The Note Factory Produces Soundscapes

By Laura Cunningham

The sounds coming from Mike Zampi's Shipley's Choice recording studio is more than music; it's the productions of up and coming regional artists who depend on Zampi's experience, talent, and support to guide them into the business.

The recording producer, engineer, and musician began his musical debut when he was just a child. "I remember when I was 5 years old, pulling out pots and pans, and forks, knives, and wooden spoons to play," said Zampi. This quickly turned into more when, with the support of his musical father, he began playing drums at age 7 and guitar a year later.

By 13, he was playing in more than the orchestra, marching, and jazz band when he took his career to the next level by playing professionally in local bars and venues throughout New York. As he grew older, the number of performances increased to five to six times a week in cover and original bands.

Although Zampi earned degrees in business, chemical engineering, and computers, his passion remained in the music field and after a few years as a Wall Street financial businessman, he resigned to pursue music. While he still maintains a "white-collar job" as a telecommunications manager at Sun Microsytems, his true love is with The Note Factory.

"I love artistic expression," said Zampi. "At a certain age there's an understanding of what's important. I'm thankful, anytime I wanted to do something, I've achieved it by figuring out how to make it happen." And Zampi made it happen 11 years ago when, in Wilmington, DE, a few friends asked him to record their music.

The once analog studio was upgraded in 2001 to an all digital studio. The Note Factory has opened the doors for many of Zampi's clients by allowing them to produce and promote quality sounds for a reasonable price. Working close with his clients, he prides himself in his customer service and music quality. "I treat them like Kings and Queens," said Zampi. "Whatever it takes to make them happy customers."

"I get into the artist's head and style and what they're going after and what they want out of the project so I can produce a perfect package," said Zampi. Being a part of the production is exciting to Zampi because he gets to hear and see it before anyone else can.

"Artists have to find a producer and engineer they can work well with, who understands the equipment and the industry," said Zampi. "It's got to be perfect. That's what everyone expects and that's why I provide an all encompassing service." He prides himself in quality sound, fast work, and promoting the musicians through his website at www.zampi-productions.com.

Currently producing seven full-time and seven to eight part-time musicians, Zampi also dedicates time to his own musical endeavors including his recently released debut CD. "No Boundaries" features 70 minutes of music with a variation of genres that include vocals performed by clients.

Zampi plans to produce another CD with his own vocals. "I've taught myself to sing over the past few months," said Zampi. "I practice over and over and I'm starting to find my voice."

Along with The Note Factory, Zampi started Stage Fright Music, a publishing company for his original songwriting, six months ago. A New York music broker has recently expressed interest in Zampi's music for future commercial work.

Zampi's songwriting has improved with the support and criticisms of song circles where four to eight artists present songs and critique the songwriter to sharpen skills and creativity. "It's a great time to see what other people in the industry are doing," said Zampi. Zampi's songwriting has been recognized by national contests. In 2001, he was a finalist in the KAM Songwriting Contest for his country song entitled "Stoppin' For Your Love." He recently earned an Honorable Mention by the John Lennon Songwriting Contest for his blues tune entitled "My Quarter's Up" and rock/jazz ballad named "Because of You."

Zampi also has a hobby creating stained glass with much of his work adorning his home. He hopes to create 40 to 50 pieces and then open a shop in downtown Annapolis to sell his pieces. It seems as though Zampi's talents are above anyone, but the down to earth artist believes it's all in your head, your dedication, and hard work.