Session Guitarist

Q: Tell us about a project you worked on you are especially proud of and why. What was your role?

A: One project I’m particularly proud of is working on the song "Diversi" by Ventidue. My role was to produce and record all the electric guitar tracks, both clean and distorted. The project was special because it allowed me to blend different styles and showcase my versatility. I collaborated closely with the producer to ensure every note captured the right emotion and vibe. The end result was a track that resonated deeply with listeners and added a unique touch to the overall composition. Being part of such a creative and successful project is incredibly rewarding and reminds me why I love what I do. 🎸✨

Q: What are you working on at the moment?

A: Right now, I'm immersed in a couple of projects that showcase the breadth of my passion. I'm collaborating with a talented producer on an acoustic pop track, infusing it with warm, melodic guitar lines. Simultaneously, I'm crafting some electrifying riffs for a high-energy pop punk beats. Each project offers a unique challenge and an opportunity to push my creative boundaries. It's this variety that keeps my work exciting and fulfilling. 🎸✨

Q: Is there anyone on SoundBetter you know and would recommend to your clients?

A: Yes, I can recommend a few talented artists on SoundBetter: Davide Russo: An official remixer for The Chainsmokers and Marshmello, Davide has over 40 million streams and extensive experience in music production. Marco Donnarumma: Known for his work with Universal Music, BBC One TV, and David Guetta, Marco is a highly skilled mastering engineer. Silke: A versatile session singer, songwriter, and composer with a unique tone and a track record of working with top-tier clients. Antonio Ruscito: An electronic music producer and film music composer who has collaborated with major platforms like Afterlife and Netflix. Simone Guida: A producer and mastering engineer with over 15 years of experience, working with artists like Justin Jesso and labels like Sony Music. These artists have consistently delivered high-quality work and have received excellent feedback from clients. I believe they would be great additions to any project.

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: Definitely digital. The versatility and convenience of digital equipment are unparalleled. With digital, I can achieve a wide range of sounds and effects that analog simply can't match, all while maintaining a high level of consistency. Plus, the ability to easily edit, mix, and share recordings digitally saves a ton of time and enhances collaboration with clients and producers worldwide. 🎸✨

Q: What's your 'promise' to your clients?

A: My promise to my clients is to bring unwavering dedication, top-notch quality, and heartfelt passion to every project. I commit to understanding your vision and delivering guitar tracks that elevate your music, ensuring clear communication and unlimited revisions until you're completely satisfied. Your music is my priority, and I treat each project with the care and precision it deserves. 🎸✨

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: What I love most about my job is the opportunity to collaborate with incredible musicians and bring their visions to life. There’s something truly special about contributing to a piece of music that resonates with people and evokes emotions. The creative process, from the initial idea to the final recording, is always thrilling. Each project is unique, and I get to push my boundaries and explore new sounds and techniques. Plus, the sheer joy of playing guitar and sharing my passion with others is immensely rewarding. 🎸✨

Q: What questions do customers most commonly ask you? What's your answer?

A: Here are a few frequently asked questions and my typical responses: Q: How long will it take to complete the recordings? A: It usually depends on the complexity of the project, but I strive to deliver within one to two weeks. I always keep clients updated on progress to ensure we meet deadlines smoothly. Q: Can you match the sound/style of a specific artist or song? A: Absolutely! Just provide me with reference tracks, and I’ll tailor my recordings to match the desired sound and style as closely as possible. Q: What equipment do you use for recording? A: I use high-quality gear, including Neumann and Shure microphones, Universal Audio interfaces, and a range of electric and acoustic guitars from top brands like Fender. Q: Are revisions included in the service? A: Yes, I offer unlimited revisions to make sure you’re completely satisfied with the final product. It’s crucial to have clear project ideas to avoid unnecessary stress. Q: Do you work remotely? A: Yes, I often work remotely with clients from all over the world. Thanks to my professional recording setup, I can deliver top-notch quality as if we were in the same studio. These are some common questions, but I'm always ready to address any specific concerns or inquiries clients might have. 🎸✨

Q: What's the biggest misconception about what you do?

A: The biggest misconception is that being a session guitarist is just about playing a few notes and calling it a day. In reality, it’s a deeply collaborative and creative process. It involves understanding the artist's vision, capturing the right tone and emotion, and often providing multiple takes to achieve the perfect sound. It's about adding value to the music, ensuring every track shines, and delivering polished, professional recordings. The dedication and passion behind every note are what make this job so rewarding. 🎸✨

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: Great question! When I'm onboarding a new client, I focus on understanding their vision and needs. Here are some key questions I ask: Can you describe the overall feel and style you want for your project? This helps me align my playing with their artistic vision. Do you have any reference tracks or artists that inspire the sound you’re going for? This gives me a concrete idea of the sonic palette they’re aiming for. What specific role do you envision the guitar playing in your track? Whether it's leading, rhythm, or ambient textures, this ensures I hit the mark. Are there any particular techniques or effects you want to incorporate? Understanding their preferences for things like fingerpicking, palm muting, or specific effects pedals can guide my approach. What’s your timeline for the project? Knowing deadlines helps me prioritize and manage my workflow effectively. How many revisions are you comfortable with? This sets expectations for the revision process and helps avoid misunderstandings. These questions help me tailor my approach to fit the client's unique needs and ensure a smooth, collaborative process. 🎸✨

Q: What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?

A: Great question! Here’s some advice for finding the right session guitarist: Listen to Samples: Always check out their previous work. This will give you a sense of their style and versatility. Check Reviews and References: See what other clients have said about their work. Positive feedback from past collaborations is a good indicator. Communication is Key: Make sure they’re responsive and open to discussing your project’s specifics. Good communication leads to better results. Discuss Expectations Clearly: Be clear about what you need, including deadlines and revisions. This helps avoid misunderstandings. Evaluate Their Equipment: High-quality recordings require high-quality gear. Ensure they have professional equipment. Passion and Professionalism: Look for someone who is passionate about their work and maintains a professional approach. This combination often results in the best outcomes. Finding the right provider is about aligning your vision with their expertise. Choose someone you feel comfortable working with and who understands your musical goals. 🎸✨

Q: If you were on a desert island and could take just 5 pieces of gear, what would they be?

A: Choosing only five pieces of gear for a desert island is a challenge, but here’s my dream setup: My acoustic guitar: Versatile, doesn’t need electricity, and perfect for those island vibes. My Laptop: To capture inspiration and ideas on the go. Multi-Effects Pedal: Such my Helix XL stomp pedalboard, with a variety of effects to keep things interesting. Solar-Powered Charger: To keep my gadgets running smoothly. Notebook and Pencil: For songwriting and jotting down ideas. With these essentials, I’d be all set to create music even in the most secluded paradise. 🎸🏝️

Q: What was your career path? How long have you been doing this?

A: My career path has been a journey fueled by passion and dedication. I started playing guitar at a young age, captivated by the power of music. Over the years, I honed my skills through countless hours of practice and performances. I began collaborating with local bands and producers, which opened the door to more professional opportunities. For several years now, I have specialized in recording both electric and acoustic guitars, working closely with emerging producers. My experience in the studio has allowed me to develop a keen ear for detail and a deep understanding of the recording process. This blend of technical expertise and creative intuition has defined my career and allowed me to make meaningful contributions to a wide range of music projects. It's been a rewarding path, and I can't wait to see where it leads next. 🎸✨

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: I would describe my style as a fusion of technical precision and emotional depth. I focus on creating guitar tracks that not only sound technically impressive but also evoke a strong emotional response. My playing is versatile, covering genres from rock to pop, always with an eye on melody and feeling. I aim to bring a unique voice to each project, blending intricate solos with powerful rhythm parts, and always striving to enhance the overall musical experience. 🎸✨

Q: Which artist would you like to work with and why?

A: I would love to work with Machine Gun Kelly. His versatility and mastery over different guitar styles, from pop punk to rock, are truly inspiring. Collaborating with him would be an incredible opportunity to blend our distinct sounds and create something truly unique and magical. His approach to songwriting and guitar playing is both innovative and emotionally resonant, which aligns perfectly with my passion for creating music that touches the heart and soul. 🎸✨

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: Absolutely! Here’s a key tip for guitar production: experiment with mic placements. The position and angle of your microphone can drastically affect the tone and character of your guitar recordings. Try placing the mic at different distances and angles from the amp or acoustic guitar. For example, placing the mic closer to the center of the speaker cone will capture a brighter, more direct sound, while moving it towards the edge will give you a warmer, more diffuse tone. Don’t be afraid to experiment until you find the sweet spot that suits the song. 🎸🎙️

Q: What type of music do you usually work on?

A: I work on a diverse range of music genres, from rock and pop to indie and acoustic folk. Each genre has its own unique character, and I enjoy the challenge of bringing out the best in each one. Whether it’s the raw energy of rock, the catchy hooks of pop, the soulful melodies of indie and pop punk, I bring my passion and expertise to every project. Variety keeps my work fresh and exciting, allowing me to constantly explore new sounds and techniques. 🎶✨

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: My strongest skill is my ability to blend technical proficiency with deep emotional expression. Whether it’s nailing a complex solo or creating a soulful rhythm, I can convey a wide range of emotions through my guitar. This combination of precision and passion allows me to bring out the best in every track, ensuring that the music not only sounds professional but also resonates with listeners on a deeper level. It’s this synergy that sets my work apart and makes each project unique. 🎸✨

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: I bring a unique blend of technical skill and emotional depth to every song I work on. My goal is to create guitar tracks that not only sound great but also resonate with listeners on a deeper level. I focus on capturing the essence and vibe of each track, whether it’s an acoustic piece that needs a gentle, melodic touch, or an electric anthem that demands energy and drive. My extensive experience and passion for music ensure that every note I play adds value and character to the project. It’s about creating something memorable and powerful, every time. 🎸✨

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: My typical work process is a blend of meticulous planning and creative spontaneity. Initial Consultation: I start by discussing the project's vision with the client. Understanding their goals, musical style, and any specific requirements is crucial. Pre-Production: Next, I plan out the structure of the guitar parts. This involves selecting the right guitars and amps, and sometimes creating rough drafts or demos. Recording: The magic happens here. I record multiple takes to capture the best performances. Each take is carefully reviewed, ensuring the best sound quality and emotional impact. Editing and Mixing guitar sound: Once the recordings are done, I move on to editing. This includes fine-tuning the audio, adding effects, and balancing the guitar sound. This step ensures the track is polished and professional. Review and Revisions: I send the edited tracks to the client for feedback. I offer unlimited revisions to ensure the final product meets their expectations perfectly. Final Delivery: After making any necessary adjustments, I export the tracks in .wav format and deliver them to the client, ready for use in their projects. Throughout the process, communication is key. I make sure to keep the client updated and involved at every step, ensuring a smooth and satisfying collaboration.

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: My studio setup is a blend of cutting-edge technology and vintage charm. I've invested in top-tier equipment to ensure every note is captured with pristine clarity. Here's a glimpse: Guitars: I have a range of electric and acoustic guitars, from classic Fender, Gibson and PRS to custom-built models that add a unique flavor to each track. Amplifiers: My collection includes vintage tube amps for that warm, rich sound and modern digital amps that offer unparalleled versatility. Recording Gear: I use high-quality microphones like the Aston Microphones Spirit for acoustic recordings and Shure SM57s for amps. My audio interface is a top-of-the-line Universal Audio 476p, ensuring impeccable sound quality. Software: I rely on industry-standard DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations) like Reaper, alongside a suite of plugins for producing guitar sounds. Acoustic Treatment: My studio is acoustically treated to minimize unwanted noise and ensure a balanced, clear sound. Each piece of gear is chosen to bring out the best in my guitar recordings, making sure every project sounds its absolute best. 🎸🎛️

Q: What other musicians or music production professionals inspire you?

A: I'm inspired by a plethora of talented musicians and producers. For instance, the legendary guitar work of Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton always fires up my creativity. Their ability to blend emotion with technical prowess is something I strive to emulate in my recordings. On the production side, I admire Rick Rubin for his minimalist approach and ability to bring out the best in artists, and Quincy Jones for his impeccable attention to detail and innovative soundscapes. These icons, among many others, remind me of the endless possibilities within music and push me to elevate my game every time I step into the studio. 🎶✨

Q: Describe the most common type of work you do for your clients.

A: The most common type of work I do involves recording custom guitar tracks for various music projects. Clients approach me with their song ideas, whether it's an acoustic ballad or an electrifying rock anthem. I bring their visions to life with high-quality, professional recordings. I collaborate closely with producers to ensure the sound is just right, editing and fine-tuning the audio to perfection. It's not just about playing notes, it's about adding that unique, emotional touch that makes a track stand out. Every project is a new adventure, and I treat each one with the care and passion it deserves. 🎸✨