Recording artifacts in Acoustic Piano (S211106UN)

[superblonde]

When recording for piano-based instrumental cues with real pianos, how much pedal noise and key noise is either preferred or not preferred? Some pianos are noisier than others, some playing styles can emphasize or de-emphasize the pedal noise (with the compromise of emotionality, pedal noise and key noise can add significant expression in some pieces).

Upright can sound noisier than Grand although the Upright is usually more available (actually the Grand right now would be tough to access since it is in a studio). Mic placement also can have a lot to do with how much noise is picked up compared to the note sounds.

Does anyone have audio clips to point to, regarding noisy real piano cues which were accepted and/or placed?

[cassmcentee]

My guess would be:
Zero noise for "Piano-Based" cues
Minimal Noise for "Solo Piano" cues

[mwb2]

Match what you hear in the references.

[cosmicdolphin]

This is background music for TV so nobody cares really. The people watching Antiques Roadshow or whatver are not listening closely to your piano music like a recording of a piano recital or anything. It's just wallpaper for people to talk over and help keep things moving.

I would just minimise it but don't sweat if there is a little noise in there.

[Casey H]

Although music is generally used way in the background, we still have to get past a few gatekeepers (not just taxi screeners!) who want tracks to be usable in the widest variety of placement opportunities. Don't leave things in that can be a reason to have your track tossed. Screeners, library A&R, music sups all have to be OK with it. They don't always know what the final use/volume level will be. I think Cass hit the nail on the head. The more "featured" the piano is (solo piano piece, piano-based piece), the more you want to quiet the noise. If it's a piano in a cue with other instruments, not as important though you still may want a clean piano stem/alt-mix. You don't have to make it completely devoid of sounds as that could take away from the naturalness of it. But I'd suggest editing down the parts that stand out. Play the track at low volume. Anything jump out? JMHO.

[Paulie]

Try to minimize mechanical noise when possible. If you are using software pianos there is usually an option to control key and pedal volumes. The only exception is if you are going for a truly intimate piece in the style of Nils Frahm, who is known for making the mechanics part of his pieces.