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[wildplum]

In interviews, both Al Schmitt and Ed Cherney mentioned using similar systems for achieving an acceptable amount of isolation while recording a singing pianist (Dianna Krall and Nora Jones). The key to the system seems to be using a large piece of "foam" (12 inches thick according to one of them) and draping blankets over the foam and piano (I assume on a full stick, using the top to support the blankets).
I am interested in learning more details about this technique. Also, any other tips on managing bleed in a singing pianist situation

[hargerst]

wildplum wrote on Mon, 20 September 2004 16:49

In interviews, both Al Schmitt and Ed Cherney mentioned using similar systems for achieving an acceptable amount of isolation while recording a singing pianist (Dianna Krall and Nora Jones). The key to the system seems to be using a large piece of "foam" (12 inches thick according to one of them) and draping blankets over the foam and piano (I assume on a full stick, using the top to support the blankets). I am interested in learning more details about this technique. Also, any other tips on managing bleed in a singing pianist situation

You can always use the trick of a figure 8 sideways to null the vocals and pick up just the piano, and another very directional mic to get just the vocals.

[20to20]

I'm not Al or Ed but here are
some approaches that I use:

After positioning the mic(s) inside the piano,
I lower the lid to rest on a foam block
then I drape heavy blankets over the lid ...

I use a big (14"x8"x4") chunk of laminated
packing foam to prop the lid open just a few inches...

Don't use the piano's stick at all...

For mics, I'll often use two Earthworks (QTC-30's)
positioned perpendicularly to the piano's soundboard...

The mics are placed down into 2 of the 4 holes
that were cast into the piano's iron frame,
a mere 3mm to 6mm above the soundboard...

These locations are infinitely variable, but after
many experiments, I've developed some favorite spots...
_____________________________________________________

Then I usually close-mic the vocalist with a cardioid LDC...

I've also had good results with some singers using a Royer 122,
but to help with the separation I rigged up an Auralex
"scrapbaffle" behind the mic (between the mic and the piano)...

Good luck/Have fun,