I would give Jacob and ModernTone Studios 10 stars if I could! When my daughter was ready to record her first rock EP at 11 years old, we were referred to Jacob. We knew she may have some maturity issues but he worked well with her and she released a 5 song EP. Not gonna lie - it was harder than we thought it would be (but not because of Jacob!). In the end she pulled it off and learned more than we could have ever imagined. A year later she set her sights on another EP. A little more mature with some experience under her belt - we knew she could do this. Again, he made it an easy process for her. When she had some writers block in the studio working out guitar solos - he would pick up a guitar and work on it with her. This EP turned out so much better than we could have possibly dreamed. I would recommend Jacob to anyone wanting to record music - young or old. The studio is clean and well stocked and he has access to some of the best studio musicians in the area - and around the globe - he found an amazing cellist to arrange and record a strings portion to one of her songs. I think the proof is in listening to the actual songs themselves. Ava Toton is her name and Charm School Dropout is her latest release. If you aren't just ready for an EP but have some ideas floating around in your head, he has an entire team of instructors ready for you to get your material record-ready. Call him. You won't regret it! read more

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Five stars for Briget Boyle! I'll admit, I was skeptical when I saw all the glowing reviews for this studio. But now I totally get it. I just had my very first vocal lesson ever with Briget, and in just one hour, I learned more than I thought possible. She helped me prepare for an upcoming live performance, gave me practical tools and a huge boost of confidence! Briget brings a warm, intuitive energy and truly listens, not just to your voice, but to you. I'm so excited for what's ahead and cannot recommend her highly enough! read more

I had an idea for an album and ModernTone helped me get it done. I learned a ton and had a great time doing it. My record is now out on all streaming platforms, and ModernTone gave me everything I needed to make it happen. Jacob and Brigit are great people to have on your side. Can't wait to do it again! read more

ModernTone Studios - "Leave Us Here" (2024) - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - Lafayette, California

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ModernTone Studio is such a magical music studio that every time I turn the corner off of Mt Diablo Blvd onto Almanor Lane, I wonder if the building will still be there. But every time it is! It is in fact real, and not just a dream. Jacob, the owner, obviously has a remarkable eye for musical talent, awesome teaching ability and all-round lovely people, because both of my teachers are wonderful in every way. Dedrick, my singing teacher, and Chris, my drumming teacher, are both outstanding teachers, incredible musicians and kind, patient and super fun, joyful people. I am so grateful to have stumbled upon ModernTone Studio! read more

I took lessons and played in the band there for a year. I only stopped because I moved out of state. Saying goodbye to the studio and the studio band was one of the hardest goodbyes when I was leaving. Jan was my teacher and he was amazing. The owner, Jacob, was very friendly and approachable. All the employees were incredibly nice and approachable. They all know what they're doing from their instruments, to recording and editing, but they never make you feel intimidated and always happily show you what they're doing to educate you. Everyone should take lessons here. 11/10 would recommend. read more

A bit delayed in my review here. Jacob did a great job of supporting our band in fine tuning songs, laying down tracks, and selecting the right tones. Absolutely would do again. read more

TL;DR: Book your recording session here, now! Stop looking. Recording our band's album at ModernTone was a fantastic experience. Jacob is exactly the person you want behind the board. Kind, friendly, funny, listens intently, aims to achieve your vision. He's also not afraid to give his true opinions and honest feedback. Additionally, he makes solid suggestions that are rooted in his years of production experience, as well as his bad-ass-musician-ness. He's like an unofficial band member. I've been playing music for 30 years. I have recorded in many studios and worked with many engineers, and ModernTone and Jacob are as good as it gets. Go deeper? Okay. The space: You walk in and you can instantly tell that whoever runs this place cares deeply about what they do. It's the attention to detail. It's not gigantic, but it's so thoughtfully setup, it feels like it is. It's spotlessly clean. Oh... and, it sounds amazing! The Gear: Wow! They've got everything you could need in there. Marvel at the unique instruments and effects. Drool at the Les Pauls (not on the Les Pauls, of course). Vintage to modern, acoustic to A.I. However, what good is all that gear if you don't know how to use it? Luckily, Jacob knows the ins and outs of every single button, knob, mouse click and keystroke. Which is also nice because you never feel like you're wasting time trying to figure things out. "Hey thanks for all this info. Where can I check out your band... I wanna hear this recording?!" Thanks, great question. We're called Don't Tell Kate and our album will be out soon. read more

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Jacob Light, from Modern Tone Studios, took our ragged rough hewn Rockslide of songs, all of our rhythm tracks- and used all of his immense talent as a producer and unerringly supernatural engineering ability to encourage, guide, & celebrate the process of completing these songs. All the vocals & guitar tracks, sweet mixes within a few runs, and he mastered it, wrapped it up and sent it to us- super fast. I cannot recommend Jacob and Modern Tone Studios, Highly enough. I'm not kidding around about this. Jacob made, for us, the Most professional, Creative, supportive, and fun recording studio experience we've ever had. Thanks! Mattx & Janet Bergren- Indestructible BLOOD www.indestructiBLOOD.band read more

ModernTone Studios - Indestructible BLOOD having a blast & getting stuff done with Jacob Light at his Modern Tone Studios. - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - Lafayette, California

Jacob is wizard at mastering. I brought him my mix with four acoustic guitars and an electric bass. Far beyond dialing in the correct loudness, he was able to provide a distinct audio space for each instrument. I watched him work, and I know I could never sling all those inserts and effects around like he does. I'll stick to playing, tracking, and mixing. When I want something mastered, I'll bring it to Jacob. Modern Tone would be an excellent space to record in, too. read more

I needed help with some speakers to be repaired and had no idea who to call. On the off chance that they might know something, I called Moderntone Studios to see if they might have a technician who knew something about what I needed. As it turns out, I spoke with Jan Who explained that his business couldn't help me with what I needed But Jan, even though he knew he probably wasn't gonna get me business for me, still researched my issues and found me several contacts to call. He reached out to me several times over several days with info on how to solve my problem. Simply Awesome! If Moderntone Studios, and Jan in particular, put this much time and effort into something in which they aren't going they are not gonna make a profit, I can only imagine how good they are if you pay them for their services! read more

Our kids have been taking guitar and drum lessons for almost a year here. It's a great studio for the kids. They both enjoy playing the instruments more and more. It's great to see their improvement. The teachers are always super patient and fun. Highly recommend this studio! read more

I've worked as a session bassist at ModernTone several times and every day I get to make music there is a good day! Jacob and the team make excellent sounding recordings and have fun doing it. If you need to record music or take lessons, look no further. read more

My band, "Innerstate 80's", had a truly spectacular recording experience with Jacob and his team. They were patient and encouraging throughout the process, and dealt with the many curveballs we threw at them with a positive attitude and a we-can-do-it mentality. Kudos to ModernTone Studios for their hard work and efforts....They really churned out a fantastic product that will enable us to find gigs in our surrounding area. read more

I had made a 3-track recording of a song in 1973 on a reel-to-reel TEAC 4-track tape deck. After digitizing the file (50 years later!), I looked for a mastering service that could improve the quality of the audio, even just a marginal improvement. I contacted ModernTone Studios and they offered to master the recording for a very reasonable price. Jacob Light did an amazing job! My recording sounds so much better than the original analog recording--much more clarity, stereo separation, and detail in the sound--it almost sounds like a contemporary recording! I highly recommend ModernTone Studios. Very responsive, super nice people, very professional, and reasonably priced. Top notch! read more

During the beginning months of the Pandemic my kids both decided it was a good time to take up music lessons. We were beyond thrilled to find Modern Tone -- especially our piano teacher Jessica Winn and guitar teacher Daniel Nevro. The kids have now been taking lessons virtually for about 18 months. Both have made amazing progress, Jessica and Daniel are wonderful teachers who have instilled a real enjoyment of the process for the kids, working with them on their own individual goals and at a level that works for each of them. In particular, we love that we hear the kids practicing on their own accord as they want to show progress to their teachers. Lastly, with all of the ups/downs of the past 18 months the studio team has been AMAZING at communicating changing schedules and working with us to find days/times that are manageable for all. read more

All I have to say is, Wow! My daughter was in a last minute crunch for an audition and we hadn't yet found a vocal coach but we got in to see Briget Boyle just in time and she was wonderful in every way- her personality, her friendliness and her ability to help my daughter choose the right song so quickly for her range. We will definitely be back! It's also so nice to deal with an artistic business that is so organized, efficient, and managed! read more

Though we didn't sign up for classes due to a conflict, everyone was helpful, accommodating to our specific needs, and friendly. The owner went out of his way to discuss options, the studio, classes, and went above and beyond. We will most certainly be back in the future! Customer service and kindness are everything, and Modern Tone definitely showed it! read more

My son has been taking guitar lessons with Jan and Charles for quite a while and they are spectacular teachers. Both are immensely talented and he has learned so much from them. My son recently also did studio time with Jacob and he had the most amazing experience. I cannot imagine a studio with more impressive teachers or better service. I cannot imagine giving a higher recommendation. If your child wants to play guitar-this is the place! read more

Best Podcast Recording Studio in the Bay Area! The Highest Production Quality makes your podcast stand out from the rest! After recording at Modern Tone and working with the skilled engineer Katherine Ayres, my podcast just launched and the first thing listeners tell me is how high the production value is. Everyone is wowed by the sound. As a first-time podcaster, Modern Tone Studios, answered every question of mine in a thoughtful way even though I was a complete beginner. Production manager Briget Boyle helped me envision my project and its process. She is extremely thoughtful and accommodating. I can't thank Modern Tone enough for making my podcast a reality. If you want the best audio production out there, you're in expert hands with Katherine and Briget, and the entire team. I can't wait for my next recording session! read more

ModernTone studios is everything I have looked for in a studio. I've had the chance to work with several of the amazing people that work there, and I have had great experiences with everyone. The staff appointed to communication is extremely responsive, professional and attentive to your goals and desired outcomes. I've recorded several songs there now with both Katherine and Chris, who've also mixed and mastered my songs, and I've also had the pleasure of being taught by Jessica in ensemble group! Briget and Jan have been wonderful point-people, and I just can't say enough great things about this studio. What a hidden gem in Lafayette! read more

Jacob is a PRO in so many senses of t​he word. His ability to find and fix small errors, to juggle competing feedback from the band over multiple takes is astounding. He is fast and ef​ficient but not forsaking quality and sound advice. He really seems to love what he does and it was infectious for our band. We recorded 6 songs over 2 days and love the results. We'll be back for sure! read more

I first started at modern tone taking guitar lessons which were incredible. The studio is designed very well with many practice rooms and then a full on recording studio where you can do it all. Jacob is a music genius and will help guide you to create your masterpiece. Give them a call, they are super nice and local for us here in the east bay! read more

ModernTone Studios - Recording - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - Lafayette, California

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I have been taking guitar lessons with Daniel for the last year and I am very happy. Daniel is very pedagogical and methodological to allow you improve and succeed. Further, Jacob and al showed flexibility and understanding when work calendar is overflowing ( well and it happens ! ). Overall, I am having a fantastic experience in a very professional environment. I recommend hands on ! Olivier read more

My son has been seeing Charles at ModernTone for about a year now. I cannot express how pleased we are with this studio. He loves his instructor and he is progressing wonderfully. We feel blessed to have found this place. With so many things on our ever-changing schedules, I could not thank Jacob & Charles enough for working with us when things have come up. They are very accommodating and responsive. I could not imagine going anywhere else. This place is a gem. Worth every penny and then some! read more

Jessica Winn is a true gift. In a past life, I used to be an opera singer and was terrified to step back into it. I had baggage, imposter syndrome, and internalized fear. She helped me just drop all of that at the door. She started exactly where I needed her to. She's open, warm, knowledgeable, so kind, and enthusiastic. She's turning me into the singer I always wanted to be and never thought I could be. I am blessed to have her in my life! read more

Whether you're just starting out or are ready to record your next album, this is the place you want to go. I've been studying with Jacob for a few years now, and have found him to be an excellent teacher. He has over 20 years of experience as a gigging musician, producer, and teacher, and it shows in all aspects of his work. All the other instructors I have met are equally experienced in their fields. The recording studio is well equipped for anything from voiceover work up to tracking a full band, and Jacob is constantly working on improving the facility. You can tell when you walk through the doors that this is a labor of love for him. Since the pandemic hit, I have been doing my lessons via video chat, and it works surprisingly well. If you're looking for something to break the tedium of social distancing, book today. read more

Bridget at modern tone is amazing! She has been doing voice lessons for my 11 year old daughter for the past several months and my daughter couldn't love it more. It is incredible to watch the improvement and to see Bridgets patience! I recommend modern town and Bridget 100%! read more

I was (moved out of the state, will do remote lessons soon) taking guitar lessons from Charles at ModernTone, and always had a great experience! Charles is a great teacher (and awesome guitarist!), knowledgeable, patient, and friendly. I wasn't a complete beginner, and Charles was able to quickly see where I was at skill-wise and was able to construct lessons and practice routines to suit where I was and where I want to go. I couldn't be happier with the lessons (and the service in general from the staff at ModernTone), and would highly recommend them! Thanks Charles! read more

If you're looking for a voice coach for your child, Modern Tones Studio might be a great fit. Our 11 son is taking voice lessons once a week with Briget Boyle. My son was asking us for voice lessons for a while and since we just moved to the area I went to Yelp to find a local studio. Modern Tones has lots of great reviews and I can attest that it is a quality studio. My son is always excited to go to his lesson. He has been taking piano for years and since Covid started his lessons are remote. Going into a state of the art studio has been a fun experience for him. Briget gives our son homework which we appreciate so that he can spend sometime at home practicing his songs and vocal exercises. We feel lucky to have found a quality voice coach in Lafayette. read more

Can't say enough good things about ModernTone Studios, Jacob Light and guitar instructor Daniel Nervo. We have had multiple instructors over the years for guitar, drums and now music production. Scheduling is seamless, and instructors are passionate musicians who care about their students success. Jacob is timely, professional and personable for all communications. If you are looking for lessons for yourself, or for your kids, don't hesitate to get something scheduled. Bonus: when the pandemic struck, they were able to transition the educational experience to remote learning by video without missing a beat! :-) read more

I've been taking guitar lessons with Jacob at Modern Tone for 18 months and waited to write my review so I could give a longer perspective. First and foremost, Jacob is a top quality musician, professional, and all around awesome person. Along with learning, we have good conversations and I always look forward to my time in the studio. The studio is cool, clean, well equipped, modern, and convenient. I've learned so much about music beyond just playing the guitar. He has shown me his production studio and equipment, shared how he records and produces music. On to the guitar... Jacob has built a progression for me to learn rhythm, lead, and music theory (all my requests). He integrates these into each lesson. I was really surprised how quickly he got me playing whole songs, rhythm and lead. We've bounced around from the Beatles to AC/DC to Clapton to Led Zeppelin. At my request, he takes the time to explain the music theory concepts that drive the lessons I'm learning so I am learning much more than just how to play...I'm learning the why which is very important to me. I have not worked with any other teachers in the studio, however, I can tell you that Jacob has very high standards. We've worked hard getting things that matter right. So I'm guessing that he has applied these same high standards to finding the best teachers as well. I do not hesitate in recommending Jacob and his studio. If you want to learn basics or get advanced or record and produce music, I think Modern Tone is an excellent choice. read more

I'm not an experienced review writer, so I'll just write about a few of the things I like about ModernTone... The location is right in downtown Lafayette and has easy parking with its own lot. The studio itself is well equipped, has plenty of practice/lesson rooms, and is modern appearing and very clean. The impression I've gotten, after a few months of regular lessons there, is that Jacob Light, the owner, is very dedicated to the success of his students. He really wants you to become a better guitarist. I'm learning more theory than I thought I would, and somehow I didn't realize I'd have to learn to read music....but these things have made learning guitar more interesting and are very positive. These lessons are built around songs, too, you are learning songs from the get-go... I'd definitely recommend ModernTone for anyone interested in music lessons. read more

My wife and I recorded a song here today, and it was a blast. Jacob and his assistant Ryan are consummate professionals who know what to do to get the best out of you. They know music, tech and recording. Can't recommend them enough, and we can't wait for our next session. read more

I have definitely hit the jackpot in discovering ModernTone Studios in Lafayette for my piano lessons with Jessica Winn. She's absolutely the best piano instructor. Her classical piano teaching method and style is exactly what I've been wanting and needing. Her vast musical knowledge, kindness and patience is much appreciated. I'm an older adult and wanted to take up learning the piano after retirement. It's a dream come true for me to have discovered a great studio such as ModernTone with a fantastic piano instructor like Jessica. I also got to meet Jacob the owner and Phil who works the office and scheduling. All such kind, friendly and superb people. Their efficient service and friendliness makes my lessons all the more meaningful. Thanks again to all the staff at ModernTone and Jessica Winn for filling in that check mark on my bucket list. I hope to be a student there for a long time. -Deb read more

ModernTone Studios is a godsend! I was looking to get back into music, and I was so happy to find a one-stop shop that offers lessons in guitar, vocals, and drums. I've taken a couple of singing lessons from Stella and one guitar lesson from Jacob. The teachers here are top-notch and are clearly knowledgeable and passionate about their craft. In just two lessons, Stella has taught me a lot about proper singing technique and has even helped me diagnose some bad habits that were holding me back. It's also just fun and a great creative outlet to be able to belt out a song as loud as you want. :) Jacob is an incredible teacher. Just listening to him speak, you can tell that he has a huge amount of knowledge about guitar and a lot of experience conveying it to students. I learned a lot in our first lesson, and Jacob was even able to explain the art of improvising in a refreshing and evocative way. He also assigns effective and motivating homework. Before visiting ModernTone Studios, I had spent a long time spinning my wheels, trying to improve my musicianship on my own and never getting very far. After my lessons with Stella and Jacob, I feel inspired and hopeful that with the right help and practice, I could improve my skills and express myself through music in the way I've always wanted to. read more

Jacob was really helpful when I was inquiring about studio time last year for my boyfriend's kids, who are big into music and music production. Very friendly and responsive to emails. Was able to make several suggestions for something the kids would enjoy while working with my budget. read more

I've recorded songs in LA, Nashville, and now SF, and can honestly say that the experience at ModernTone is unlike any other. As soon as you walk in the door, you're warmly greeted by a number of staff, all of whom are very well accomplished musicians in their own right. The facilities and equipment are all top notch, clean, and well tended making the process extra smooth, easy, and fun. You can quite literally walk in with a napkin full of lyrics, talk to Jacob Light about your ideas for an hour or so, have him rally the troops, and shortly after you'll have the song or album of your dreams beautifully composed and recorded on the best equipment with some of the finest session musicians in the Bay Area. If you've been tossing the idea around to record a song or album, stop reading this review, pick up the phone, and schedule an appointment with them right now. You will not be disappointed! read more

Great space, gear, and sounds. Jacob will push & support you as much as you want. He's always on point, and will help you sound your best, across genres. He's also got a great network of session musicians if there's a sound you need but can't make yourself. Highly recommend. read more

Our 8-year-old son has been taking drum lessons with Tim for 2 years, he enjoys the lessons and always looks forward to learn new techniques from Tim. Tim is patient and knows how to work with younger kids. Jessica is an excellent piano teacher, She is great with kids and knows how to motivate them. My 10-year-old daughter likes her a lot. Jacob the owner is professional and responsive. The studio is well-equipped and clean. I recommend Modern Tone Studios. read more

I found Modern Tone Recording Studios by doing an internet search for local recording studios. There was something in the presentation that made me think I had found the right place so we, The UnConcord, booked a few days with Jacob and his team. I have been making music for 50+ years and been in a few recording studios. Jacob and his team were unbelievable from the word go. He listened very carefully to our music before we even showed up and told us he would get our sound down. Jacob was instructional, informative and an absolute master as an engineer. He also has extensive industry knowledge. State of the art equipment gave him so much control to help us along our way. He knew what to do and how to guide us to get our best sound and really capture it for our CD. He is also a great guitar player so was able to help Robin and I to refine our sound. He and his team also have a great sense of humor and really helped us to relax all the way through the process. After the first day it was like working with old friends. Jacob, Charlie and Jules were so easy to work with. I cannot express what a wonderful experience this was and would recommend Modern Tone to every serious musician who is looking to get their sound down. They are the best. read more

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