Being able to record the work of young musicians is beneficial on a number of levels. From an educational standpoint, listening to recordings of rehearsals and performances can provide students with many different opportunities for critical evaluation and enhanced learning. The growth of digital music distribution in the past decade has sparked a greater general interest in the art and craft of recording, leading to the creation of audio engineering courses at community colleges and universities all over the country. A few secondary schools are also picking up on this and beginning to offer courses in those areas. Students at these schools can walk away with a certificate in the recording arts, as well as an extensive portfolio of their own work to show to potential colleges and employers. Even if one's school has no interest in starting a full-scale recording arts class, the inclusion of a recording facility can be a huge benefit to the musicians that practice within its walls. And all it really takes is a computer, a microphone, and the right motivation.