April 2015 – A Symphonic Composer Reflects

I woke up on recording day (Wednesday, April 15th) with a sore throat of symphonic proportions. I had slept maybe two hours, a combination of my cold and general insomnia. After I popped open a green juice, out we went from our East Village nook to the big recording space in midtown – Avatar Studios

I knew that I’d run on adrenaline, but what I didn’t realize was how cloudy my brain would be. I absolutely enjoyed the day, but sort of like through a window (literally and mentally). THANKFULLY, my session producer/2nd orchestrator/librarian extraordinaire Mitchell McCarthy and recording engineer Myles Rodenhouse had command of the vessel, and with the mastery of conductor Harrison Hollingsworth, it was pretty much smooth sailing – – except for a minor miracle…

the amazing Bridget Kibbey

recording engineer/mixer Myles Rodenhouse checking mic placement

About that minor (or not so minor) miracle: given its complexity, we had budgeted extra time for the first movement. What we weren’t expecting was how difficult a section of Movement 2 entailed: a tricky orchestration of flute, clarinet and harp that needed some extra TLC. Our players finally nailed it after the lunch break, but with 70% of our time expended (due to many factors, not just this one), we still had movements 3 and 4 left to record!!

But it all came together: the players hit their sweet spot, Harrison/Mitch/Myles shined in their roles, and prayers were answered as all of a sudden we were back on track due to almost-perfect takes of Movements 3 & 4. What a relief!

Stay tuned for more as this is just one reflection having freshly come out of the most exciting day of my artistic life! The only major element was that orchestraor Andres Soto was missing – BUT – he was also going pro with the premiere of a piece for the Costa Rican National Symphony Orchestra!!