The Arranger

What Does the Arranger Do?

The Arranger takes an existing piece of music and adds things like accompaniment, such as rhythm instruments, back-up vocal lines, counter-melodies that enhance the main melody, etc. Some arrangers simply take an existing song and add a small band back-up. On a larger scale, arrangers might add orchestrations, with numerous instruments such as those found in traditional orchestras, concert bands, choruses, and even sound effects.

The role of the arranger may cross over into that of a composer, when the arranger adds new material, such as counter melodies to enhance the words and original music.

Singers who focus their attention on the song-writing and performance use their arranger to fashion the special sounds that listeners come to identify with that singer. A hip hop artist will use a producer/arranger who creates strong, unique rhythm tracks that incorporate samples, midi instruments, live instruments and effects. Country or romantic pop singers, like Linda Ronstadt have used composer/arrangers who create symphonic back-ground tracks...the classic example being the use of Nelson Riddle's string section writing.

Your arranger can help you cut the length of your song to fit a specific audition, or demo. The shortened version might highlight the stronger parts of your voice. Intros might be lengthened or shortened as needed. Bridge sections can be composed to add more unique material. Arrangers can simplify the music, or add complexity. A good arranger will be one who can do either with equal ease.

Your arranger can help you put songs together into medleys, adapt a song as a duet or tranpose the song to a different key that will project better given your vocal range. When you play your songs with different bands or musicians backing you up, which happens frequently, your arranger should provide you with written out parts with either notated notes and/or chords and explanatory notes for the band members, so you can re-create the original sound of your cd or 'home' performance 'on the road'.

It is well worth the investment to hire an arranger or a producer who also composes and/or arranges, so your sound will sound unique, and thus stand out in peoples' minds...be memorable, and become loved by your fans.

With many years of experience performing professionally, I have a great deal of experience in

• listening skills...listening to music, and listening to the needs of others

• I have a lot of experience in turning ideas into reality. I have created my own music, realized others' music, cd's, mp3's, played for others on their records and created my own. 

• I've worked in studios and created my own. I've also created organizations.

• I have taught and coached many student musicians and brought them to a high level of artistry. 

• I have also in my leadership positions advised my own musical colleagues in ensembles that I have led.

• I have a diverse stylistic background. I have experience and know the styles of many different kinds of music. I've backed up pop and country, classical and so forth. I'll study your musical style and match the arrangements and productions to your individual stylistic approach, so the results will always be true to your personality and self-image as projected in your music. Of course, this requires honesty on your own part! You must know yourself! I can help you find yourself, if you're not sure yet where you're heading exactly. if you're certain you have your course charted, I'll help you get there.

The Producer?

Takes your ideas and turns helps you turn them into the professional quality sound that you want your fans, your audience to know you by.

I work hands-on with my own equipment. If we need to use other facilities, I'll work hand-in-hand with other engineers. I'll help you find and contract additional help; musicians, technicians and even help you get your music 'out there' if you need some managerial assistance. Which hats I wear depends on you and your needs and the details of the project.

The strongest thing I bring to your music is my sensitivity to music and my respect for your ideas. The other thing I bring you is the freeing up of your mind and/or voice and hands to 'do your thing'.

will help you make your ideas become reality.

If you feel a CD or mp3 is what you need to do, I'll produce it with you.

If you need to prepare for concerts, tours, or other performances, I'll put my arranging, coaching and production skills to the task for you.

I'll help you identify other professionals that match your needs and work styles. Some of the work I'll be doing for you will be hands-on, and some will be in the form of consultation.