Artist's Statement

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Over the past few years, I’ve recorded over 300 songs for producers and clients, both in-studio and remotely. On this page, you’ll find a selection of examples that showcase my technical abilities and musical sensibilities.

In the studio, many of the parts I record may seem simple, but I approach each project with a selective mindset—ensuring that every part I add serves the song without unnecessary complexity.

I am a classically trained cellist with a Master’s degree in performance from Belmont University, bringing a high level of technical proficiency and deep compositional/theoretical knowledge to every project. Beyond classical training, I’m a multi-instrumentalist with years of experience leading worship, folk, and R&B bands, giving me a unique perspective on arranging for modern styles. This allows me to approach music both as a session player and a producer, ensuring that my contributions fit seamlessly within the broader context of a song.

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When recording sessions from my home studio, I aim to provide mix-ready tracks requiring minimal to no editing. My process begins with a full listen-through to plan voicings that enhance dynamics. I then record section by section, overdubbing as needed, and meticulously edit for clarity—removing extraneous noise and ensuring seamless transitions. I also use Melodyne for subtle pitch corrections, applying careful, invisible nudges while preserving the natural character of the performance. My goal is a polished yet organic sound, free from artificial tuning artifacts.

Ultimately, my mission as a session player is to deliver tracks that integrate effortlessly into a production—adding exactly what’s needed while maintaining the highest level of musicality and professionalism. I treat every project with the same care and attention to detail as if it were my own.

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For session work in Nashville or remotely, feel free to reach out via the contact forms on this website or at:
📧 Steven.a.schumann@gmail.com