A Matter of Record

Local musicians looking to practice what they learn can do so at the High Street Music Company.

"Our primary business would be private music instruction in all instruments," said HSMC CEO Louis A. Rieger. "But we also have a state-of-the-art audio recording program."

Tucked between the waiting area and a hallway lined with practice rooms sits High Street Music Company's live room and a control room. The facility offers more than just a place to record, however.

"We have a staff of audio engineers and producers and session musicians," Rieger said. Musicians need not be professionals to come in and record - HSMC provides assistance before and after they enter the booth.

"It's as easy as calling and making an appointment," Rieger said. "We spend quality time with a consultation to find out exactly what the objectives of the artist are. We also help with post recording in regards with what to do with the project, how to package a project from CD design to suggestions on how to solicit different material."

Rieger also has connections with Sony and Universal record labels, among other industry names. At some point, his name may be among them.

"Eventually, we're looking to start an independent label," Rieger said.

The former Epic scout and fellow owner, David Charles started HSMC in December, 2006 at their current location, 135 East High Street. The building was "the universe working out," Rieger said of a previous agreement fell through and left space available.

"As soon as I pulled off Hanover Street and made that left onto High Street I fell in love," he said.

The studio uses the industry standard Digidesign Pro Tools 8 system and is capable of 24-track recording.

"Anyone can come in and record," Rieger said. "We also do a lot of commercial work. We have done audio books - we were a big part of the Pottstown community Christmas CD."

Musicians who have laid tracks at HSMC include local hip-hop artist Dave Vegas, who gained nationwide attention after being featured in XXL, and fellow rapper Sinatti Pop.

Head engineer Mike Hill, a graduate of MontCo Blue Bell's recording program, took to mentoring Pottstown High School students completing graduation products. HSMC hopes to renovate the school's recording study as a pilot program -- funded by the 21st Century Enrichment grant -- for a nonprofit that Rieger is excited to introduce.

"We are establishing a nonprofit entity called, From the Streets to the Studio," Rieger said. "That's primarily to provide a resource for underprivileged students interested in audio production and multimedia. We're working on the application and this will be within the next six to nine months."