The graphic design, logo, home page changes, and log/mastering instructions sheets are all filled. Now to finish the little “interludes” between a couple songs and mix the new version of “etoile filante” and I’ll let it be taken into the mastering engineer’s capable hands. I like the track sequence and all of the mixes. I’m not a mixing engineer, so I’m hoping that what I have is good enough to work with for them. The only thing that really concerns me with the mix is “Can you hear all of the parts?” and “If there is a distinct melody, is it clear?” I use EQ and panning to make sure that I am getting the clarity I want out of a mix. At times, and very sparingly unless it is for vocals or an acoustic instrument, I use compression.
Like going through design ideas, the whole thing is a process that requires a lot of patience. No one hears these songs as much as I do; I can’t tell you how many mix CDs I’ve tested on all kinds of systems – P.A. in a room with a concrete floor, a nice home theater system, a carpeted studio room, in the car, in my computer at work, with my AT headphones directly from my laptop, and even MP3s on my iPod. Half a dozen mixes for each track. Whenever I change an instrument, the song needs to be adjusted again.
All in all, it means that you are getting the best possible quality product that an amateur can produce. I take great care in what I do, because I love dealing with the details to the end that you will hear the music, not the production. At least, I try to make that experience happen for all who kindly listen to my music. I really do hope that you enjoy it. It has really been a labor of love and trying to accomplish a life-long dream: to make a recording and make it available to as many people as I can. If anything, something to give to my family and friends. Something to give to my children and grandchildren, even!

