Introduction: Descriptions like below always seem awkward. However, I offer something different that a gear list and photos will not show. Please forgive my wordiness. I just want to give you an idea of what working at MDW Productions is all about (and not about)....
MDW Productions is a COMMERCIAL recording facility. It IS NOT a project studio for ME to make MY music. I work EXCLUSIVELY for my clients. I do not do live sound. I do not play in any bands (although I certainly did in the past). My audio focus is music production.
MDW Productions produces music in a wide variety of genres. Rock, Country, Jazz, Blues, Metal, Dance, Punk, Blues are examples of genres that have all come through 2014-2017. Overall- I work with artists of many types.
When you come in- I'm ready. You will not wait around for me to put everything together after you arrive. You're working immediately after you walk into MDW Productions.
The studio will also be cleaned for you as well. I do not believe a dirty studio has "vibe". A dirty studio has a slob of an owner.
I, Michael Washkevich, am the owner and only person working in this studio. What this means for you.... no scheduling conflicts with other engineers using the space, no waiting around while I try to reconstruct the studio after another engineer disconnected gear without making everyone aware. No disappearing gear. No strange people showing up to your session. If I'm available- the studio is available.
I am not about shortcuts. I don't do "quick and dirty" projects. I make great records.
Whatever you need, I've likely anticipated it. I'm all about making it easy. You focus on making great music... I'll take care of the rest. Regular comments from clients include, "you always make it easy".
Your session is mixed right from the start- as we go. We're working on the final sound of your record from the start. There's no questioning what your record will sound like. Mixdown on records tracked at MDW are about taking your record the final 5%, not about turning it into something it has yet to be.
Your project always lives in two places simultaneously and offsite in the cloud. Data backup is a priority.
On average 60% percent of my work at any given time consists of returning clients.
The gear in this studio was purchased with money earned by making records. I don't owe anyone anything but a debt of gratitude to my past clients over the last 20 years. You benefit from my experience, combined with low overhead.
The executive producer on your project is whomever is paying the bill. If that's you, that means ultimately you're in charge. If you hire me as a producer (in addition to being your engineer), I will push you to make a better record. What I won't do is make you do anything you do not want to do. After all- you're the boss. My agenda is making the best record that we, collectively, can possibly make. We WILL collaborate if you want me to produce your record.
What does it cost to make a record at MDW? Ultimately, we should talk to figure it out. However- here are some guidelines... Pre-production can be done a variety of ways, so we'll need to discuss the options. When you're tracking overdubs- you will pay hourly. When I'm mixing- you will pay a flat rate per song. I do not want to compromise the quality of (or amount of time dedicated to) your final mix because you have run out of money. My rates are extremely reasonable and competitive- especially for my level of experience and the level of gear I have invested in to make your record. I do not do a "flat rate per song". I can master your record or recommend an outside mastering engineer to complete the job.
I respect your deadlines. If I can not meet them, I will let you know.
I answer/ return your calls.
I answer/ return your emails.
I answer/ return your texts.
My time is first come/ first serve.
The fridge is always full of craft beer.
Although I am generally working on several projects at any given time, making time to work on your project is likely not a problem. If it will be, I will be upfront about my availability.
MDW Productions is not a full time recording studio, although I work on average close to full time hours weekly. Work is done on weekday evenings and weekends. If you need to work 9-5 during weekdays, I cannot accommodate you.
I have a network of studio musicians to bring your musical dreams to a reality if required.
Bottom line: MDW Productions is conveniently located, manned by a producer/engineer with 20+yrs experience, loaded with pro gear, dedicated to delivering quality records for it's clients, and ready to make your next record.
Making art that will stand the test of time is the greatest thrill
