Settle the version you will sing
Confirm structure, key and lyrics before exporting the backing track. If several versions exist, choose one working reference and keep the others outside the delivery folder. A small lyric change can affect rhythm or breathing, so rehearse the final text aloud. Mark important entrances, pauses and repetitions. You do not need instructions for every syllable, but you should know where each section ends. An unresolved decision can be handled during the appointment, provided it is a deliberate exception rather than a chain of changes that consumes the booked time.
Make the files understandable
Supply a WAV and a listening demo with names distinguishing the song and version. A backing track with a consistent start point makes entrances easier to locate. Include tempo and key if known rather than guessing. Open the entire export and check for missing endings or an older version sent by mistake. Keep a local copy before using the agreed transfer channel. If the instrumental is licensed, retain its terms; the studio cannot extend the original producer’s permissions. A fresh vocal recording cannot fix clipping or artefacts already present in the backing track.
Rehearse intention and continuity
Practise complete passes as well as difficult fragments. Singing only the chorus can hide transition problems until the appointment. Make a simple phone recording to review articulation and structure; its sound does not need to be judged like a finished mix. Choose a reference that conveys emotion, proximity or energy. Avoid a collection of contradictory references asking for different things. Note where doubles and harmonies might help. Options are useful, but bring a priority too: identify the performance that must be captured first if there is not enough time for every experiment.
Plan your arrival in Madrid
Use the address and arrival instructions supplied with the confirmed appointment rather than inferring a location from an illustrative image. Allow time for the journey and finding the entrance. Enquiry hours are Monday to Friday, 10:00–19:00 in Madrid’s time zone; sessions require explicit confirmation. If travelling from another city, avoid a return journey so tightly scheduled that you cannot calmly review the last take. Mention accessibility or accompaniment needs beforehand. Travel directions should follow the confirmed location, rather than an invented transport route.
Define the delivery you need
Ask whether the booking includes unprocessed tracks, an edited selection or both. For later mixing, 24-bit WAV and a common start point are usually useful. An MP3 is convenient for listening but cannot replace the source files. The quotation sets the first delivery date. Two feedback rounds cover the booked scope; performing a part again is new work. Working materials are retained for 6 months, so download the files and keep your own copy. Specify formats before the appointment, especially when another engineer will receive the tracks.
Leave with a short checklist
Before finishing, confirm the selected take, delivery files and feedback channel. Do not rush decisions that require fresh listening, but write down unresolved points. A list identifying song, section and decision prevents conversations based on uncertain memories. Keep the quotation, terms and instrumental permission in the project folder. If mixing comes next, use the file-format guide to organise the handover. To request a booking, send your objective and preferred date. Enquiries are answered within 2 business days, and availability is confirmed before the 30% deposit is requested.
Final checklist
- Approved lyrics and structure
- Backing WAV checked from start to finish
- Tempo, key and references ready
- Doubles and harmonies prioritised
- Permission to use the instrumental
- Travel and access needs considered
Vocal recording. Contact and booking. Planning a podcast budget.