You won’t find Brody Braunstein in Westport this week. He’s in Australia, singing and touring with Staples High School’s elite Orphenians.
Music is the rising junior’s passion. He is also a member of the Fairfield County Children’s Choir, has sung at Carnegie Hall, and is lead singer for the popular band Kill the Chill.
In addition to singing, Brody plays piano, keyboard and guitar. He’s taken college classes in music production software. He’s a published songwriter. And he built a sound studio in his house.
Yet Brody understands that he can’t work creatively alone.
“Technology is great. It’s pretty much given everyone access to the tools they need to make music,” he says.
Brody Braunstein
“But just like in real life, technology in music can be isolating. You’ve got all these amazingly talented aspiring artists sitting in their bedrooms creating music on Garage Band. There’s access, but no connection to other people. No give and take.”
A few months ago, Brody heard Edge say that much of U2’s early creative process took place in the recording studio. The band went in with a vague idea and rudimentary tracks — and emerged with something they loved.
Unfortunately, Edge noted, that does not happen much today. Studio time is too expensive.
Brody — who realizes how lucky he is to have so many resources — had a flash of inspiration.
The result: Studio 8.
It’s a not-for-profit collaborative recording studio for teens. And run by teens.
No, it’s not a full, professionally equipped studio. But it has everything a young artist needs to record, mix and master their music.
It also has Brody to help.
And it’s free.
Brody Braunstein, at work in his home studio.
It’s also just one part of what Brody does. This fall, he’ll begin working with youngsters at KEYS. The Bridgeport organization provides music education to underserved communities.
It’s an amazing group, as Brody knows from previous experience. He’ll work with the choir this year — and hopes he can get them to record in Studio 8.
Meanwhile, Brody invites young people in the area to lay down tracks, test out a new piece, flesh out a cover or record something for a college portfolio.
He’s also looking for videographers, social media experts and sound editors (especially those into rap or EDM) to join Studio 8.
Brody is Down Under until July 21. Once he’s back, you can reach him by email: Studio8Collaborative@gmail.com.
(Studio 8 is free — but donations to the KEYS program are gratefully accepted. Use Brody’s email above for more information.)
what an amazing opportunity for young musicians to get into a studio and to experiment with their work.
Seth and Sara Braunstein must be so proud of this fine young man. What talent and what character! Keep up the great work Brody.
I know Seth Braunstein from the RTM. He is an incredibly bright man. I am not surprised to learn that Seth co-produced such an incredible son with Sara. What a talented young man! The Braunsteins should be very proud!!!! ~ . Kristan Hamlin