****************************************************************…read moreAsk yourself...What is retaliation? I reviewed my experience at Black Dog Studios accurately and truthfully. In response to this negative YELP review, Robert Blackburn has posted a hateful, misogynistic, and retaliatory response. Please read his response because it shows you his true personality and it comes to you directly from his own mouth. [Thank you, Robert!] I stand by my original review: He WAS NOT in the studio on recording day. **************************************************************** As a business owner, in response to a negative review, would you A) reach out to the customer and say, "Let's figure this out" or "I'd like to give you a refund to help change your view of me," or, would you B) retaliate so the world can see your true nature? Blackburn responds with hateful remarks that go beyond any business owner's reaction to a YELP review. This is how he solves problems and it is the exact type of behavior that I experienced from him outside his studio. Read Blackburn's words and consider this, "Is this normal behavior?" "Is his response a rational response?" "Does his solution engage the public to want to receive services at his business?" This is a rare occasion. Here, the public gets to hear--from the owner's own mouth--how truly vindictive and spiteful he is and we see how he copes. ***************************************************************** * Robert Blackburn details his true maliciousness for all of the world to see. His retaliative comments are a direct reflection of how he regards his customers. Now ask yourself this, "If my daughter/son record at his studio and I don't like the results, what will he say about my daughter online?"

Exceptional recording experience from top to bottom. I've completed a few recording projects at…read moreBlackdog over the last 6 or 7 years. I book out full days most of the time, and the rates are very reasonable. Short sessions are available, rates a slightly higher. Most of my recording work has been with their in-house engineer Erik, but I have also worked with Matt, Cal (former) and Sean (former). All characters in their own right with much insight, and many useful suggestions (tone choices, amp choices, mic placement etc). Erik's "sound profile" tends to coincide well with mine, we have a mutual interest in classic, warm analog recordings, so I generally work with him. They have excellent spaces, well tuned and diverse enough to create some distinct and unique sounds. I am a big fan of the Yamaha grand piano, and Studio A is superb for mix work and critical playback. Studio B is good for light mix work, and it's a bit cheaper. The key to success in any recording studio is getting what you want out of the completed product. Studio time is expensive, and not getting what you hoped for can be very frustrating (trust me, it sucks!) I have had no problem getting exactly what I wanted, for a decent price with killer engineers. I'm very picky, and this place is great.

Eastman School of Music is a place you should experience at least once. The building is beautiful,…read moreand the acoustics are truly excellent. That said, there are a few things the venue could improve. Signage for entry is minimal we found ourselves waiting outside in the rain, hoping someone would pass by to point us in the right direction. Once inside, there was some confusion at Will Call, as staff initially couldn't locate our tickets. This was eventually resolved, but the process was a bit frustrating after already dealing with the weather and unclear entry. Something I was not expecting was a three floor walk up....While I managed fine, it's worth noting there doesn't appear to be an elevator, which could be challenging for anyone with mobility concerns. If I'm wrong let me know. A highlight of the evening was the opportunity to meet members of the Silkroad Ensemble, including Artistic Director Rhiannon Giddens. Very cool! These are world class musicians Grammy winners, Pulitzer Prize recipients, and Juilliard-trained artists--and the music, representing cultures from around the world, came together beautifully. It actually reminded me of a radio station I used to listen to in Chicago called "World Beat." On WBEZ or something.... One minor note: the seating could be more comfortable, and a bit more legroom would go a long way. Overall, it was a lovely experience and glad I finally got to visit this venue and it won't be my last. Parking is available via street parking or nearby lots.

Over the years I have attended several concerts at Kilbourn Hall from classical music to Jazz…read moreperformances. It's an intimate hall perfect for solo, small ensembles concerts. The acoustic is very good and there is no bad seat in the venue. Tonight is a Piano Recital that I came to see.