What Recording Connection Mentors and Other Music Industry Pros Have To Say About The Best Way to Learn Audio Skills
Audio is a skilled trade whether you are an audio engineering craftsman, an music producing genius, or an artistic electronic music performer. As with all such endeavors the best way to learn the skills and nuances of your craft is by immersing yourself in it…i.e. learn by doing, or as Nike would say, just do it. When 37 out of 37 music industry pros all recommend this method of learning these skills and nuances, you should probably listen. We did, which is why we are such strong advocates of the mentor apprentice method of audio education. But don’t take our word for it, read what the industry pros have to say.
Lance Dean aka Blaqout – Prysm Talent Agency
“The reason that I love teaching for Recording Connection is pretty simple; the results speak for themselves. Not only do I see graduates who learned under other mentors doing great things, but now my very own roster of graduates are proving to be very successful in the music industry in many ways. The students learn from somebody who’s DONE IT, not somebody who went to school to learn how to teach. We as mentors get to teach our students how to avoid making mistakes we made, how to do it better than we did when we started and the best part of it – we get it done in a way shorter timeframe! No 2-4 years of multiple classes and instructors, you’re learning right from the source. The one-on-one aspect of the teaching also gives us the ability to help our students tailor their skillset to the type of job they’re looking for whether it’s being hired at a studio, signing to record labels, performing live at venues, landing sync deals with their compositions, it’s never the same twice. We get that flexibility (and therefore those results) because the students aren’t sitting in classrooms by the bulk. Recording Connection is the way.”
Bruce Swedien (Legendary Audio Engineer)
“There is no right or wrong in sound. Trust your ears and experiment. That’s how you’ll discover your own unique style.”
Francesco Benvenuto – Luminous Sound
Credits: Lady Gaga, Travis Scott, Ed Sheeran, Lil Wayne
“In life there’s your vocation but then there’s your calling. The fulfillment I get when I become an integral part of someone’s success in the music industry, is the reason I dedicate myself to The Recording Connection. I once too got hit with failures and disappointments but mentors led the way and elevated me in today’s relevant knowledge and skill, for making successful records at a professional level, in this highly competitive industry. After being now a part of a Grammy winning record, and multiple Grammy nominations, I look back with much gratefulness and appreciation for those who played a role in my growth. Everyone I’ve had the honor to work with at The Recording Connection understand this vision and share the same goals. They offer a one-of-a-kind concept that is essential for a student looking to make a mark in the music industry.”
Quincy Jones (Music Producer)
“The best education you can get is by being around people who know what they’re doing. Find mentors, work on projects, and never stop learning.”
Patrick Heaney – Phaser Control
Clients: Skrillex, Tiesto, BET, Atlantic Records
I love inspiring students to reach their full potential and watching their passion for music production and recording grow. It’s incredibly fulfilling to share my knowledge and watch as they develop their own unique sound and skills in the studio. Every lesson is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact and share my love for the craft. We are not professors, we’re professionals and give them real life experience.
Helping students take their ideas and make it come to life is mind-blowing. This isn’t an online course. This is where you write, track, mix and master albums. This is where you put your name out into the world. This is where you expand your brand. This is where you find business partners. This is where you collaborate and make records. The Recording Connection is it.
George Martin (Producer, The Beatles)
“A comprehensive understanding of both the technology and the music is crucial.”
Joseph Delfino – Miller Street Studios
Clients: Wu Tang Clain, Waka Flocka, Whitney Houston, R. Kelly
“Teaching for Recording Connection is an immensely rewarding experience. The school offers a unique platform that blends hands-on learning with industry expertise, allowing me to share my passion for audio engineering in a practical and impactful way. I appreciate the opportunity to guide aspiring audio professionals and help them develop their skills in a real-world setting. The support and resources provided by Recording Connection also make it easier to create a productive and engaging learning environment for my students.
The mentor apprenticeship method of education is highly effective because it provides students with direct, hands-on experience under the guidance of seasoned professionals. This approach allows for personalized instruction tailored to each student’s needs and learning pace. By working on real projects and facing real challenges, students gain practical knowledge and skills that are immediately applicable in their careers.
The mentor-apprentice relationship also fosters a deeper understanding of the industry and creates a supportive network that can be invaluable as students progress in their professional journeys.
In-studio education is unparalleled in its ability to immerse students in the actual environment where professional work happens. Learning in a studio setting provides students with a tangible understanding of the equipment, technology, and workflows that are essential in the audio engineering field. It also allows them to experience the creative and collaborative aspects of studio work firsthand. Being in the studio helps students build confidence and competence, as they are able to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical context and see the immediate results of their efforts. The connections made through these programs can lead to valuable opportunities in the industry.”
Rick Rubin (Music Producer)
“You don’t need to know everything to get started. Just start making music. The rest will come as you immerse yourself in the process.”
“Never stop experimenting with your sound and always seek to learn new techniques.”
David Lee Hughes – Shine On Studio
Credits: Mars Volta, Fortress United, Krystal Park, NBC, MTV, CBS, History Channel
“Opening our doors to RECORDING CONNECTION apprentices has led to so much creativity amongst everyone at the studio. As a mentor, I enjoy sharing knowledge and experience through demonstration and collaboration with each apprentice. Working with each apprentice in my own studio allows me to be efficient and provide a place that is inspiring. Teaching apprentices to use the pro audio equipment that I use everyday brings them up to a new level of understanding. This knowledge is crucial for the advancement and development in the audio industry. The ideas and compositions that come from each apprentice as they progress and learn constantly amazes and impresses me. We always keep an open mind for every idea that comes through our doors. The studio staff has been open and receptive to the curiosity of the apprentices, which has lead to numerous collaborations. At Shine On Studio, we always encourage and inspire each other to create and discover new possibilities in the artistic world. I can say, from the experience of working with many apprentices over the years, that starting an apprenticeship with us will most definitely be rewarding and a life-changing experience.”
Ricky Rich – Studio 713
Credits: Diplo, Drake, Megan Thee Stallion, Travis Scott, Nicki Minaj, Rick Ross, Justin Bieber, Lil Baby
“When Recording Connection reached out to me, I thought it was a great solution and a great option because I wish I would have found something like this when I was a student; because of the one on one, the price, and to actually be in a real world environment, learning, seeing and watching how everything works is a much better choice than going somewhere learning from someone who just knows book knowledge or theory. It is all about connections and the Recording Connection is my top choice and the best school out there.”
Bob Ludwig (Mastering Engineer)
“Mastering involves critical listening and honing your skills through persistent practice.”
Steve Catizone – Infinite Music
Credits: NBC, Universal Music, Sony Music, Interscope Records, Don Heley, Foghat, Black Eyed Peas, Flock of Seagulls
“The hands-on approach in-studio audio engineer and music production training that is the basis of the Recording Connection program is definitely the best way to learn. I wish it was around when I first started! Learning directly from experienced engineer/Producers is really the best way to gain not only technical knowledge but insight into the recording industry as well. It is also great for students to see the day-to-day operation of a modern recording studio and all that this business entails. The technical skills a student can learn in Pro Tools, Logic and Ableton thru The Recording Connection are cutting edge. We end up hiring students regularly once they graduate.
I love working with Recording Connection, they are dedication to ensuring that each student gets the education that they need to give them a leg up in the music industry which is extremely inspiring. Each student literally has a team of people working to make sure that they get positioned for success.
I’ve loved working with students who are hungry to learn and soak up every bit of knowledge and experience that my staff, along with the Recording Connection staff, bring to the table. My experience has been nothing less than wonderful working with staff at every level from admissions to academic facilitators to the people in career resources. I’ve never been involved with a school that has a staff that’s so motivated to see each student succeed.
The curriculums are extremely thorough and absolutely provide a structured education experience where students are able to learn their craft from the ground up while also working at a challenging level from the very start of the program. I highly recommend this program to creative at all levels.”
Brian Eno (Musician and Producer)
“Learning how to listen is more important than learning how to operate equipment. The gear is just a tool; your ears are what truly matter.”
“Embrace the learning process and let your curiosity guide your exploration of sound.”
Donny Baker – ES Audio
Credits: Rick James, Alice Cooper, Korn, Amine, Beyonce, Travis Barker, Eek-a-Mouse, Brandy, Wiz Khalifa
“The Recording Connection externship program places students directly in a recording studio, providing them with invaluable, hands-on experience that no classroom can replicate.. By working alongside industry professionals, they gain essential skills and real-world insights, preparing them for seamless transitions into the professional world. The mentorship they receive fosters creativity, technical prowess, and the confidence needed to thrive in the competitive music industry, setting a strong foundation for their future careers. This is how this industry has been taught and learned for generations and will always to be the best way to learn recording as an art.”
Patrick Fruehling – Engine Room Audio
Credits: CBS, Keyon Harrold, Kenneth Whalum, Julius Rodriguez, Havoc, Storm
“As a Recording Connection mentor, I work with students of all different skill levels and tailor each of my classes to their needs based on prior experience, learning styles and goals. In addition to building a strong audio engineering foundation through studying the curriculum, I also instill practical lessons that I’ve learned through my experience in professional studio sessions. I feel most rewarded as an instructor when my students leave my sessions feeling motivated and inspired to progress in their audio engineering journey.”
Sylvia Massy (Record Producer)
“Be curious and experiment. You’ll learn so much more by trying things out for yourself than following a set of rules.”
Learning by doing—immersing yourself in projects and gaining knowledge from each experience—is invaluable.” “
Sheldon “Coz” Ellerby – Trace Line Music
Credits: Ludacris, BET, Angie Stone, Jaheim
“My passion for spreading knowledge and my experiences with music and engineering is never ending. I get a kick out of showing someone something new that might change the game in reference to engineering and production. Also it’s a good feeling to see others prosper in their field and grow to be the next shining star. Most of all it brings me back to when I struggled to learn how to do certain things with no help, and how I can make it easier for the next one going down the same path.”
Mark Christensen – Engine Room Audio
Credits: Rick Ross, Tony Braxton, Depeche Mode, 50 Cent, A$AP Rocky, Common, Killers, Prodigy, Al Green
“I believe very strongly that audio is something that needs to be taught in a very hands-on way. In order to learn how to make a record, you need to be able to hear what you’re working on touch the equipment that you’re working with, and experience the whole process in a real-world setting, not in a classroom. Recording Connection offers exactly this kind of education, and I truly believe that everyone at Recording Connection is very passionate about teaching Audio.
The combination of one-on one-instruction and the opportunity to learn inside of a working commercial recording studio makes this the best audio education option out there!“
Steve Albini (Music Engineer)
“Hands-on experience in the studio and tackling real-world challenges is the best way to learn.”
G.W. Childs – Cloudland Studios
Credits: James Brown, Ray Charles, Star Wars, Gene Love Jezebel
“My passion in mentoring with the Recording Connection originates in exactly what the school is founded around- passing on a craft that I deeply care about to other passionate people that love the craft of recording and creation. Every staff member, every affiliate that I’ve had the pleasure of working and creating with have all shared this same passion. And, I find this rare and precious in any organization. But, especially at the Recording Connection, where you get to work, teach and learn with amazing students and faculty, including one of the most professional admissions departments I’ve ever heard of.”
Steven Clark – Clear Track Studios
Credits: Michael Buble, Gucci Mane, Machine Gun Kelly, Paula Cole, Juliette Lewis
“There is nothing better than learning hands-on in a professional studio with a professional engineer!
As a pro musician and recording studio owner, I can honestly say, this is the best audio school in America.“
Mack Woodward – Madison Records
Clients: Michael Jackson, Usher, Maroon 5, Lil Wayne, Bow Wow, Soulja Boy, Trey Songz, Outkast, Beyonce, Nicki Menaj, Pussycat Dolls
“Mentoring with the Recording Connection has been one of the greater joys of my career. Everyone operating at a high level in the industry had a mentor or two and it’s wonderful to be able to give back in the same way through the school. Additionally, I’ve met some of my best friends and colleagues in music through Recording Connection. If you’re ready to work hard and launch your music career, Recording Connection is the place to start.”
Alan Parsons (Audio Engineer and Musician)
“Understanding the tools is important, but knowing how to use them creatively sets you apart.”
Joseph Petersen a.k.a Joey Paranoia
Credits: Landis, Randal M., Luci, Nexus, David Christophere
“Being a Recording Connection mentor allows me to engage my students on a one-on-one basis and learn about them on a much more personal level. I am able to understand where they came from, what inspires them currently, and ultimately what their end goal is. Customizing each session to the student’s goals is essential to their success. Watching my students achieve their goals step by step during the course and even after they graduate is very rewarding. Being proud of my work by their success is quite a gift.”
James Seabrook – Two Bodies of Water Productions
Credits: Trevor Johnsen, Mike Landry, Robin Marion, The Mishaps, Kat Zel, Laura Bachynski, Kill Wonder, Miles to Memphis
“Not only do I get to spend my time talking about a profession I am deeply passionate about, but I get to share that passion with people who will question and challenge everything I think I know. Recording Connection makes this happen. The program is so well laid out and blends the perfect amount of book learning and hands on experience, I wish I’d thought of it.
There is SO much demand of skill that there’s no possible way to come out of a stale school environment and find any measure of success. A mentor works closely with an apprentice to both supervise and provide freedom to make mistakes all while real-world scenarios provide real world outcomes.
A genuine working studio is about the only place you’ll accomplish this which is why an In Studio education is so crucial and time proven.
This career can easily be one of the most satisfying endeavors you might ever engage in. It won’t come easy and it won’t happen quickly so you need to be prepared to invest yourself into the education, the opportunities, and the practice that will feel overwhelming.”
Nigel Godrich (Record Producer)
“Collaborate with others and be open to feedback to grow your audio skills.”
Blaqout
“The reason that I love teaching for Recording Connection is pretty simple; the results speak for themselves. Not only do I see graduates who learned under other mentors doing great things, but now my very own roster of graduates are proving to be very successful in the music industry in many ways. The students learn from somebody who’s DONE IT, not somebody who went to school to learn how to teach. We as mentors get to teach our students how to avoid making mistakes we made, how to do it better than we did when we started and the best part of it – we get it done in a way shorter timeframe! No 2-4 years of multiple classes and instructors, you’re learning right from the source. The one-on-one aspect of the teaching also gives us the ability to help our students tailor their skillset to the type of job they’re looking for whether it’s being hired at a studio, signing to record labels, performing live at venues, landing sync deals with their compositions, it’s never the same twice. We get that flexibility (and therefore those results) because the students aren’t sitting in classrooms by the bulk. Recording Connection is the way.”
Phil Green – Greenteam Media
Clients: Universal, Lil Wayne, CBS, Casablanca Records, Taralynn Ramsey
“The “in-studio one-on-one training” they offer is truly unique in my experience. The individualized focus and attention I provide to each student are revolutionary. Gone are the days of sitting at the back of a classroom with unanswered questions. This hands-on approach not only enhances learning but also ensures that every student receives personalized guidance tailored to their needs and goals in the recording industry. It’s incredibly rewarding to witness their growth and success firsthand.”
Manny Marroquin (Grammy Award-Winning Mixing Engineer)
“The only way you’re going to get good is by working with real projects and making mistakes. That’s how you learn. There’s no shortcut.”
Joey Heier – Crystal Clear Studio
Clients: Jay-Z, Beyonce, Chubby Checker, Christina Aquilera, MGK
“In my 30+ years as a mentor for Recording Connection I have seen how successful students who are as dedicated to this amazing, comprehensive course as I am to teaching it have become. Some former students have gone on to work for Sir Paul McCartney, Taylor Swift, Kevin Hart and Pentatonix just to name a few. There is nothing better than learning hands on in a professional studio with a professional engineer! Mentoring for Recording Connection has become my greatest passion and I am honored to share that passion with my students!”
Bob Clearmountain (Legendary Mixing Engineer)
“Get in a studio, any studio, and learn by doing. You can’t just read about it or watch a tutorial—actual practice is where the real learning happens.”
J-Intell – Omina Laboratory
Credits: Snoop Dog, Mos Def, Ray J
“Working for the Recording Connection gave me the opportunity to teach what I love and continue to help young minds get to the next level.
I feel that my students inspire me with my personal music, help me keep up with the evolution of the music industry and new technology coming out. I feel being a mentor gives students a chance to get an insight on an industry that sometimes has big walls to knock down and working with me gives them the chance to knock those walls down. I love being the person who can make that happen. From “Mozzy” to “Hippie Sabotage” I have home grown major talent who now tour the world and have platinum records, all starting from Grandma’s basement to now the world-famous OMINA LABORATORIES.
The one on one gives me the opportunity to make sure every student gets what they pay for, a quality education, hands on experience and an opportunity to break down those walls!
I’ve had students work for sound companies, radio stations, night clubs and even open their own studios in the pursuit for a dream! There are so many different opportunities and career choices in the music industry, with hard work and determination you can follow any path that is calling you! Never say “Can’t” you can do anything if you try! “
Andrew Scheps (Mixing Engineer for Adele, Red Hot Chili Peppers)
“The best way to learn is to just do it. Start mixing, start recording, don’t be afraid to make a mess. You learn more from doing than you ever will from a textbook.”
Ken Fordyce
Clients: Sigma Sound Studios, Queen Village Studios, ADR, Sigma Sound Studios
“The program structure is concise, to the point and in my estimation covers the weekly subject matter thoroughly. The students have been punctual, hardworking and have really enjoyed their experience here. www.mirrorsound.com. I’ve been teaching music and audio since my mid 20s so it was a natural fit for me to join up with The Recording Connection 25 years ago.
For many young people the traditional College experience is not what they want. The Recording Connection offers a great alternative and allows they to explore and learn about music and recording technology which can lead to many job opportunities in many fields in every city in the country.”
Al Schmitt (20-Time Grammy-Winning Engineer)
“Listen, listen, and listen some more. The most important thing is to train your ears. You can’t mix what you can’t hear.”
Prince Strickland – Portland Underground Recording
Clients: Black Eyed Peas, Wu-Tang Clan, Beatie Boys, Mos Def, Tricky
“As I reflect on my time as a mentor with the Recording Connection, I am filled with immense gratitude and appreciation. Working with such a dedicated and passionate team has been an incredibly rewarding experience.
One of the greatest joys of my role has been the opportunity to work with new students and emerging artists. Witnessing their growth, creativity, and passion for music has been nothing short of inspiring. Each student brings a unique perspective and energy, and it has been an honor to guide them on their journey.”
Chris Lord-Alge (Mixing Engineer)
“The best lessons I’ve learned came from being in the room with other engineers and producers, soaking up everything I could.”