When I was about 5 years old, I began recording myself into a little red cassette tape recorder. I would sing the hymns and Sunday school songs I was learning. It was awesome to have a singing partner!
As time went on, I wanted to record my duets. The only way I could do that was to get a second cassette recorder and record the “two of me” singing. That stared a cascade effect, but now I could ping-pong back and forth between the two recorders, adding a new part each time. This is how I learned to sing harmony.
I would make up arrangements. They were simple at first, because I’d have to remember any timing changes, key changes, or other details. I’d have to remember them all consistently through each part I recorded!
It’s been years – decades, even – since I created arrangements truly out of my head. I thought it might be fun to try it again, with YOU along as my friend and audience! I hope you enjoy this little journey.
-Ben