a little boy I have loved guitars, the sound, the feel. So when I heard www.recordingconnection.com ran courses for guitar engineers I leapt at the opportunity. To do something I truly enjoy and to get paid for it is a dream. Traveling around the globe, working for today’s top recording artists is almost too much to comprehend. My mentor Phil has many connections within the music industry and is more than happy to impart his pearls of wisdom to me, and I am happy to accept them, graciously of course. My dream gig would be to tour with The Rolling Stones and look after Keith Richards many guitars. Hell I’d do it for free. Thanks to my training, hopefully one day real soon I’ll get a call from Mr. Richards asking me to keep his guitars tuned for him during their next world tour.

Thank you www.recordingconnection.com for giving me this fantastic opportunity to live my dream.

Gareth Cooke - Birmingham, Alabama

Gareth Cooke
Birmingham, Alabama

I can imagine that many would feel somewhat intimidated when they step into a modern recording studio. The bank of mixers, switches and knobs can look quite daunting. But I love it, how each switch, slider or knob can have an effect on the whole tone of the track. Mike, my mentor from www.recordingconnection.com has arranged for me to spend a lot of time in a local recording studio, just so that I can get the feel of sound mixing in a real studio environment. I love it, the time passes far too quickly. This has given me real motivation and the hunger to survive. Country and Western is my preferred genre of music so I hope to work in Nashville. Thanks to www.recordingconnection.com I should be able to, real soon.

Russell Penn - Dayton, Ohio

Russell Penn
Dayton, Ohio

I have always had a strong interest in concerts, especially what happens behind the scenes. For example the sound engineers, I’ve always appreciated how well they do their job at these massive concerts. The artist gets all the credit, but its these guys that are the real masters out there. Thanks to www.recordingconnection.com this will soon be my dream job. Knowing that a sound engineer can make or break a concert performance is fascinating. A great performer will really appreciate his back scenes people. Last night I watched Michael Jackson’s This Is It on Blu-ray and you see just how well he looked after his guys, including his sound engineers, they were like a big family. I would love to experience that as a professional. Hopefully with all the one-on-one mentoring, genuine hands on teaching and input from real working professionals I will soon find myself in demand by the world’s top artists and can maybe feel some of the love that was so apparent from the King Of Pop.
Thanks yet again www.recordingconnection.com

Mike Vaughan - Carson City, NV

I have always been interested in music. The problem is, is that although I had an ear for music, I was not talented enough to actually play any instruments. That’s where www.recordingconnection.com comes in. They taught me all aspects of the recording industry and that’s where my talents lie. I prefer to be behind the scenes and besides, without the behind the scenes guys the album doesn’t get made. When I’m sitting behind the mixing deck I am God, maybe not but you get my meaning.

Thank you www.recordingconnection.com for giving me the opportunity to find my true calli

Jason Wharton - Miles City, Montana

Jason Wharton
Miles City, Montana

Most teenagers want to be a singer, playing in front of a huge audience. I was different, I wanted to be the sound engineer at the concert. Knowing my skills could make or break a live performance was like pure adrenaline to me. Sure, the pop, rock or country star takes all the credit and is the public face, but the sound engineers are the real hero’s here.

Thanks to www.recordingconnection.com soon that’s what I will be doing. Traveling all over the globe, working with huge stars, but my biggest dream is to own day run my own crew and have major recording stars put me on speed dial. My motivation was already pretty high, but thanks to Dwayne, my mentor I am burning to succeed. The pro tools and tailored curriculum are perfect for me. Thank you www.recordingconnection.com.

Jenny P. - Boston, Mass

Jenny P.
Boston, Mass

I was born with only partial vision, so sound played a major role in my life. Music in particular was very important to me. I was fascinated by musical instruments. The sound, but also the feel. In particular wind instruments. Fortunately I developed an acute sense of hearing and a keen musical ear. Thanks to www.recordingconnection.com I will soon turn my love of music into a career.

My mentor has passed on all her knowledge to me, and even though my vision is poor I am working part time in a recording studio on the mixing decks and also tuning musical instruments. This has given me a lot of confidence and I hope to manage my own studio soon. Thank you recordingconnection.com for giving me the confidence to pursue a career doing what I love most.

Tyrell G - Los Angeles, CA

Tyrell G (Ty G)
Los Angeles, CA Recording Connection Student

I was born and bred in South Central LA and as you know it’s a tough area to grow up in. Gangs are everywhere and hope is hard to find. But thanks to www.recordingconnection.com its within my reach. I’m your stereotypical young African American who listens to hip hop and rap, so when I found out that recordingconnection could help me to get into the recording industry I jumped at the chance.

Thanks to Jerome, my mentor I have learned to record tracks with a more positive influence, instead of the negativity that is always being pushed down our children’s throats. I’m learning all aspects of the recording industry, from writing, thru programming to editing and marketing. I met people from Def Jam recording label last month and they were very helpful. Giving me loads of solid advice. Thanks yet again recordingconnection.

Darren M. - Emporia, KS

Darren M.
Recording Connection Student from Emporia, KS

I have always been fascinated by music and its production, but unfortunately our school was rather limited in its music curriculum. Thanks to www.recordingconnection.com I’m about to fulfill my dream of being a music producer just like my idol Timbaland. My curriculum is flexible and tailored to suit me. I work at my pace. I thrive off my mentor’s enthusiasm. I feel right at home whenever I’m in a recording studio.

With my mentors help I have been producing, editing and mixing my own music. We plan to audition this to various record companies over the next couple of months or so. Thank you recordingconnection, I couldn’t have done it without you.

Annie Rivera - Tulsa, Oklahoma

Annie Rivera
Recording Connection Student - Tulsa, Oklahoma

There's this song playing on the radio a lot now. "Wake up in the morning feeling like P. Diddy", so the first line goes. Now, a lot of us might think, why would you want to wake up in the morning feeling like P. Diddy? But you know what, I kinda do. He is, after all, one hell of a music producer.

Being a music producer means being behind the process of producing, recording, and distributing music to anyone beyond the music studio. When you think about it, you actually get to decide what people hear. With every change, every critique, every discussion, every pitch lowered or raised, that's you deciding, ìOkay, people should hear this.î

But it was also said that with great power comes great responsibility. Just because you're the guy fiddling with the knobs in the recording studio, doesn't mean that you get what you want all the time. Though you get to decide just what listeners get to hear and how, you have to make sure that they're going to like it too. It's something that they'll want to listen to over and over again. Something they'd be willing to save in their ipods and play while on the commute to work.

It's not just about huddling in the station and laying down some tracks, you've got to make sure you've got something, that recording connection that clicks with the listeners. Being a music producer doesn't mean anything if you are not able to produce music people would love.

Penelope Walker - Detroit, Michigan

Penelope Walker
Detroit, Michigan Recording Connection Student

Karaoke has got to be one of my most favorite things from the list of brilliant innovations from the Japanese. And that's quite a long list! It's like having our very own concert, and our family and friends are our fans.

Of course, for me, that was about a decade ago. And because of the love for music that karaoke has helped instill in me, I've gotten the courage to go out and work to making a name for myself in the recording industry. But this time, I've gone from behind the microphone to behind the stage.

There's nothing like the adrenaline rush of being at a live concert. Aside from getting to see your favorite musical acts, there's a certain excitement to live events that can't be paralleled elsewhere. Since it's live, there's no way to cut, cover, and edit certain mistakes. And you either go down sinking in embarrassment, or you work your way through them and not let those gaffes get the best of you. You've got to always think on your toes.

Still, there's a pressure when you're the one working the sounds for these events. No matter how great the musical act is, if you screw up with your equipment, you'll destroy that greatness. And you'll have a talented act humiliated and an audience disappointed and most like frustrated. It's your responsibility to give the concert audience the recording connection to greatly experience the music they love from their speakers at home to the live concert stage.

Ryan Allen - Richmond, Virginia

Ryan Allen
Richmond, Virginia Recording Connection Student

To be honest, I never really figured out just how tough it is to be in the recording industry. I mean, it's tough enough to even get in. Unless you know someone who could get your foot in the door, or at the very least show you which doors are worth knocking, you're pretty set to suffer through a considerable amount of setbacks.

But that's not all, there's a lot of work to be done to stay in this business. And with so much work just to get in, you can bet I'm not going to let it go that easily.

Determination is not going to be enough, I'm going to need to learn a lot. Choosing the artist with a sound you know the rest of country, or even the world, would appreciate hearing, there's an art to that. A lot of musical acts sounds so similar these days, you've got to have talent to be able to know who can stand out. But it's not just talent too. It's a lot of technical work. All these equipment, these software, they can help you take what was a good record into an excellent one.

Being a music producer, a successful one at that, it's not that easy. But to be able to work with music and make something short of magical with it, nothing compares. And I'm definitely going to study hard so that I get that recording connection that will one day get me that number 1 record, or that Grammy Award winning single.

Andrea Taylor - Chicago, Illinois

Andrea Taylor
Chicago, Illinois Recording Connection Student

You know what they say. In show business, it's not always what you know, it's who you know. Actually, grammarians would says it's whom you know, but I think the point is clear.

To make it big in the recording business, talent can only get you so far. I'm sure there are a lot more talented people out there without a recording contract. And unless they luck out in American Idol, it will be a while before they even come close to one. They might not even get one. I guess that's not a particularly happy though, but hey, that's the truth.

Still, with enough talent and determination, one could go a long way. Think of Taylor Swift for example. She went knocking at the doors of record executives, getting them to listen to her demo. She refused contracts that won't let her sings songs she composed herself.

We should think they way she thought, though I guess the novelty of knocking door-to-door would have run out. But her determination, and her confidence in herself, that should inspire us to go after what we want. Find whatever it is that could help us achieve our dreams. We all need that recording connection to know that are dreams are always possible.

Aaron Baker - Long Beach, California

Aaron Baker
Long Beach, California - Recording Connection Student

Hip-hop may get a lot of people scoffing and snickering. And to a point, I kinda get where they're coming from. The lyrics are hilarious, the beats can sound the same after a while, and people get way too distracted with the baggy shirts and all that bling.

But see, that's the challenge with being involved in hip-hop, how to make it different but still appeal to the listeners. You've got to come up with a beat that's not to different that people won't like it, but something different still stands out from the rest. Something that won't get lost in the shuffle of thousands of hip-hop songs.

And no matter what, hip-hop done right will always sell.

I can't really do hip-hop, as they would say. I'm too white to rap, I guess you can say that. But I like working behind the scenes, getting to work on making a song work. It's not just about rapping and coming up with the words and the beats. You're gonna need that recording connection to mesh those things together to come up with the next hit. And pretty soon, the next hit just might be something I produced. I'm getting close to doing that.

Alice Fisher - Dallas, TX

Alice Fisher
Dallas, TX Recording Connection

I'm gonna go and try to not sound preachy at all, but I must say, considering that I want to be involved with Christian music and getting to share to everyone the good news of the Lord through songs, I might be. Just a tad, I promise.

God can inspire a lot of people in so many ways, and music is one of them. There are so many ways to connect to the Lord through songs, whether you're praising Him, thanking Him, asking for forgiveness, or asking for help in your problems, a lot of these can be addressed to different songs. And you have to admit, it's easy to be inspired and be moved even by just one song.

Still, despite our greatest intentions to move and inspire people with music, we still need to learn the ins and outs of a recording studio. We still need an understanding of what goes on with making an album and getting it out there. It's not just about the songs and the inspiration, there's a lot more hard work that goes into it as well. And that is what I'm getting here, that recording connection that gives me the perfect blend of inspiration and technical know-how to be able to touch people through music. You can't ask for more than that, right?