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08 June 2009
Sheffield graduate explores the mind of a musician
A graduate from the University of Sheffield has produced two unique
programmes for BBC Radio 4, looking at the psychology behind music
recordings.
Terry Curran, a graduate from the University’s Department of Music, also
presents on the show, Performing to the Red Light, which takes listeners
behind the scenes of the recording process to gain an insight into
performers thoughts before they enter the studio.
Musicians are rarely provided with guidance on how to tackle studio
recordings, yet it is a common feature of their professional life.
Whilst some easily adapt to the process, others have struggled. Some
have even developed ‘phonophobia’ - a fear of the studio.
The programmes explore factors such as how performers cope with the
demands of making their first recording, along with how groups of
musicians decide which, out of several recordings, the best take was.
Based on Terry’s MA dissertation on the psychology of recording, the
programmes feature interviews with a number of classical recording
artists, some who are new to the business, and others who are more
experienced. There are also interviews with notable producers and
record-company executives, who discuss the psychological aspect of
making a recording.
Terry said: “I am delighted I was offered the opportunity to share my
music with the listeners of Radio 4. The psychology of recording is
truly a fascinating area and one that has received little attention in
the past. The process of making the programme has been really
interesting, and has allowed me to conduct more interviews for my
research.”
The first episode was aired this week (2 June 2009) with the second
episode being aired on 9 June 2009 at 1.30pm. Both programmes can be
listened to online at:
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