Recording Studio in Grand Rapids, Michigan
Octave Works is a one-on-one recording studio in Grand Rapids, Michigan, built around the artist—not just the equipment. Working directly with producer and engineer Nathan Tyler Proctor, you'll have a creative partner throughout the recording process, from the first take to the finished record.
Whether you're an emerging artist recording your first release or an experienced musician looking to take your sound somewhere new, the goal is the same: capture what makes your music yours and turn your vision into a record you're proud to release.
At Octave Works, recording is part of a larger creative process. Sessions can include recording, production, songwriting, instrumental performance, and artist development, allowing the music to evolve naturally without losing sight of the artist's vision.
What a Session Is Like
At Octave Works, recording is more than capturing a performance. It's about creating an environment where you can focus on making the best record possible.
Every session is one-on-one with Nate, so you're working directly with the producer, engineer, and musician behind the project. We'll take the time to understand what you're trying to create, identify what's working, and work through anything that's holding the song back.
Whether you're walking in with a fully developed song or just the beginnings of an idea, we'll work together to shape it into something that feels authentic to you.
That can mean dialing in the right sounds, refining an arrangement, developing a vocal performance, adding instrumentation, or simply knowing when to stop changing things and capture the moment.
The goal isn't to make your song sound like everyone else's. It's to help you sound like you.
And because recording, production, mixing, and mastering can all happen under one roof, the creative vision doesn't get lost as your song moves from an idea to a finished record.
Who I Work With
Nate works with artists at different stages of their careers—from musicians recording their first professional release to experienced artists looking for a fresh creative perspective.
I work with solo artists, bands, singer-songwriters, and remote artists who want more than a place to record. Some come in with finished songs and a clear vision. Others need help developing an idea, finding the right sound, or figuring out what the next step should be.
Whether you're just getting started or ready to take your music to a more professional level, I'll meet you where you are and help you move the project forward.
You don't need to have everything figured out before you walk through the door. That's part of what I'm here for.
Recording Equipment
- Manley Cardioid Reference Microphone
- Slate VMS ML-1
- Black Lion Audio Bluey FET Limiting Amplifier
- Neve 1073-SPX Pre-Amp
- Alesis Nitro Ultimate
- UAD Apollo Twin
My Approach to Getting the Best Performance
Getting the best performance starts before you walk into the studio.
Properly maintained and prepared instruments make a real difference in the recording process. I provide a Studio Preparation Guide with recommendations for getting your instruments, equipment, and yourself ready before your session.
Once you're in the studio, my focus shifts to the performance.
I want every session to have a positive, relaxed energy where you can be yourself, experiment, and stay focused on the music. There's no pressure to get everything perfect on the first take. We'll work together to find the right approach, make adjustments when needed, and create an environment where you can give the song your best.
The goal isn't just a technically perfect recording. It's a performance that feels real, connects emotionally, and makes the song come alive.
Pricing & Booking
Pricing is based on the needs of the project, including the number of sessions, the level of production involved, and the services you need.
Before we get started, we'll talk about your project, your goals, and what you need to make the record. I'll provide a clear quote based on that conversation—so you know what to expect before we begin. I don't charge by the hour. Your session isn't a race against the clock, and you shouldn't feel pressured to compromise the music because you're watching the minutes.
Whether you have a single song ready to record or you're developing a larger project, reach out and let's talk about what you're looking to create.
Ready to get started? Contact Nate to discuss your project and schedule a session.