Program Overview

Recording Arts and Production

Make a splash in music production at Oberlin Conservatory

A string and wind ensemble in the recording studio with microphones all around. — Photo credit: Kevin G. Reeves

We strike a chord with aspiring music producers and audio engineers

In our growing recording arts and production major, you’ll explore recorded music through a study of history, craftsmanship, and music theory. In this program, you’ll apply audio skills acquired in the classroom to collaborate with ensembles of all sizes and styles.

While this program is based in the conservatory, this major teaches musicians of all styles and genres the technical skills and aesthetic considerations needed to explore the field of music production as both a profession and an art.

Through group and individualized instruction, hands-on opportunities to record, and exposure to accomplished engineers and producers, you’ll be poised for audio careers that demand the highest level of expertise.

Record with incredible musicians

Through projects on the Oberlin Music record label, live concerts for annual programming in the Conservatory of Music, and a growing number of film productions, there is no shortage of opportunities to collaborate with a broad range of musical artists.

Watch Oberlin faculty member Jamey Haddad record with his group Under One Sun for Oberlin Music
See The Foreigner’s Home recording session
View the video about the student American Roots Music group Hotspur Johnny! in a recording session mentored by Punch Brothers guitarist Chris Eldridge ’04

Program Facts

Program Type: Major
- Bachelor of Music (BM)
Division: Contemporary Music

Director

Andrew Tripp,
Associate Professor and Chair of Recording Arts and Production

Contact

Andrew Tripp

Recording.Arts@oberlin.edu

Quick Links

Musicians recording in a studio, as seen from the control room through the glass divider. — A control-room view of Kendra Colton ’83 recording “Crossroads” in Clonick Hall with the Oberlin Sinfonietta.

Photo credit: Yevhen Gulenko

Recording opportunities abound

Constant opportunities to apply developing skills is the cornerstone of this program. The diversity of Oberlin’s programming requires us to be ready for everything, from small chamber ensembles or electroacoustic performances to big band and full symphony orchestra. With more than 400 performances each year, we’re able to turn ‘knowledge’ and ‘approach’ into practical application.
Andrew Tripp, Associate Professor of Recording Arts and Production

Course of Study

This four-year bachelor of music program emphasizes a holistic approach to recording arts and production, marrying technical mastery with deep musical understanding. Students learn to produce musicians in the studio to bring out their best performances and master the technology to make these recordings the highest possible quality.

Program and curriculum details