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Nicholas Orlin
Of all the wonderful things I am learning and tasks I am accomplishing these blog posts have got to be the hardest. Well, these and trying to figure out this whole social media thing.
Accomplishment number one, I sent my first tweet! Unfortunately, it was about three hours before the tragedy in Orlando, so it probably was overlooked. I understand how important it is to generate content, that the purpose of generating content is to attract followers, people who think what I have to say is important or at least humorous. What I don't understand is how to share my thoughts and experiences. Yes, smarty pants, I know all you have to do is type some stuff in a little, white box then press a button, any 5 year old knows how to do that. It's the stuff that goes in the little box that mystifies me. Maybe I just lack the confidence that my thoughts are as important as every other Joe and Jane out there. This is probably going to the biggest struggle going into my new career.
In news regarding things I'm Not struggling with, pretty much everything else. Yesterday I finished recording and producing together my first attempt at a radio program. It turned out to be late 70's/80's alternative music show themed around angst-ridden love songs. Including the music, the whole set came to about forty minutes, which isn't quite long enough even if with commercials added (which is going to be my next project, just for fun). So, to fill the time out a bit more I am going to go back and add a little more detail in my show prep. Include observations on the music, details or anecdotes about the artist, maybe a few more personal anecdotes. It was fun writing the show prep and somewhat nerve wracking. The form is so open and the parameters so broad, I just kind of made it up as I was going. I am also looking forward to re-recording the show after I change up the script a little as my delivery seemed a little woody. A friend suggested that I picture talking with someone I love and trust when recording. This seems like very good advice.
Some other exciting things that have happened...Last time I met with my mentor, Brian Huen, I was allowed to listen in as he and an off-site, on-air talent recorded two upcoming radio shows. This was a wonderful learning experience for so many reasons! As we were getting settled and about to start the session some technical issues arose. I watched on as the station engineer, Brian, the talent and another fellow on the other end all problem solved to get the issue resolved. It turned out that the zephyr (new vocab term!) on the other end had been set to a different output. As for the actual recording session, it was illuminating to watch two professionals work at their art. Brian on his end, listening for what sounds the best in terms of timing, delivery, tempo and content, and directing the talent to what sounds best. On the other end, listening to what will (hopefully) be my bread and butter come from a professional was inspiring. The delivery of the content and minor changes in the script to more accurately reflect his personality were probably the most insightful moments.
Next week I am looking forward to going into the studio again. With me, I will bring a few of the projects I've been working on to hear what the professional has to say about them.
