A Retreat Setting
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A RURAL LOCATION
Ancient Wave Studios is located in a rural setting in the Sierra foothills, just outside the historic town of Nevada City, California. We offer musicians and artisans a deeply comfortable, inspiring and creative environment both indoors and in nature. Every detail was thoughtfully designed to hold and support our guests. With an emphasis on the creative process, we're dedicated to helping musicians and songwriters achieve their highest potential for their art. We have evolved a 'trust yourself' philosophy, with experienced, but gentle guidance and support if requested. 
Built on a 3-acre apple farm, with organic gardens, our grounds and buildings are beautifully appointed with hand-crafted pathways and stairwells. Reflection ponds, pagodas and sitting areas, connect gardens, studios and accommodations.
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Who We Are
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A MUSICAL MARRIAGE
Saul and Elena Rayo share a rare musical marriage. Individually and together, they have released many albums of their original songs and performed countless concerts. Saul, as an artist of political scope, has made it his mission to educate himself, his band members, as well as his audiences, with the results of his research into the counter-culture movements for many years. Classically trained and educated in ancient literature, Elena has made it her mission to sing her authentic voice in her original songs that crack open the heart. She is very much enjoying being in musical partnership with Saul, which has greatly enhanced her creativity and confidence.   |
Testimonials |
ANCIENT WAVE STUDIOS
As I drove onto the grounds of Ancient Wave Studios, I immediately sensed that I was in good hands. I took a deep breath, absorbing the beauty and order around me. It’s in no way fussy or ostentatious, simply functional while also being lovely. Saul’s wife and musical partner, Elena, has dubbed where they live and work a “temple of song,” and it’s an apt phrase. This is a temple where you laugh, work and make a joyful noise. Top-of-the-line equipment—from mics to speakers, and iso booth to mixing board, shares space with oriental rugs and beautiful art. (There’s also a well-stocked, light-filled kitchen.) Saul and Elena, and their brilliant team, create an enormously welcoming atmosphere and take good care of their clients in every imaginable way. I can’t wait to get back in there and record the next songs. SAUL RAYO, PRODUCER
As Saul and I began to talk about my CD, he dug into not only the songs, but how I might sing them. He really heard the songs and understood—in some cases unexpectedly—what we could do make them soar. When my confidence flagged, he brought me tea and talked me through; he is endlessly kind and deeply thoughtful. The studio itself, Ancient Wave, is a reflection of his aesthetic sense, his craftsmanship, and his care. He suggested several musicians, whose talents I am delighted to have on the album, and he engaged, brilliantly, with those I brought with me. He’s assembled a topnotch team; in my case, Bruce Wheelock engineered, and Oz Fritz mixed and mastered. I was thrilled with the result. It says a lot, I think, that in the process of creating RUSTLER'S MOON, Saul became both mentor and cherished friend. –Sands Hall, singer, songwriter, director, actor WONDERFUL PERSONALITY
Aside from the quality equipment, beautiful architecture, and location, it's the attitude and personality of the people involved that makes a studio worth working at. Ancient Wave has all of the above with wonderful personality. Just a great place to be. –Austin James Hicks, musician |
