Optimising the Recording Process: Exploring the ideal mindset and approach to recording

Abstract: The purpose of this thesis is to discuss which approach and mindset is most optimal when creating a recording as a classical musician. This thesis examines and compares the differences between the practise of creating a recording and live performance predominantly from the perspective of the performer. Firstly, a review of literature from the field is made followed by a reflection of my own personal experiences with recording. Then a survey is created based on themes I have observed from the previous sections of the thesis and given out to music students and teachers from Malmö Academy of Music. The results are later compared and contrasted with my personal experiences and the literary sources in a discussion. The discussion is divided into five areas of concern; risk taking and perfectionism, audience versus camera or microphone, self-awareness, pressure and focus and preparation.