A local musician explores his retirement and passion for music through a recording arts program
Retirement can be an exciting milestone after years of working. While many new retirees worry about how to fill their days, some have used the extra time on their hands to expand their comfort zone.
After stepping back from working at the sawmill, local musician Marvin Stites proudly began performing weekly with his country gospel band, Old Time Victory, around the community. But Stites desired more from his retirement and saw it as a perfect opportunity to explore his passion for music in a new way. He enrolled in Studio 129, a recording arts program offered by Glenn County Adult Education in Orland.
“They are very good at what they’re doing, especially with their instruction and patience. It made me want to keep getting better.”
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“I’m a guitar player, and I wanted to learn more about the electronics, recording, and mixing of music,” Stites says. “I’ve always had that interest and desire to do it, but never had the opportunity before.”
During Stites’ time in the Glenn County adult program, he learned how to record and mix audio in the studio. Some of his favorite lessons have included learning how to enhance audio tracks with reverb and compression to make professional-quality songs.
“It’s all so rewarding, but one of the most rewarding things was learning how a recording session is set up and how different instruments and voices work together,” Stites says.
He also enrolled in computer literacy courses to help adapt to the technology and expand his computer skills.
“Chris Mullins and Brian Berry are the instructors. They really made an impact on my music and my life,” Stites says. “They are very good at what they’re doing, especially with their instruction and patience. It made me want to keep getting better.”
At the end of December, Stites received his recording arts certificate of completion. He hopes to use his new skills to build a home recording studio and mix his own music.
For more information, visit butteglennadulted.org.
Written by Camille Manantan
| Regions | Classes |
|---|---|
| Northern California | Enrichment |
