essential knowledge or skills needed to be successful in recording?

[jackmarks]

I am writing an essay for class on how to be successful in recording, and I would love to get some information or experiences from any one who would like to help!

(Don't feel like you need to answer all these questions, anything helps!)

Questions:
What would you say are the essential knowledge or skills needed to be successful in recording?

What are some essential characteristics of a successful engineer, producer, etc.?

What is something about either the music industry or the field of recording that someone on the outside might not know?

Do you have a story or personal experience related to recording that you might tell to someone outside the industry that would surprise them?

Are there any networking groups or associations of audio engineers that would be a benefit to someone new in the industry?

 

[kmetal]

People skills, and a solid understanding of finance, investment, and real estate are essential.

 

[audiokid]

• you are a good musician with an open mind
• you have played with other musicians
• you have good hearing
• you have knowledge of pro audio equipment
• thick skin
• you are a good listener
• you aren’t a control freak
• you have good communication skills

 

[Davedog]

You have to be able to organize your mind
You will need a bunch of patience
You must be willing to complete minute tasks
You need to leave your ego out of your work
You must be able to forge alliances with clients
You must realize that recording something is only that moment in time
You must be fearless
You must be kind

 

[paulears]

I firmly believe that to make excellent recordings you must have also made terrible ones, but then you learned to analyse what you produce objectively, and use that to improve the next.

 

[Paul999]

What is something about either the music industry or the field of recording that someone on the outside might not know?

The biggest point I make to clients wanting to get into any part of the music industry is that the music business is a business just like any other. It follows the same rules, regulations etc. You often hear about the big bad record companies etc. There are inequities in every business model. No one in the music business is out to get you. It is tough just like every other business is. Be good at your craft. Don't ignore any area (like money and legal advice). Generate value for your clients and you will be successful.