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News

December 2013 News

Dec 30th 13

Get Ready for a Great 2014

Paragon Studios will help you prepare for a productive and exhilarating new year in your music career. Our newsletter keeps you updated with events, advice on advancing your music on a budget, recent clients and opportunities for YOU.

Recent Clients

Recent clients have allowed us to stretch our recording skills and use of our multi-faceted facility. A big THANK YOU to all our clients! Including:

CATHERINE VOKES
Catherine Vokes, an opera vocalist with credits at Oberlin Conservatory of Ohio, has been in the Windy City honing her craft. We enjoyed having this artist in the studio-- and it marked one of the first times this year we had a HARP in the 36x24' live room. Vokes is working on audition tapes embodying traditional Baroque and original music.

YUNO FORQUETINA & CLAUDIA VALENTINA
Utilizing the 88 keys on our stately and beautiful grand piano, Yuno and Claudia came in to capture their songs. Yuno took a moment to pose with our Trident board and soak in the history of the studio, while we soaked in Claudia's vocals. Plus, the duo used our B3 organ to add some tasty sounds.

ATHANOR
Featured in the Chicago Sun Times newspaper earlier this year, Athanor has been making music since 1972 and takes its name from the mythological place where wind and water create rain. The group chose Paragon to be integral in the mixing and mastering of Athanor's latest CD. Congratulations to these musicians with a steadfast career making their mark!

SHOWINGTIME -- This real estate brokerage firm is using Paragon's efficiency to create an audio directory of real estate companies. This directory covers companies nationwide, and includes dozens of hours of audio. www.showingtime.com

BOOK YOUR TOUR TODAY ~ Call 312-942-0075

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About Paragon

Paragon Studios, Inc. is also home to the legendary Trident TSM Console #9 used to record artists Art Garfunkel, Pink Floyd (The Wall), Queen, Roberta Flack, Meryl Streep, Little Richard, Elvis Costello and R.E.M. to name a few.

Who We Are

First and foremost, we here at Paragon Studios, Inc. believe in you, the artist, and the music you are making. We listen to your needs and present solutions to capture and preserve your creativity. No matter if you are a seasoned professional or just beginning, we are committed to providing you with exceptional quality in service and product.

We're Team Players

All of our efforts are targeted at creating and maintaining long-term mutually rewarding associations, not only between us and you the artist, but among your entire team. We help you grow by understanding the relationship between you the artist and your support network of Manager, Tour Manager, Publicist, A&R Exec, Booking Agent, Attorney, Record Company, etc.

We've Got the Gear, the Ears, and More

Paragon Studios features professional recording hardware and software from Pro Tools HD and Logic, to gear by Shure and Neumann. Whether you’re going for a clean digital recording, or that classic analog “straight-to-tape” feel, Paragon has what you’re looking for.

In house instruments include assorted electric and acoustic guitars, basses, Hammond B-3 Organ (with Leslie cab), unique Steinway Grand Piano and various drum kits with assorted snares, cymbals and percussion. We are experts at capturing the sound of your own gear and help you polish that personal touch on your tracks.

We're Flexible

Whether it’s a short demo or a full length album, our eclectic studio and productive atmosphere is the perfect fit for nearly every genre. Paragon Studios is a 24/7 facility, including space and studio. Block rates are available, and rates are negotiable to fit your budget.

OUTSIDE PRODUCERS AND ENGINEERS ARE WELCOME!

Call or email anytime at (312) 942-0075 or [email protected] to request a tour.

Your “big break” might just be one professional recording away, so why wait?!

Our history speaks for itself...and we are not afraid of making history!

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Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Downtown Chicago

Paragon Studios, Inc. welcomes Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Downtown Chicago to our family! PSI is now able to offer luxurious and spacious accommodations to our recording clients. Simply secure your recording booking at PSI with a payment in full and you'll receive discounted lodging rates Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Downtown Chicago!

You'll be greeted by Rob Knox and his staff.Amenities include on-site valet parking, Business Center, Copying, Courier Service, E-mail & Internet, Facsimile, PC available, Printer, Technical Concierge, High-speed Internet Access, Wireless Data Connection, State of the Art Precor Fitness center, outdoor Rooftop Pool, In-room Movies, In-room Video System, On-site Guest Self-Laundry Facilities (washer/dryer), Daily Housekeeping, Dry Cleaning Pickup/Laundry, Same Day Dry Cleaning (Monday-Friday), A/C Public Areas, ATM/Cash Machine, Concierge Services, Ice Machine, Porter/Bellman, Safety Deposit Box available at Front Desk, USA Today, Kids Eat Free, IHG Rewards and room service.

In Chicago, there are many choices to meet customers' individual tastes. Sunny's Bar and Grill offers an American cuisine to enhance your dining experience.

Sunny's serves breakfast, lunch, dinner and room service featuring a variety of tasty menu options including sumptuous seasonal weekly specials developed by our culinary team, steaks, chops, sandwiches, seafood, delicious salads and soups to choose from and more. Have a drink and relax in the bar while watching one of the large TV screens, challenge friends and fans alike to foosball or fancy a game of billiards.

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The Paragon Studios, Inc. Collection:

Howdy all, Ned here; thought it would be interesting to add a writer to our e-mail blast. I would like to introduce you to Kelly Milionis. He's been a very behind-the-scenes and hands-on kind of guy here at Paragon Studios. I invited him to write and/or comment on all things creative in the music industry and entertainment business. Please give him a warm welcome!

 

William Kelly Milionis

Thanks Ned! Sending a BIG hello to everyone in our extended Paragon Studios, Inc. (PSI) family! Thanks for the invitation to write and comment on all things creative in the music industry and entertainment business. Really sounds like an interesting idea. And, as theChicago Live Music Examiner for Examiner.com, I am already covering much ado about the Chicago music scene.

I am a fan of all forms of Art, and one who enjoys participating in the Visual, Performance, and Recording Arts. My passion has always been to make a difference; helping someone reach their potential or simply acknowledging that one has a creative gift or talent are my driving forces. I strive to educate and empower individuals of all ages to discover their creative talents and author the culture of their times. I do this tirelessly and most vociferously on a daily basis.

In this second installment of The Paragon Studios, Inc. Collection, I would like to take a moment to celebrate those wonderfully talented interns who have gone before...and have successfully become one of us - one of our 'peers'.

Paragon Studios, Inc. the last few years has really become a hotbed for remarkably talented individuals...interns who have learned the ropes; many times in tremendously difficult professional situations and have moved on to fulfill many of their passions and desires in the creative industries.

Let us shine a light on two former Paragon Studios, Inc. interns:

Brad Pack

BRAD PACK
Paragon Studios, Inc. Internship: Summer 2011 
Graduate 2012: Masters Degree in Audio Production from Central Michigan University, Broadcast and Cinematic Arts

"Since my days at Paragon, I've become an instructor at SAE Institute Chicago. I also work as a live sound engineer and have mixed at venues such as House of Blues, Schuba's, Double Door, Beat Kitchen, and dozens of others. I was also a recording engineer on William Beckett's Genuine and Counterfeit (Equal Vision Records, #5 Billboard Heatseekers). I am a member of the Recording Academy - Chicago Chapter."

ROBERT KOCH
Paragon Studios, Inc. Internship: Summer 2011 
Graduate 2012: Bachelor of Arts Degree in Broadcast and Cinematic Arts from Central Michigan University, Broadcast and Cinematic Arts

"My name is Robert and I'm currently a Sales Engineer at Sweetwater Sound Inc. I provide customers with the knowledge and guidance to get the right gear for their pro audio/musical application. I feel like I wouldn't be where I am now without interning at Paragon. The real-world experience and training they provided helped immensely with landing my new career. Plus, who can say no to an historic console like the Trident #9??"

Let us continue to work together to foster creative expression and provide opportunities for talented individuals to become successful in their chosen craft. Like a small business incubator, together we take pride in developing and presenting talent.

Please feel free to respond with your questions, comments, and concerns, via e-mail, to [email protected]

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Special Events: Don't Miss These Dates...

The Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events is pleased to announce the 2014 dates of its marquee festivals and events.
(click here for dates)

January 26th, 2014 - 56th GRAMMY Awards Telecast Viewing Party
The Recording Academy Chicago Chapter will once again be hosting their annual Viewing Party for the 56th GRAMMY Awards. Be sure to save the date for this annual celebration of all things GRAMMY, and to cheer on your fellow Chicago Chapter nominees! Don't forget to rsvp!

March 22nd - 26th - 2014 MTNA National Conference
The 2014 Music Teachers National Association (MTNA) National Conference promises to be the most "magnificent" yet with an array of sessions, exhibits and special guests. The Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile will play host to nearly 2,000 music teachers, students and industry experts. Highlights of the conference will include a piano recital by Spencer Myer, a conversation with Byron Janis, pianist, and advanced piano master classes by John Perry and Spencer Myer. An opening session featuring pianist Jon Nakamatsu and clarinetist Jon Manasse is sure to get the conference off to a magnificent start. 
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Industry Events Outside of Chicago:

January 23rd - 26th - 2014 NAMM Show
NAMM, the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM), commonly called NAMM in reference to the organization's popular NAMM trade shows, is the not-for-profit association that promotes the pleasures and benefits of making music and strengthens the $17 billion global music products industry. Our association—and our trade shows—serve as a hub for people wanting to seek out the newest innovations in musical products, recording technology, sound and lighting. NAMM's activities and programs are designed to promote music making to people of all ages. Anaheim Convention Center, 800 West Katella Avenue, Anaheim, CA 92802.

February 1st - 4th - 2014 MIDEM
MIDEM is the place where music makers, cutting-edge technologies, brands and talents come together under one roof to source, sell and sign new music, digital solutions and innovative ideas. Today, the music industry is at the tipping-point of a new era of growth. Recognizing this, the MIDEM 2014 program will focus on the theme "Get back to Growth? Make it Sustainable! ", and offer participants essential knowledge and tools to successfully accompany their businesses into this new, flourishing age. Palais des Festivals, Cannes, France

February 15th - 19th - 2014 NACA
National Association for Campus Activities (NACA) was established in 1960 to help increase the buying power of campus programming dollars. NACA now has more than 950 college and university members and over 500 associate members who represent artists, lecturers and performers. NACA offers a wide variety of events, educational institutes, publications and networking opportunities for colleges and universities across the country. The Association's programs focus on program planning, risk management, multicultural education, concert management, student and professional leadership development, student government and more. Through its website, NACA also provides students and professional staff with a number of online programming and professional development tools.

For more information, sign up on our newsletter. Email us with "news" in the subject line, at [email protected]

Update

Nov 15th 13

We have updated our website. If you see or hear anything strange, please e-mail us at [email protected] Thanks.