CASA - the contemporary a cappella society

Enter the Matrix

Written by Freddie Feldman

Sunday, 14 August 2005

Staying on top of your project's status will be key to making sure you get it done on time and on budget. If you don't know where you are at a glance, you might miss something that could potentially throw you off later. Most of the groups I produce use my "Project Matrix" to make sure they stay on track. Don't depend on your producer/mixer to know where you are in the tracking or mixing process. Chances are he's got a lot going on and questions like "Hey, did we track the Baritone part on Song X yet?" are not really productive for the producer/mixer.

Let's look at an example of the Project Matrix:

Let's look at the "Tracking" part of the matrix first. You can see that songs are listed across the top and parts are listed down the side. Simply "X" or check-off parts as you record them. If there doesn't happen to be an Alto 2 part on a song, then just put a "N/A" (Not Applicable) in the space.

Now for the "Mixing" part of the matrix. The way I work with mixing is that I do "Drafts" or revisions on the mix. I'll do a mix, send the group a Draft, they send me notes, then I make revisions and...repeat. It helps to keep track of where you are with each Draft. Simply check off each Draft as you do them. You could even put different markings in those boxes, like "L" for listened, "N" for Notes, "X" for Done.

These are only small notes you need to take during your sessions. It's takes a couple of seconds to keep this sheet up to date, but it will save you time and money in the long run. Always make sure you bring this sheet to your tracking sessions.

Now that you're entered The Matrix, your life in the studio will be completely different! Use your new powers of recording project management wisely!
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