Three years ago, Steve Fishell, a one-time member of Emmylou
Harris’ Hot Band and later a producer of a number of cool country and Americana
acts, launched the Music Producers Institute in Nashville.
It was a studio with a twist. Fishell’s business model gave
artists an economical way to record a new album, while inviting recording
students and fans to pay tuition and watch the recording process in person.
MPI recording sessions have featured Kris Kristofferson, Delbert
McClinton, Poco, Radney Foster, Raul Malo, Robert Earl Keen, Todd Snider, Jace
Everett, Jerry Douglas, Rodney Crowell, Asleep at the Wheel and the reunited Foster
& Lloyd.
In an innovative move, MPI is now releasing videos showing
highlights of the sessions. The first release features new Bluegrass Hall of
Fame member Del McCoury recording tracks for “Old Memories: The Songs of
Bill Monroe, ” due to be released on Sept. 27.
The price is certainly right. Viewers can access the 65-minute video for $4.99, and even share a second viewing with a friend. You’ll find details at the MPI site.