Jul 24, 2005
Posted by Mike in Audio Production,Uncategorized,Video Production
0 Comments

The Sun will come out…Tomorrow

I had the treat of watching a local non-profit theater troupe put on their version of “Annie” last night at the local high school and I must admit that it was one of the best put on local performances I have been to in a long time. For a small troupe staffed with volunteers the sets were minimal and effective and get this: There was a live pocket orchestra in the pit (or at least in front of the stage). You always seem to forget just how much talent is located right in your backyard.

Back to the live orchestra though…There’s something about live music for any event that just makes it better. Nothing is more boring than going to any live event be it theater or dance or for that matter a 4th of July celebration and being punished by someone’s collection of MP3 files blaring out of a laptop hooked to a power amp and a couple of speakers on 5 foot stands. But put a live group of musicians together and magic happens. The music becomes part of the event, not just an an afterthought. I like to even hear a sax squeak or a guitarist blow a run sometimes just because 1) it reminds everyone that they’re human and 2) I love to watch someone recover. Sometimes the recovery is better than the original would have been anyway.

Which brings us to the point. As an audio or video professional, one of the toughest things you will ever be asked to do is capture a live performance. You get one shot to get it right and you don’t have the luxury of saying “Let’s take it one more time from the top”. Even if you’ve just got a couple of SM57′s suspended on mic stands you can capture the live vibe and with a little tweaking as to their location I have found that you can capture some great sounds too. But listen, check and critique yourself constantly. You’ve got one chance to get it. As a professional, a little care and knowledge is what separates you from the guy in the third row with the boom box set to “record”.

Any live performance is a special treat. First, enjoy it to the max. Second, support those who bring you these performances. Third, when you’re capturing the moment on tape, shoot the video or record the audio with the greatest of care. Your clients will notice the difference.