One of the great joys of bringing together singers from all over is the chance to discover new songs. We want to encourage people to learn songs from one another without compromising the experience of singing together in the moment. In that spirit, Raise the Rafters has decided to allow limited recording at the event with the following guidelines:
- Recording audio snippets of songs (i.e. a couple of verses and chorus) for personal use so that you can remember the song is permitted, unless stated otherwise. We strongly encourage you to speak to the singer after and let them know that you recorded their song to learn it – this is a great opportunity to let them know how much you loved it and to find out more about it!
- If someone requests that you do not record, stop recording, or delete a recording, politely respect their request and do so immediately. No explanations are required or expected. Remember to thank them for singing a song that you enjoyed so much.
- Please do not post any recordings taken at RTR online, unless it is explicitly stated that you may do so (i.e. during the staff concert). We understand the desire to share the energy of a room rockin’ with powerful harmonies, but we want everyone to feel free to try new things and improvise and sing with all their hearts without worrying that every note will be immortalized for the world to hear.
- Please refrain from taking video recordings of the song leader or the rest of the room during a song. It can be jarring to suddenly find yourself staring into a camera or phone lens when leading. It can also change the whole focus of a room when people realize they’re on camera, and that does a disservice to the song leader, the song itself, and everyone who is sharing the experience in the moment.
- Some rooms or particular sings may be labeled as “No Recording.” We ask that you respect these spaces, leave all recording devices off, and do not put anyone on the spot by asking permission to make an exception.