Wednesday, September 9, 2020

RECORDING CONVERSATIONS - on a budget!



Do you want to conduct an Oral History project to archival audio standard but have only a small budget for recording equipment?

 

Rob and Ollie Willis offer some thoughts on equipment they have used and that won't break the bank. These are only examples of some methods that could work, there are probably many other alternatives and we have tried to keep it basic and simple.

 

We have avoided too much technical overload but are happy for people to contact us if more detailed information is required.

 

The price range of examples is included in the video notes.

 

These examples are from our personal research and use and we have NO connection with the makers of any recorders or equipment.


HOW TO SPIN A YARN - WITH BILL CASE



We often get asked "what is the difference between a yarn and a joke"? Hopefully this video will answer the question as Bill Case (1917-2001) was a master Yarnspinner. John Harpley and I recorded this 15 minute yarn as part of a dance night that Bill played for at Don McBain's Barn in Nelson, Vic. Apologies for video quality but it shows the rapport that Bill had with the audience and how he held them.

 

I heard this yarn twice, the second time being at the Sharing the Harvest concert, a memorial for John Meredith in 2001. Bill captivated the audience there as well.

 

A few explanations - Bill's father ran a Pie Cart in Mount Gambier, SA, specalising in Pie Floaters, young Bill often helped him. Pie Floaters are very popular in South Australia and consist of a pie in a bowl of thick mushy peas. The peas are 'blue boilers' and, if too hard to boil, are softened by the addition of Bicarbonate of Soda, this is where Bill's yarn takes a twist.


Rob Willis