The Center For Music and Arts Entrepuenership

Russell Rains, Director of the MBA Program in Digital Media Management Program at St. Edwards College in Austin TX, explains what a work for hire deal is in the context of a recording or songwriting contract, and why its beneficial for artists to control their own copyrights instead of entering into a work for hire arrangement.

Russell Rains, Director of the MBA Program in Digital Media Management at St. Edwards College in Austin TX, leads a discussion at Loyola University, New Orleans about how copyright law applies to sound recordings in the USA, how digital media and digital rights management relate to copyright, and what the future may hold. He explains what rights the purchaser of a sound recording has, why record companies love digital rights management, how Creative Commons may transform copyright law, how new technology and distribution methods are making current law obsolete, and how current events are shaping the future of copyright law.

Engineer and producer John Fischbach shares stories about the records hes made during his career, his views on modern recording and the digital age, and his advice for young people wanting to get into the industry.

Engineer and producer John Fischbach discusses his opinion that large studios (such as his Piety Street Recording Studio in New Orleans) are still relevant in todays age of digital recording. He argues that the excellence in engineering and quality of the equipment, as well as the space available for recording large groups such as choirs or orchestras make the large-format studio still necessary today.

Engineer and producer John Fischbach recounts how he came to work with Stevie Wonder in New York City. Working through his connection with producer Bob Margouleff, Fischbach explains how luck and connections play into success as an engineer and producer. His work with Carole King is also discussed.

Engineer and producer John Fischbach discusses his studio, Piety Street Studios, and what the facility has to offer. He also shares his experience with keeping the studio up and running through the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

Engineer and producer John Fischbach discusses the pros and cons of new digital technology in recording. He praises the editing capabilities of programs like Pro Tools, but expresses his preference for the superior sound of analog tape. Fischbach also gives examples of how to best use both technologies to your benefit in the studio.

Engineer and producer John Fischbach describes the complex process of mixing, including using panning and EQ as well as overall volume level. He also discusses the application of different kinds of monitor speakers in mixing.

Engineer and producer John Fischbach talks about his favorite records of yesterday and today, including Elton John, The Beatles, Metallica, and Sufjan Stevens. Fischbach explains that great records are more about the people than the technology involved, and discusses the inescapable truth of subjectivity in recording.

Engineer and producer John Fischbach discusses the endless learning process of making records. With so many variables that affect the final product, Fischbach stresses the importance of keeping an open mind and always letting your ears decide what sounds best.