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AXCKSTKY OP SOUND RECORDING
Stars of the silent screen tried out their voices. The period might properly be characterized as one of trial, caution and conservative progress. No one knew for sure the machine, the type of picture or the audience reaction. An outdoor picture or two shook off some of the beliefs that only a sound proof stage would do. A musical comedy added color and life. The advances of 1929, so close behind us, were in reality startling in their value. Nineteen twentynine also marked the beginning of what will one day be the high art of sound picture technique. While Hollywood ended 1928 with 16 recording channels, it ended 1929 with 116.
Education is a form of mental gymnastics. Nineteen thirty finds all those contributing to the further improvement and success of sound pictures exercising vigorously. There is no rest in sight. The electrical industry promises better and better recording. Color is here and is improving. If the film industry agrees to it there will probably be a wider film. The "smellie," the "tastie" and the "feelie" are in the offing. In their cases amplification is not only a problem but a menace. So much for the implements of 1930.
In March, 1930, a class of 300 studio representatives was attending the final section of the Academy Sound School. There is now a trained personnel in Hollywood numbering perhaps thousands who in their daily work have to do with the newly tamed sound. Two years ago this army did not exist.
Last, and therefore most important, is the evolution visible in the artistic side. The author, the composer, the producer, the director, the actor — all those whose talents feed the "mike" — they too are becoming soundwise. Some day soon, perhaps in 1930, a talking picture epic will come along. In that film subtle dialogue, exciting silence, eloquent effects will be blended by director and actor into a never to be forgotten sensation.
Descended from the telephone, the radio, the phonograph, sound is adding its might to the silent screen. The resulting dictator of public thoughts and tastes, giant both by heredity and public appeal, is preempting a rare and influential place in the sun.