FAQ on our Recording Service of Remote Examinations for ABRSM/ Trinity
Updated on 23 Dec 2023
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Let us worry your recording part while you can focus on your playing so that you ace the Examination

We have divided this FAQ into 3 parts
Part 1: Facilities and Devices
Part 2: ABRSM Requirements
Part 3: What to Expect When You Book 1 Hour Recording With Us
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PART 1: FACILITIES AND DEVICES
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What size is your studio?
Is it suitable for instruments like Cello?

• Our Studio size is 5.7m by 2.7m wide.
• It is suitable for most instruments except Harpsichord, Organ and Percussion.
• It is suitable for maximum 4 pax or a quartet.

 
What piano do you use?
​What is the tuning frequency?

• We use Yamaha U7. It is 131cm tall, 67cm deep and 152cm wide.
• It has a teak wood finish.
• This piano was initially designed for professional pianists who couldn’t fit a grand in their room. Hence the mechanics and tone colour are similar to the G series Yamaha Grand Piano.
• We maintained the piano with tuning every 6 months.
• As most of our own students are wind and string students, we tune it to 442 Hz.

 
What is the recording device and the microphones you use?
What is your video resolution?
Is there a tripod?
What is the format?

• We use Zoom Q8 with a stand.
• This equipment comes with stereo X/Y microphone which is designed for musicians to record.
• In accordance with ABRSM requirements, we would set the video resolution to 1080p by 720p (29.97 frames/s). This is clear enough and the video file would be within 2GB, as also specified by ABRSM. For Trinity, the file would be within 1GB.
• For audio, we set to AAC format, 256 kbps and 48,000kHz for Sample Rate. This gives a high quality audio sound.
• For instruments (Except Saxophone and brass), the above setting would be sufficient.
• However, for Saxophone and brass, we would set up a 2nd microphone to the piano to balance the sound between the instruments. The 2nd mic we use is Rode NTG-2.
• The original format is MOV. However, we would convert MP4 format for you as this format is more accessible for most people.

 
What other equipment are in the room?

• We provide up to 4 Hercules Stands if needed. The room has tables and chairs too. It would be cleared if needed.

 
How much is the Recording Package/ Service?

• $110 – including the recording service AND Room Rental

 
Is this service available to non-Flute-and-Music-Academy or external Students?

• Yes. However, our timings may be limited, please look at the next question.

 
What is your available times for recording?

• Mon, Wed, Thur, Fri – 1pm to 8pm.
• For timings not stated above, it is negotiable but case by case basis.

 
Do you provide Accompaniment service too?

• Yes we do. Please contact us for pricing.

How do we get the video?

• Once we have rendered the video, we will send you the file via WeTransfer using your email.
• This should be completed within 1 – 2 working days after the recording.

PART 2: ABRSM REQUIREMENTS & SAMPLE VIDEO TAKE

As most of our students record for ABRSM, we will focus the answers mainly on the ABRSM requirements. We do recordings for Trinity too.

Sample Video at our studio with the equipment mentioned above:

Can one take a break in between pieces?

• Yes you can pause to rest, take a sip or adjust the instruments.

 
Where do we upload the video? Do you register for us?

• The video can be uploaded after you register for the exam on the ABRSM Portal. We do offer the service to help you register with an admin fee of $20. If we register for you, we will also help you upload the video once you give the approval.

PART 3: WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU BOOK 1 HOUR RECORDING WITH US

What do I need to prepare or bring to the studio?
1. Identity Card of Candidate
2. Programme Form script (Optional)
3. Original scores
 
This is the itinerary we would suggest when you have a recording session with us:

• For the first 10 – 15 minutes: We suggest candidate (and accompanist) to warm up and do a sound check.  Tuning is also essential if you have accompanist. The videographer will use this time to check the microphones and balance of sounds too.
• When ready, we will proceed to do a first take or recording 1. A quick review will follow after that.
• For grade 1 – 7 candidates, you can do another 2 more recordings if time allows and we will pick the best recording among the 3 recordings
• For grade 8, there would be time only for 2 recordings in total.
• For ARSM/ATCL/LTCL, only 1 recording is possible for each hour session.
• To End: The videographer would record email and names of those present for admin purpose later.​

Fun Fact: ​
Do you know our recording studio faces southeast. It has been verified by a Fengshui master as an excellent room for education and meetings.