Welcome, Vanguard University Orchestra!
Everything you need for your Go West virtual performance is below.
INSTRUCTIONS
REQUIRED: Listening
You must listen to the provided click track while you record to make sure that your part lines up with everyone else!
REQUIRED: Headphones
You must listen to the click track with headphones when you record. This is so we don’t hear it on the final recording!
REQUIRED: Clap!
Follow the instructions on the click track and be sure to audibly clap at the right sync point.
Practice Slowly
Make sure that you understand every rhythm, pitch, and articulation.
Get used to the space
Practice in the space where you’ll record, so that it’s super easy when it’s time to perform.
Practice Performing
Once you can comfortably perform all notes and rhythms at tempo, practice along with the clicktrack to make sure your pitch and timing is spot on. The goal is to be as perfect and accurate as possible.
INSTRUCTIONS
The goal of this submission is to get as high-quality of an audio recording as possible. This should be recorded in a quiet, medium-sized space with as little movement as possible. Your air conditioning, fans, and any TV or electronics must be turned off while you record.
Recording volume should not extend above mezzo-forte, unless you have an external microphone where you are able to control the gain.
Be especially careful of performing directly towards your microphone – the air and percussive mouth sounds can distort your recording. If possible, also avoid turning pages, as microphones are especially sensitive to this sound.
Pick a Tidy Location
Choose a location based on how loud your performance will be. Too small of a space will overpower your microphone, too big and it’ll have too much echo.
Make a couple of test recordings and listen back with headphones to see how it sounds.
Erase Background Noise
- Turn off Fans and Air Conditioning
- Turn off all electronic devices
- Remove or reduce all page turns
- Adjust your music stand so you do not need to adjust during the performance
Turn off Notifications
Set your phone to Airplane Mode and Do Not Disturb to avoid ruining your best take.
INSTRUCTIONS
The goal of this submission is to capture as high-quality and engaging video as possible.
All video submissions should be filmed in Landscape, in 1080p, and 24 frames per second (fps), or the closest equivalent (30 frames per second is okay). You can double-check this in your phone’s camera settings. If using a smart phone, you should always record using the rear camera. You should never record using your computer’s built-in camera.
Before you begin, be sure to get your hair just right – because we will not be able to include your video if you adjust your hair, scratch your face, or do something that takes the focus away from the performance.
Pick a Tidy Location
Choose a location in front of a blank wall or in an area described by your director. All locations should be clear of any clutter or logos.
Optimize the Space
- Turn off all fans: this affects your lighting.
- Turn off all electronic devices: these can confuse your camera and distract you.
- If using a music stand or sheet music, lower it so the camera does not capture it.
Turn off Notifications
Set your phone to Airplane Mode and Do Not Disturb to avoid ruining your best take.
Film in Landscape (Sideways)
Be sure to use the rear camera on your phone for the highest quality!
Make sure YOU are in the frame!
Set-up your video so that you are facing your camera and your face and torso are clearly visible.
Check your Lighting
Make sure the brightest light in the room is in front of you! Check for any shadows or dark spots.
EQUIPMENT CHECK
Make sure all of your clothing and equipment are as quiet as possible.
Get ready
Make sure your chair, music, and headphone cables are set-up that you can quickly and easily start the click track and get into position to perform.
Start recording BEFORE you start the click track
Count the clicks while you prepare to perform and follow the instructions on the video for your required sync clap.
Record!
Record straight through the piece, counting through all rests and the extra clicks at the end.
Attire Check
Make sure that you are wearing the required attire, as assigned by your director.
Prepare your Space
Make sure your chair, music, and devices are set-up so that you can quickly transition from starting the click track, to getting into position.
Start recording BEFORE you start the click track
Count the clicks while you prepare to perform and follow the instructions on the video for your required sync clap.
Record!
Record straight through the piece, counting through all rests and the extra clicks at the end.
VIDEO CHECKLIST INSTRUCTIONS
Check your Audio Work
- Listen to your submission: did you nail the opening sync point?
- Is your sound clear or is it distorted?
- Did you miss any notes, rhythms, or articulations?
- Check for anything that may be distracting and re-record if you hear anything that is out of place.
Check your Video Work
- Watch your submission: Are you centered in the frame?
- Did you clap at the right sync point?
- Check your background – did any pets, siblings, or anything not related to the performance sneak in there?
- Did you adjust your hair or scratch your face? If so: time to re-record!
- Can you see your music or music stand in the shot? If so: time to re-record!
Upload your performance recording
Once you’re happy with your performance, use the UPLOAD button below to submit your recording!