Beneath a Belconnen branch of Supercheap Auto lies a space awash with rich musical history. It has morphed and evolved over two decades, changing hands and scope, each owner aligning the facility with their vision. As Sound Underground, Blacksun Studios, and Valley Sounds, it has served the Canberra music community. And now, Peter Wade is writing his chapter with new(ish) Witness Protection Studios. We caught up with Mr Wade to witness what’s-what.
“I bought the business from previous owner, Danny ‘Wolfie’ Elliott, in June 2024 for a little over the replacement cost of the studio equipment. Danny added great features to the recording space, and I saw great potential in expanding the offerings of the rehearsal room. As someone whose only involvement in the music industry was as an amateur musician, this was a leap into the deep end for me. But Danny was very helpful in handing over the reins, and many friends—some through the music community and some I’d known for ages—offered much help.
The first change was the garage space. The first time I saw it, I decided to set up a performance space with FOH and Foldback speakers, stage lighting, et al. I didn’t intend to run gigs from the stage, but make it available for bands (especially those with little stage experience) to practice performances in a live environment. Recording music videos or band photography is another function.
The stage is 5m x 3m made up of 2m x 1m sections to allow reconfiguration. Need a catwalk? I can provide! As part of the ‘Live Stage’ experience, I created a greenroom side of stage to recreate the experience of a gig at The Baso or Smith’s. The Greenroom is also great for chilling out, taking a break, and discussing the next set.
It was obvious early on that we catered to a wide range of budgets, so my next intention was to open more rooms of different sizes with varied equipment included.
Gemini Dreams is a smaller room suitable for a solo artist, a duo, or a trio. Nevermind is our largest room and can comfortably fit a 7-piece band. Both the Nevermind and Velvet Underground rooms come with drum kit, bass, guitar amps, PA, and mics. The other rooms are ‘bare bones’ with only the PA and mics, with equipment available to hire. The aim is to provide options for those who want to save money and those who are happy to pay a little extra if it means they don’t have to lug their gear around.
One exciting development coming to fruition soon is the Nevermind room’s upgrade into a live recording space. I have obtained a fantastic 40-channel mixing desk, which will be installed with associated recording equipment in an adjacent room. Finishing the space off will be a soundproof glass window, creating a perfect environment band recordings.
A great group of regular bands practice in the studio, and new groups always come in. The spaces have been used for photo shoots, recording music videos, and even small private events.
The rehearsal spaces are available 24/7, and booking is easy through the website www.witprostudios.com/. You’ll receive a door code to let yourself in and enjoy your session. If you’d like to visit to see what we can offer you, contact me at info@ witprostudios.com, and any weekend or after hours, we can meet at the studio for the 10c tour.”
Follow Witness Protection Studios on the socials FB: Witness Protection Studios | IG @witprostudios
And FYI they have merch! Grab a t-shirt or stubby holder, a free guitar pick and #SupportLocal 🤘
