How to record a Guitar Performance

There are a few different aspects to keep in mind while recording a Guitar Performance

1. Lighting

2. Sound

3. Recording location

4. Video Device (camera / phone)

Lighting to record a Guitar Performance

• Ensure there is sufficient light on the Guitar and the Performer

• Avoid any bright lights from behind the performer

• 2 point lighting or 3 point lighting can be used for this

Sound to record a Guitar Performance

• Ensure there is no background noise while recording

• In case there is too much disturbance then try recording at another time

Different options to record good quality sound?

• Option 1 : Use the phone microphone

• Option 2 : Use a Lavalier microphone such as the Boya BY-M1. (Amazon link)

• Option 3 : Use a sound-card such as the Scarlett Focusrite (Amazon link)

Recording Location to record a Guitar Performance

Make sure the "set" or recording location, including the background is neat and tidy. A simple black or white curtain or cloth may be used to give a clean background.

Video Device to record a Guitar Performance

A smartphone is good enough to get started with recording. You don't need an expensive DSLR or a mirrorless camera to get started.

Which App to use for recording?

1. Option 1 : Default camera app on your phone

2. Option 2 : OpenCamera for recording guitar videos as it gives us the option to lock the brightness for recording.

Camera Settings to be used

1. Resolution : Please pick a resolution below

   1. Option 1 : 1920 × 1080

   2. Option 2 : 3840 x 2160

2. Frame Rate : Select frame rate as 24 fps

3. Turn Grid on

4. Position subject as shown below using the grid We want to fit the guitar and the performer within the frame with little extra space on either side and above their head

How to position a guitar for recording a performance

Recording the performance

1. Click record

2. Smile and look at the camera for 2 seconds

3. Quick introduction

   1. Example : Hi, my name is Nikhil, I am 12 years old and today I will be performing “Twinkle Twinkle” on “Acoustic Guitar”

4. Perform the song

5. Don’t worry if any mistakes happen, just restart or continue playing the song. The file can be edited later.

6. After finishing the performance, look at the camera again and smile for 2 seconds

Sharing the file

1. Option 1 : Please use Google drive or any other cloud service to share the recording in the highest quality

2. Option 2 : Use whatsapp to share the file in HD (high definition)

3. Option 3 : Request me to share a link which can be used to upload the file

Summary

• Lighting : sufficient and not too bright

• Sound : minimal disturbance

• Recording location : neat and tidy

• Video Device (camera / phone) : either will do

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How to take RSL Performance Exam via Video Submission

Congratulations ! You are now ready to give the RSL Examinations and get internationally certified ! Make sure the read through all the instructions to ensure that you do your best for the exam.

Types of Exams

RSL Awards can accept and mark two types of graded music exams via video submission:

1. Performance Certificates

2. Graded Certificates

We will be focusing on the Performance Exam now.

Performance Exam

The recording needs to be continuous with no editing permitted, including setting up, tone and equipment adjustments, re-tuning, and any similar activity, and all dialogue either to the camera or with the other person present

• Record and upload 5 pieces

• One take, unedited performance

• Only the performer in the room and someone to film the recording

Is there any script that I should use for the exam?

Yes, there is a script to be used for the exam. Please use the below script for the exam.

Hi,

My name is <"Full Name">. I am <"X years"> old.

I will be giving the <"Rockschool Premiere Exam"> for Guitar.

1. My first song is <"Song 1 name">. <Perform the song>

2. My second song is <"Song 2 name">. <Perform the song>

3. My third song is <"Song 3 name">. <Perform the song>

4. My fourth song is <"Song 4 name">. <Perform the song>

5. My fifth song is <"Song 5 name">. <Perform the song>

Thank you.

Which Video Resolution to use?

Minimum video resolution is 720HD videos and maximum acceptable resolution is 1080HD

What frame rate should I use?

Any frame rate between between 25fps and 30fps

What video format should I use?

Please use .mp4 file format

Framing Guide

1. We need to see you and your instrument clearly. Full extent of the player, instrument, any equipment being used throughout (e.g., footswitches/amps) and accompanist if present.

2. Keep your footage as steady as possible.

3. If you can use a tripod or some other kind of camera mount, that would be ideal. If you do need someone to hold a camera or phone, please ensure you keep the video as stable as possible and avoid zooming in or out during the exam

Framing Guide : How to frame the shot

Framing Guide : How to frame the shot

How many Attempts can I take?

As many attempts as desired may be taken before the final recording is shared for evaluation.

Summary

• Video Resolution - Minimum video resolution is 720HD videos and maximum acceptable resolution is 1080HD

• Frame rate - Any frame rate between between 25fps and 30fps

• Video format - .mp4

• Framing - Fit the full body and instrument within the video

• How many attempts - As many as required

Please feel free to get in touch with me if you have any queries.

What should I buy to start playing Classical Guitar ?

Man playing Classical Guitar

If you really want to get started with playing the Guitar then you need to know what exactly you need to buy. Buying the right Guitar can ensure that you continue playing forever !

Allow me to introduce myself. I am Nikhil Xavier D'Souza and I have been learning the Guitar for 32 years. I am also an Internationally Certified Classical Finger Style Guitarist. Over the years, I have seen that many of my students have purchased the wrong equipment while getting started, only to regret it and end up purchasing another Guitar.

Before you get started on your musical journey, make sure you purchase the below items.

Item #1 - The Right Classical Guitar

While you can always buy a cheaper guitar, I would personally recommend the Yamaha C40 as a good beginner Classical Guitar.

Which Size to buy?

Purchase the Classical Guitar depending on the height of the student. The table below gives you the recommended sizes based on the height of the student.

Guitar Size Based on Height

Links to Purchase a Guitar online

1. 1/2 Size Guitar - Link to buy - Amazon Link

2. 3/4 Size Guitar -Link to buy - Amazon Link

3. 7/8 Size Guitar - Link to buy - Amazon Link

4. 4/4 Size Guitar (Full size) - Link to buy - Amazon Link

Item #2 - A Foot Stool

A footstool is a tool used by classical guitarists to prop up their leg and support it while playing. It serves a few different functions, including aiding in correcting posture and allowing the guitarist to get into an optimal playing position

Guitar Footstool

Link to buy - Amazon Link

Item #3 - A Guitar Bag

I suggest buying a decent Guitar Bag with some padding so that your instrument is kept safe at all times. If you are spending thousands on a Guitar, then please also spend on a good cover or case for your Guitar.

Guitar Bag

Link to buy - Amazon Link

Item #4 - Music stand (optional)

A music stand isn't a must but it is something I recommend.

Music Stand

Link to buy - Amazon Link

Additional Tips

• If you are in Chennai, then I suggest that you purchase your guitar from here

• Not from Chennai? Please visit your nearest store before purchasing your Guitar

• Alternatively, you can purchase your guitar from online stores such as Amazon and so on

Summary

To summarize, while you can spend all your money on buying expensive gear, you don't really need any of it. All you really need is

1. A Classical Guitar Link to buy

2. A Foot Stood Link to buy

3. A Guitar Bag Link to buy

4. A Music Stand Link to buy

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