This is non-political, so skip if you don't like that sort of thing.
Some of you may know that among my hobbies is piano composing. In fact, you can find some really old recordings of mine here. (That page is a bit broken, post-transition to DK4, and I'll never get around to fixing it.)
But those were done a long time ago, the most recent in 1999. Back then, you had to go into a studio to record. So I had pros help me with the recordings.
Well, in 1999 I also graduated law school and began my real life. I got married. Had kids. Began my career. While I still played piano and composed, I did so far less frequently. And I certainly never recorded anything.
Well, technology is grand and now all you need is a Mac, some mics, and a bit of know-how. A year ago, I got all the necessary gear. And while it took me a year to get around to it (we've been busy), I finally recorded my first song in 12 years tonight:
February Song by dailykos
So here's my question -- this is a raw file. One take. No processing or effects.
Are there any sound engineers in the house that could let me know what I need to apply (if anything) to get this file (and others I hope to record in the future) in top shape? Compression? Gate? EQ? Anything else?
And yes, if there are any pro musicians in the house, my performance technique sucks. I only had three years of formal training -- between the ages of 14-17, thus I have a very weak foundation. I do the best I can with what I have. Luckily, I don't have to worry about trying to make a living off it.
Any technical feedback would be appreciated.
Update: Here's the same recording with some EQ fiddling, and a touch of extra reverb. I really don't know what I'm doing here...
February Song2 by dailykos