How to Hometape

Help for new hometapers

How do I write songs?
There’s no right or wrong way. If this is your first time and you’ve no idea where to begin try recording some notes or chords, listening back to them on headphones and moaning, humming, oohing or aching into a microphone. When you have some something that sounds ok, record it. You have your first song.
How do I get a clean sound?
  • Close all windows, doors and curtains.
  • Record at night when it’s quiet.
  • Record in your bathroom.
  • Use an external microphone rather than the one in your computer.
  • Try hanging your microphone off something (so you don’t record the fingers touching it.)
  • Search various video sites like YouTube and Howcast for videos on how to record music.
How do I record music on my computer?

There are lots of software options around to help you record music in ways that match your budget and aspirations.

If you’re on a PC, try downloading a piece of software called Audacity

Fruity Loops is a piece of software for PCs that helps you make drum loops and samples.

Macs now usually come with GarageBand. It is quite easy to use and lets you try lots of sound effects, ‘virtual’ instruments and drum samples.

There are lots of more expensive options too, such as Logic for the Mac.

Can I record in other ways?

Yes. Don’t worry about not having lots of equipment or being able to record on a computer. We accept tapes, minidiscs and CDs. Actually, we’ll accept any form of recorded music you can think of. If you want them to go on the site and can’t do it yourself, post them to: Hometaping, 149 Malden Road, London. NW5 4HT.

We’ll do our very best to digitize them and put them on the site. Make sure you keep a copy for yourself if you do – we might lose or break it, or it might go missing in the post.

You could also record your music by calling the helpline on 07964 663170. We will record you down the phone directly and post it on the site. Just an idea! (Someone please do this).

If you prefer, you can record your songs as videos - that’s fine too. Point the camera where you like and upload the results to a site like YouTube. We will link to them from the site if you let us know.