Sharing your work is an integral part of building relationships and creating a vibrant artistic career. The following resources can help you develop media to share!

Recordings

All composers and performers require excellent recordings of their work to advance their careers. We have compiled the following resources to guide you in creating and distributing video and audio samples that will let your artistry shine.

In additional to the resources below, the Arthur Friedheim Library’s (AFL’s) Create Media page contains an abundance of resources on audio and video editing software.

Self-Produced Recordings

Self-produced recordings can help you create media in a cost-effective way. Our archived event, Recording at Home, summarizes how to get the most out of your home recordings. 

For a more detailed exploration, you can use your JHED to access the Peabody Recording Arts Program’s Guide to Creating Better Recordings. This video series covers:

  • Part 1 – The Building Blocks Of Sound
  • Part 2 – Room Acoustics
  • Part 3 – Critical Listening
  • Part 4 – Microphones
  • Part 5 – Setting Up A Recording Session
  • Part 6 – Editing, Mixing, and Creating A Final Product
  • Session Video Comparison

Still seeking help? Peabody students can also request a Home Audio Consultation with Recording Services (JHED required.) 

Recording Equipment

The Arthur Friedheim Library has a vast selection of recording equipment available for Peabody students who wish to self-produce recordings. Some devices record audio or video exclusively; others are user-friendly, all-in-one devices, such as the Zoom Q2n. You can view specific devices and make reservations through the Friedheim Library’s Equipment Catalog and view software recommendations on their Create Media page.

Peabody IT has also compiled a list of Technology Recommendations for students self-producing recordings.

Recording Services at Peabody

If you want professional help, Peabody’s Recording Arts program offers complete audio and video recording services to students at competitive rates. Editing and mastering services are also provided. Using this service, students can record in the on-campus Recording Arts studios or in Peabody’s concert halls.

For costs and other information, visit the Recording Arts Department Rates and Policies page.

To explore equipment, printing and knowledge resources, the DMC is a multimedia lab space designed for students interested in exploring creative uses of emerging media and technology to communicate their ideas. For more information, visit the Homewood Student Affairs’ Digital Media Center page.

Resources for Music Distribution

Digital Distribution

In additional to the resources below, the Arthur Friedheim Library’s (AFL’s) Music for New Media Digital Collection hosts composer work samples of any Peabody student for 3 years after graduation. It can be sorted by genre, mood, etc. for folks who may be looking for a composer to hire. And, all tracks can be directly embedded to a personal website! Instructions for submitting samples can be found here.

Streaming platforms boast different features, from membership access to direct artist upload and edit access. This table compares those features across several online streaming platforms: 

Platform Subscription Free Version Downloads Artist Access
Amazon Music Unlimited X   X  
Apple Music X   X  
Bandcamp X X X X
Soundcloud X X   X
Spotify X X X  
TIDAL X      
YouTube Music X X   X
Vimeo X X   X

Distribution companies can also help get your recordings out into the world. Learn more by visiting Who is the Best Digital Distribution Company on Ari’s Take.

CD Manufacturers

Photos

High-quality headshots and performance photos provide excellent content for websites and press materials. To produce photos on a budget, you can use a modern smartphone and enlist a friend or even a tripod for assistance. For tips on producing your own headshots, read the Hubspot’s guide here.

For higher-quality photos, you may choose to work with a professional photographer. A good photographer will help you look your best through lighting, framing, high-quality equipment, and editing. See below for a curated list of local photography services:

Funding

Students can apply for Career Development Grants to help cover the costs of media development. For additional funding ideas, visit our Grants and Awards webpage, or set up an appointment with LAUNCHPad.