
When Roy Clark Stepped Up to the Plate for Tulsa
Roy Clark wanted to be a ballplayer. At 18, he had a chance to try out for the St. Louis Browns. It




The Church Studio Institute offers hands-on, workforce-focused audio engineering and music production training inside Tulsa’s historic, fully operational Church Studio, combining online and in-person learning with real-world studio experience.
Celebrate with us at Tunes @ Noon—happening every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Come for the live music, stay for the drinks, and show some love to Tulsa’s local musicians.

The Church Studio offers both analog and digital recording options in a state-of-the-art facility.

Join one of the most respected musical landmark member communities.
The historic church was turned into a recording studio and home office to Shelter Records in 1972. Under Leon Russell’s leadership, the stone structure served as a creative workshop for songwriters, musicians, engineers, and singers to collaborate, learn, and inspire.
Founded Studio in 1972
THE TULSA SOUND
Rockabilly, Country, Rock ‘n’ Roll, and Blues
Although they had different musical gifts, Leon Russell and fellow Oklahoman JJ Cale, are credited for developing the “Tulsa Sound”. This genre is described by many to be a laid-back style of blues, country, and rock that helped shape Southern-style rock-and-roll. The most notable, non-Okie— example of the Tulsa Sound is Eric Clapton. Others believe the “Tulsa Sound” is more of a brotherhood or collaboration of creatives that honor those musical pioneers that came before them.

Roy Clark wanted to be a ballplayer. At 18, he had a chance to try out for the St. Louis Browns. It

Discover the artists featured in The Church Studio’s Tunes @ Noon concert series, Tulsa’s signature midday live music experience. Tunes @ Noon

Leon Russell, 45 Years Apart: The Story Behind the Lenticular Print Near the Archive at The Church Studio, there’s a portrait of
The Church Studio’s mission is to support, educate, and inspire with an iconic recording facility, interpretive exhibits, and public programs.. Learn more about our nonprofit mission →