How to Post a Recording: From the Beginning

[kelly_kelly]

Hi! I never have posted a recording on this site because I don't even know how to start. Could someone give me really detailed instructions FROM THE VERY BEGINNING. By the beginning I mean from the time that you're sitting at the piano. I'm sorry that I'm so lacking in knowledge, but it would be really helpful if someone could answer this. Thanks!

[crimper]

First, the obvious...

1.) Piano

2.) Microphone (Many different types and interfaces...purchase one that is reasonably priced based on your intentions for the quality of your recordings.  Perhaps you may choose to buy an inexpensive one for experimentation)

3.) Recording device (computer is preferred or some other device that's capable of sampling a microphone)

4.) Software (for recording and compression/conversion)


Once you have a recording, most likely it is not prepared for distribution given the data size. Therefore, you must compress the audio using a popular format: MP3 is always prefered.  I recommend Audacity ( https://audacity.sourceforge.net), which is free and exhibits respectable features.

If you have a microphone that connects to your computer's audio line-in, Audacity can record and then convert to MP3.

This is hardly a detailed introduction to recording, but should provide you with a general idea of what is involved.

I hope this outline doesn't intimidate you...