Great Blue Heron Recording Studio

Recording Artist: Eric LeClair

Finding Balance: Overcoming Challenges in Music Mixing and Restructuring

9/5/20252 min read

black Pioneer DJ turntable
black Pioneer DJ turntable

Introduction: The Struggles of Mixing Music

As an aspiring musician, every week can feel like a journey fraught with challenges. Recently, I've encountered a particularly rough week while mixing my songs. It's important to acknowledge that mixing music encompasses a myriad of factors that can often lead to frustration. Despite this, there is a silver lining: the more I practice, the closer I get to mastering the art of sound. However, the process is not without its hurdles.

The Dichotomy of Performance and Recording

When I perform my songs live, I embrace the raw emotion and energy of the moment. I can feel the music coursing through me, and it often resonates well with the audience. Yet, every time I listen to my recordings, an unsettling wave of discomfort washes over me. Why is it that the same songs that ignite passion on stage seem to falter in the studio? This leads to a realization: I must take a critical look at my compositions. Some of them might benefit from restructuring to elevate their overall sound quality.

Simplifying and Finding Time for Music

In my quest for improvement, I've begun to wonder if simplifying my songs could lead to a more polished sound. Perhaps narrowing down the arrangement to just voice and guitar would allow me to focus on the essentials, making mixing a more manageable process. This minimalistic approach could not only streamline my workflow but also highlight the core emotions embedded in my music.

Another significant challenge in my journey is the delicate balance between family, work, and music. With so many responsibilities competing for my attention, carving out time for restructuring and refining my tracks can feel nearly impossible. Finding a way to harmonize these aspects of my life is crucial. This balance will provide the necessary space to breathe life into my projects while maintaining my commitments to family and work.

Conclusion: A Path Forward

The path to mastering music mixing is often laden with frustration, but it's also filled with learning opportunities. Through reflection, I've identified key areas that require my attention, such as song restructuring and simplification. Moreover, I understand the importance of incorporating time management strategies to coexist with my family and professional life.
In the face of challenges, each step taken with intention furthers my growth as a musician. As I navigate this intricate process, I remain hopeful that with perseverance and creativity, I will be able to improve both my mixing skills and the overall quality of my songs.