The Beach Staff

Lanny Williamson - Owner

Lanny began his career as an engineer for CHUM in Toronto. After working in Nashville and New York, Lanny eventually settled in Britain working for EMI, Decca, Phillips/Fontana, and Polygram. After working as engineer / producer through much of Europe, Lanny returned to North America to Los Angeles – the eye of the recording industry storm.

After much success recording acts from Black Sabbath to Paul McCartney to Whitesnake, Lanny came to Calgary to open The Beach in 1989. It is his wisdom and experience that continue to make him a sought – after producer and mentor to anyone with an interest in the music industry.

Derek Sylwestrzak - Chief Engineer, Head Instructor – APRA Post Production Class

Derek is a graduate of the Beach’s Academy of Production and Recording Arts (APRA) and has engineered nearly everything for the Beach in the 4 years he has been with us. Our resident Pro Tools ninja, Derek has worked with an A-Z of Beach clients including Ben E. King, Queens of the Stone Age, Nas, Our Lady Peace, and hundreds of others.

Crystal Palmer - Engineer, Chief Instructor – APRA Sound Basics

Crystal is a triple threat. Recording engineer, instructor, singer songwriter. Need a patchbay built? Need some sweet harmonies? Perhaps you have a question about conversion of alternating current to direct current? Crystal is head of quality control at APRA, and adds tremendous depth to the Beach’s creative department.

Natalie Gregory - Studio Manager

What’s going on? Ask Natalie. Natalie knows everything. It doesn’t happen at the Beach unless it has been brilliantly orchestrated by Natalie. She’s the first and last person you’ll see when we’re working for you. Natalie has thorough knowledge of every project and she keeps things running smoothly.

Steve Dodd - Production Designer

A veteran musician, Steve has worked on the Beach’s creative team as composer for 2 years, but recently he has become our Project Designer, working directly with the Beach’s clients. Spend time in a room with Steve and you’ll walk out with a fully realized concept for your project. He can write the music, record it, script it, and deliver it in the format of your choice - and put a bow on it if you like.