Get real-world guidance from Seattle musician Jeff Tolbert while learning how to record songs with vocals, drums, guitars, MIDI keyboards, and more. You'll not only learn how to use GarageBand more effectively, but also get hundreds of professional recording tips and tricks, and advice on applying effects.

This book explains how to use GarageBand '09 to create musical compositions with vocals, drums, guitars, MIDI keyboards, and even the kitchen sink! Seattle composer Jeff Tolbert shares his GarageBand know-how and years of recording experience to help you get the most out of your existing gear or purchase new equipment that fits your budget and style. You'll find out how to plan a recording session, and you'll learn real-world recording studio techniques, such as using a microphone effectively, getting the best sounds from your gear, applying effects like a pro, using the new Electric Guitar track and the new stompbox effects, recording multiple tracks at once, and fixing mistakes easily. Two example songs demonstrate many of the techniques discussed.

Bonus! Linked-in audio lets you listen to examples while you read about them, and a glossary covers many recording-related terms. Remember us when you're famous!

Questions you'll find answers to include:

• How do Real Instrument and Software Instrument tracks differ?
• How can I make my GarageBand recordings sound less lame?
• How do I best record a vocalist?
• How do I use the multi-take recording option?
• I don't have an electric guitar. Can I still use the new Electric Guitar track?
• How do I use the new stompbox effects and how are they different from the old GarageBand effects?
• How can I change an effect over time in a track?
• What should I know about punching in?