Sorry, but I am no longer taking on the recording of performances, the business has now closed.

I may still continue with media transfers if there is a demand, so please contact me for details.

Set up in 2006, Audio Recording Live is run by Michael Oates with the aim of providing high quality audio recordings, recorded at your venue. All types of audio recordings can be made, such as (but not limited to): Classical, Brass, Jazz, Folk, Choral, Lectures, the Spoken Word, Wildlife & Nature.

Very high quality equipment is used to ensure your performance is recorded to a high standard to allow CDs to be made to rival those purchased in shops. I don't have a recording studio, instead all recordings are performed either at your practice rooms or during live concerts and performances, hence the name: Audio Recording Live. Of course it does not need to be a live performance, recording without an audience will produce a better recording as there will be reduced background noise and the microphones can be positioned for better effect. You also have the opportunity for re-takes, something you can't do live.

One way to raise money for your band or ensemble is to sell CDs of your music, this also allows you to reach a larger audience and raise the profile of your group. Up to 4 track digital recordings can be made with up to 16 microphones used, so no ensemble is too large. Most of the equipment used is very portable and operates from battery, so location recording, outdoor events can be recorded without mains power.

Audio recording for me is a passion, I therefore offer to make some discounted** recordings for certain events. This would only be for charity events, or young amateur musicians wanting to put together a CV. Contact me to discuss your project and to find out if you are eligible for a discounted recording session.

Based in Prestwich, North Manchester (England), The North West area can be covered, if you are further away, just ask. The recording process does not start when I turn up at a venue, it starts by discussion, often with a visit to hear your music and discuss the project. Planning a recording session will almost always involve a visit to the venue to do a health and safety risk assessment and to make sure the microphones can be positioned correctly, is there a power point etc and to check if the acoustics sound right for the recording, this often means making a test recording. I would work with you to get the best possible recording.

If you don't have a venue suitable for recording in, but you can get to Prestwich, then St Paul's Church (see the piano photo below) can be hired for recording in. All the music that appears on the Prestwich Music Club: 60th Anniversary Collection CD was recorded there. The piano can also be used, a Yamaha.

Please contact me to discuss further and for prices,
Michael Oates, MSc.

Comments by Clients:
"Having researched numerous recording companies to record my bands 25th Anniversary CD, we came across the one by Mike Oates. We thought he looked as good as any, but WOW! What a find. What intriques us is his attitude to recording, it is a passion and he does it because he wants to and not because he has to. His dedication to detail in general and in editing both CD and its cover is unbelieveable and phenominal, his end results are "magic". He has given us a CD which will mark our 25th year in great style. I have no hesitation in booking Mike for our personal duet CD." Ken Farran, Musical Director - Weaver Valley Accordion Band
"Extremely high quality live recording". Nick Oliver, (QUATTROMANI: Piano Duets & Joint Head of Accompaniment, Chetham's School of Music)
"Just thought I would drop you a message to say how much we have enjoyed the CD you did for the Prestwich Music Club. The sound quality is superb. So thanks again, we will treasure the CD and it will remind us of many happy hours spent listening to 'good' music." Andrew and Dorothy Walker.
"I am very impressed with the quality of the recordings you have achieved on the Prestwich Music Club CD. They have a "studio feel" about them, not easy with all the problems, hearing aids feeding-back, squeaky piano stools, etc." John Battye