AV Solutions continues growth

Before stepping into the high-tech studio, clients get an up-close view of country living. Deer, turkeys and even the occasional raccoon and bobcat visit the studio on a daily basis, as Smith feeds them daily on his property, which is bordered by 40 acres of woods.

Inside the studio, however, high-tech takes over for Smith, who himself plays five instruments and has been a professional musician since age 13.

“I have $300,000 worth of equipment – that’s one thing – but having the ears to hear the difference and the knowledge and experience is just as important,” he said.

AV Solutions comprises Nottingham Recording Studio, record label Tablerock Records and publishing affiliate Wolfsmith Music BMI.

Smith pairs vintage microphones with cutting-edge digital recording and editing equipment to get the desired results for his clients, who range from young up-and-coming artists to established musicians and singers. His work also includes video production, some of which will soon be aired on public broadcasting stations nationwide.

Smith founded AV Solutions Inc. while living in Branson in 1995.

Smith had already been operating his record label, Tablerock Records, founded in 1987, but decided to form the business when he began shooting and producing fishing videos in his spare time.

He moved his business and his family to Springfield in 2000, dissolved AV Solutions Inc. and formed AV Solutions LLC. He founded Nottingham at the same time and added Wolfsmith Music BMI two years later.

Smith, who is the business’ lone employee, offers a variety of services including CD production, artist development, writing services, digital mastering and editing, on- location recording, video production and high-definition multi-camera production.

While he declined to disclose revenues, Smith said business has more than doubled since he moved to Springfield and added more services.

Smith works with all types of artists and has experience with nearly every genre of music, and he subcontracts with musicians when needed for projects.

In 2006, Smith wrapped his first major live video production, “Live In Branson.” The production, a big-band show featuring Al Brumley Jr. at the Tri-Lakes Center, will soon be broadcast on 350 public broadcasting stations.

Smith leased four $125,000 high-definition cameras and produced and directed “Live In Branson” with a staff of eight. Smith oversaw nearly every aspect of the production.

The group filmed two one-hour shows in one day. Smith has finished editing the first show, which required 300 hours of editing and will begin airing in February.

Another client is Michael Brewer – one half of 1970s folk rock duo Brewer & Shipley.

Brewer, who resides in Branson, recently recorded a solo album, “Retro Man,” at Nottingham Recording Studio.

“I would say I would have to rank Gary’s studio right up there with any studio I’ve ever worked with. He has just a great combination,” Brewer said. “It’s really high-tech and cutting-edge, and he’s also such an excellent musician.”