In this episode of Prepping for the Studio, hosts Roy Silverstein and Brian Scheuble are joined by string composer and arranger, CJ Thomas, to discuss adding strings to your music.

CJ explains options ranging from experimenting with one local player and layering parts, to hiring a composer/arranger, to using sample libraries for mockups or big ensemble sounds, and why solo and quartet parts are far more convincing with live players.

He covers playability concerns like instrument range and string-friendly keys, remote recording with orchestras, and the tradeoffs of remote versus in-person sessions.

CJ outlines ways to find players, differences between concert and studio musicians, basic string techniques and colors, union considerations, and ballpark costs for different scenarios.

00:00 Welcome and Introductions

00:48 Meet CJ Thomas

03:12 Preparation and Budget

04:45 Writing Without Training

08:20 Keys and Playability

09:56 Layering Live and Samples

11:34 Why Soloists Should Be Real Players

14:55 Remote Orchestra Sessions

20:08 Finding the Right Players

22:04 Concert vs Studio Musicians

26:29 Student Players and Intonation

28:09 Advanced String Techniques

32:57 Hiring A Team

35:43 Conductors And Leaders

38:26 Composer/Arranger/Orchestrator Roles

42:07 Printed Sheet Music vs. iPads

45:17 Budgeting

48:33 Union Rules And Overtime

52:55 Layering For Big Sound

56:07 Creative Effects And Wrap

Check out CJ-

Instagram: @cjthomas_music

Website: https://cjthomasmusic.com/

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Please visit http://www.preppingforthestudio.com for more info and to download the free ebook, "A Musician's Guide To The Recording Studio".

Hosts:

Roy Silverstein of Rarefied Recording (www.rarefiedrecording.com)

and

Brian Scheuble (www.brianscheuble.com)

If you have questions, comments, or suggestions please email Roy: info@rarefiedrecording.com

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