Pre-production is exactly what it sounds like: It’s the process the band members and the producers go through to prepare before the production of the song or album in the studio.Extensive pre-production makes the time in the studio as productive as possible, giving you the best value for your dollar.

Generally during pre-production the producer and the band discuss the key elements of the song or factors that will effect the production like the tempo, key, type of equipment used, arrangement and an overall refinement of the song. The studio should be where all the creativity peaks between the band members and the producer therefore dealing with the technical issues beforehand prevents them from detracting from the creative process.

Typically on an album budget, local sessions of pre-productionusually last between 4-6 hours per song. There will be a general run through of each band members’ parts to tighten any loose ends and arrangements.