
It's not about what I've done for others, it's about what I can do for you! I have toured internationally for over twenty years, produced records in different countries and mixed and recorded full albums here at my studio in Nashville, TN. The joy of music is that you never know what you'll do next and I'd love to hear what you have going on!
Whether it's cello, full string or orchestral arrangement - production and/or mixing for an upcoming single or album, I'm sure we will make it happen! My own compositions have been inducted into the Royal Academy of Music in London as well as been licensed by companies like Google, New York & Istanbul Fashion Weeks & Youtube. Excited for the opportunity to work with you!
Endorsements:
D'Addario
K&K Audio
Coreminded
Ghost Note
Previous:
Takamine Guitars
NS Design
Click the 'Contact' above to get in touch. Looking forward to hearing from you.
Credits
Languages
- English
6 Reviews
Endorse John HanifinJohn is my go-to guy for any project. I’ve been fortunate to work with him on three albums. He is a phenomenal musician, composer, songwriter, producer, and engineer. Moreso, he’s a genuinely great person, and enjoyable to work with. To call John the “Jack of All Trades” would be an understatement. He is hands down the most skilled and talented person I have ever encountered. No matter how big or small the project, do yourself a favor and work with John.
I’ve had the pleasure of working with John Hanifin on multiple projects, and he consistently delivers exceptional results. John is not only a gifted producer, mix engineer, cellist, and arranger, but he also has a rare talent for elevating vocal mixes to a whole new level. As a classically trained vocalist, I can confidently say my vocals have never sounded better on a track. Can’t recommend him enough.
John is an exemplary cellist and musician whom I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with many times. His knowledge, expertise and musicality have been an asset many times over on my projects. You will be lucky to have him contribute to your music. Highly recommended
John is an exemplary cellist and musician whom I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with many times. His knowledge, expertise and musicality have been an asset many times over on my projects. You will be lucky to have him contribute to your music. Highly recommended
I have had the pleasure of collaborating with John Hanifin on several projects. He consistently puts forth the highest quality creative output, and does it in a manner that fits the desired musical goal. His passion for what he does, along with his extreme natural musical gifts, makes John a top quality choice to collaborate.
I have never had a better studio experience than working with John Hanifin. I came to him with a bunch of demos and he made them into something more than I could ever have imagined. He's got a brilliant mind for arrangement and harmony. My favorite part of the process was tracking vocals, where he brought out the best in me and showed me that I could do more than I thought possible with my voice. His mixes are seriously amazing. He did stuff with my tracks that make them larger than life, while respecting the song. Couldn't be happier and I'm so proud of the album.
Interview with John Hanifin
Q: What are you working on at the moment?
A: 1. Anastasia Hayes Debut Solo Album “Two Rooms” with Billboard No. 1 Pinaist, 2. Matthew Mayer 3. Shlomo, Single 4. String arrangement for artists in NYC, LA, London & Rio.
Q: Is there anyone on SoundBetter you know and would recommend to your clients?
A: Of course! Hit me up and I’ll send a list!
Q: Analog or digital and why?
A: Both, Im not biased. Captures are always digital from vocals to guitars, drums and strings… so it’s paramount that the correct mics and pre’s are used, tuned to the room and placed accurately. Luckily… I’ve been mentored by some legends so in that department I can assure you, you’re in good hands (& gear)
Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?
A: What’s the goal for you?
Q: What's your strongest skill?
A: Knowing when to allow the song/track/composition room the breathe. Making sound is easy, respecting space is where its at.
Q: Tell us about your studio setup.
A: When I moved down to Nashville I was fortunate enough to secure an endorsement with my good friends over at Coreminded. Upon arriving, I was met with seventeen 8x2' wood/coustic panels for sound treatment in my new room. The space is equipped with a variety of mics, pre amps, vintage guitars and four monitor sources for a more detailed playback option. Doesn’t have the large console but we can always make that happen if that’s something you’d really want!
Q: What other musicians or music production professionals inspire you?
A: Let’s break it down! Here goes: Cellists: Yo Yo Ma, Pierre Fornier & Jacquelyn Dupre Mix Engineers: Andrew Schepps, Tony Maserati & Serben Ghenea Producers: Finneas, Max Martin & Quincy Jones Film Composers: Thomas Newman, Hanz Zimmer & John Williams.
Q: Tell us about a project you worked on you are especially proud of and why. What was your role?
A: I am especially proud of Anastasia Hayes album that will release in the fall. It’s an immense piece of work. As is “Two Rooms” with Matthew Mayer… that’s a record I never thought I’d get to do in my lifetime. I don’t have any favorites, but I treat each one like it is while working and do my best to deliver all of me to everything I do.
Q: What's your 'promise' to your clients?
A: We'll get it done!
Q: What do you like most about your job?
A: The music and the people, a shared experience.
Q: What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?
A: Look for someone honest who wants to serve your idea but be open to their guidance. The most intelligent people in the world have teams of folks they can rely on.
Q: If you were on a desert island and could take just 5 pieces of gear, what would they be?
A: A satellite cell phone so I could get off.
Q: What was your career path? How long have you been doing this?
A: For over twenty years, hope for many more!
Q: How would you describe your style?
A: Honest and passionate. Everyone has a right to be heard, especially if it's a creative space. No idea is a bad idea unless its a bad idea that everyone's had.
Q: Which artist would you like to work with and why?
A: Muse, thats always been a dream of mine. They have such a tremendous "wall of sound" on all of their records but in the midst of that force, their melodies and upper arrangement motifs soar like they have wings.
Q: Can you share one music production tip?
A: Less is more, and please don't get in the way of the vocal.
Q: What type of music do you usually work on?
A: Whatever floats my way!
Q: What do you bring to a song?
A: Whatever it might need or what is asked of me.
Q: What's your typical work process?
A: Completely depends on the project.
Q: Describe the most common type of work you do for your clients.
A: As of right now, everyday is different which I love! Most days I'll have someone who would like some cello or a strings arrangement added to their piece, from there I'll usually move to session prep for either a mix or if I have the honor or producing someones track get straight into their vocal to better understand the song.

I was the Cellist, Composer, Mix & Master Engineer in this production
- CelloAverage price - $300 per song
- String ArrangerAverage price - $300 per song
- ProducerAverage price - $600 per song
- Mixing EngineerAverage price - $600 per song
- Full instrumental productionAverage price - $500 per song
- Film ComposerAverage price - $200 per minute
- Composer OrchestralAverage price - $200 per song
Most single track projects pertaining to cello performance, string arrangement, & mixing will typically take 24 hours. Production for full tracks will usually take 1-2 days depending on the length.
- Hans Zimmer
- Billie Eilish
- Jelly Roll
- Manley Gold
- AEA N8 Stereo Dynamic Mics
- Millenia STT-1
- Shadow Hills Equinox
- Universal Audio X6 (x2)
- Neumann kh 120
- Vintage Yamaha NS-10