Music For Scotland have mutiple years of experience when it comes producing to live wedding bands as well as everything that goes into creating the perfect live music entertainment experience. But what does it take to put on an incredible show?
When people attend concerts, they often marvel at the intricate setup and wonder how the band or musician managed to put everything together. However, creating a concert is no easy feat and requires a great deal of preparation. Large teams of highly skilled professionals work together backstage to control the lighting, sound, and video production. The technical crew, which includes stage managers, lighting and sound technicians, and props and stage hands, are responsible for ensuring that the concert runs smoothly and that the audience is able to enjoy the performance to the fullest.
The stage manager is the senior member of the technical crew and is responsible for coordinating all of the technical aspects of the event. They work closely with the lighting and sound technicians to control the lighting conditions on stage and in the audience area, as well as to ensure that the sound system is functioning properly. They also work with other members of the technical crew, such as the props and stage hands, to ensure that the stage is set up correctly and that all of the necessary equipment is in place.
The lighting technicians work with the stage manager to control the spotlights and ensure that the right lighting materials are used. They also work with the artist to give different effects in the room, and to create explosions and flames that are featured in some concerts. The sound technicians work with the stage manager to find out the sound required for the concert and to make the necessary microphone and amplifier adjustments. They also work to ensure that everyone in the audience hears the sounds produced equally well.
Final preparations are made by the musicians and other artists backstage. The area can easily become crowded and noisy due to the number of tasks that are carried out there. It is the duty of the stage manager to ensure there is tight security and to clear the area for the celebrities to have ample time and space for the necessary preparations. Entertainers have their own unique last-minute preparations before a show. O-town for instance, usually engages in a moment of prayer. Matchbox Twenty on the other hand would sing the first verse and the chorus of the song "Always and Forever." With the assistance of the stage manager, caterers, personal make-up artists and other professionals, all the needs of the entertainers are usually provided at the backstage.
Other tasks carried out backstage include video preparations and curtain raising, among many others. The stage manager is the most important person in the preparation of a concert, as most tasks usually fall on their hands. However, in every unique role played, the stage manager would work with the professional who is specialized in that particular sector.
Technical Crew
- The stage manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the concert production, including coordinating the efforts of all the technical crew members. They work with the band or musician to understand their vision for the concert and ensure that it is executed to perfection. They also communicate with the venue staff to ensure that all technical requirements are met and that the concert runs smoothly.
- The lighting desk operator is responsible for controlling the lighting during the concert. They work with the stage manager to set the lighting conditions on stage and throughout the venue. They also work with a lighting technician to ensure that the right lighting materials are used. The lighting plays a critical role in setting the mood for the concert, and it is essential that it is done correctly.
- The sound desk operator is responsible for controlling the sound during the concert. They work with the stage manager and sound technician to ensure that the sound system is set up correctly and that the sound is of the highest quality. They also make adjustments to the microphones and amplifiers to ensure that everyone in the audience can hear the music clearly.
- The props team is responsible for setting up and maintaining the props used during the concert. They work with the stage manager and band to understand what props are needed for the concert and ensure that they are set up correctly.
- The sound manager is responsible for overseeing the sound production for the concert. They work with the sound desk operator to ensure that the sound system is set up correctly and that the sound is of the highest quality. They also work with the stage manager to understand the band or musician's vision for the concert and ensure that it is executed to perfection.
- The master electrician is responsible for overseeing the electrical systems used during the concert. They work with the stage manager and other technical crew members to ensure that all electrical systems are set up correctly and that they are safe to use.
- The desk electrician is responsible for controlling the lighting and sound during the concert. They work with the stage manager and other technical crew members to ensure that the lighting and sound are of the highest quality.
- The back-stage crew is responsible for maintaining the backstage area. They work with the stage manager and other technical crew members to ensure that the area is clean and safe.
- The followspots are responsible for operating the spotlights during the concert. They work with the stage manager and other technical crew members to ensure that the spotlights are used correctly and that they are of the highest quality.
- The mic manager is responsible for overseeing the microphone systems used during the concert. They work with the stage manager and other technical crew members to ensure that the microphone systems are set up correctly and that they are of the highest quality.
- The stage hand and flymen are responsible for moving equipment and props during the concert. They work with the stage manager and other technical crew members to ensure that everything runs smoothly.
Overall, the technical crew plays a critical role in creating a successful concert. They work together to control all the technical aspects of the event and ensure that the concert runs smoothly. Without the technical crew, the concert would not be possible.
Lighting
In addition to stage managers and lighting technicians, the technical crew for large concerts also includes a team of lighting designers who work together to create the perfect lighting set-up for the show. These designers use various tools such as moving lights, color scrollers, and dimmer packs to create dynamic and visually striking effects. They also use software to program and control the lighting, allowing for precise timing and coordination with the music and other elements of the performance.
The stage manager also works closely with the sound desk operator to ensure that the sound is at the right level and that the sound quality is optimal for the audience. The sound desk operator is responsible for adjusting the levels of the various instruments and vocals, as well as controlling the overall balance of the sound. They also work with the sound manager to ensure that the sound system is properly set up and maintained throughout the show.
The stage hand and flymen are responsible for the physical setup and movement of the stage. This includes setting up and striking the stage, moving equipment and props, and ensuring that everything is safe and secure. They also work with the followspots, which are powerful spotlights that are used to highlight specific performers or sections of the stage.
The mic manager is responsible for setting up and maintaining the microphones used in the concert. They ensure that the microphones are properly positioned and working properly and also make sure that the feedback and noise are minimized.
The master electrician is responsible for the overall electrical design and setup of the concert. They work with the desk electrician to ensure that all the electrical equipment is properly connected and working properly. They also make sure that the electrical supply is adequate for the concert.
Overall, the technical crew plays a crucial role in ensuring that the concert runs smoothly and that the audience has an enjoyable experience. Their hard work and attention to detail allows the performers to shine and the audience to be fully immersed in the show.
Sound
This role, includes adjusting the volume levels, ensuring the sound is not distorted and making sure the sound is balanced across the room. The sound technician also monitors the sound levels during the concert and makes any necessary adjustments as the concert progresses. The stage manager and sound technician also work together to ensure that the sound system is properly set up and calibrated before the concert begins.
In addition to the stage manager and sound technician, there are also other professionals who work on the sound system, such as the sound engineer, who is responsible for the overall sound quality of the concert. The sound engineer works closely with the stage manager and sound technician to ensure that the sound is of the highest quality possible.
The stage manager also works with a Master Electrician who is responsible for the electrical distribution and power on stage, a Desk Electrician who operates the lighting console and a Mic Manager who is responsible for the proper placement and maintenance of the microphones. All of these professionals work together to ensure that the concert runs smoothly and the audience has the best experience possible.
Final Preparations
Additionally, the stage manager may also coordinate with the band or musician's tour manager to ensure that all equipment and instruments are set up and ready to go before the show. This includes setting up drum kits, guitar amps, keyboards, and any other equipment that may be needed. They also make sure that the artist's dressing room is equipped with all the necessary items such as water, snacks, and any other personal items they may need. The stage manager may also be responsible for coordinating the band or musician's entrance onto the stage, and ensuring that everything runs smoothly during the performance. Overall, the stage manager is responsible for ensuring that the concert runs smoothly and that all the technical aspects of the show are taken care of, so that the artist can focus on delivering a great performance.
Additionally, the stage manager is responsible for coordinating the curtain raising and lowering during the concert. This includes ensuring that the timing of the curtain movement is in sync with the music and performance, and that the movement is smooth and seamless. The stage manager also works closely with the video production team to ensure that the video content is timed correctly and displayed on the screens throughout the concert.
It is important to note that a concert is not just about the band or musician on stage, it is a collaborative effort of many different professionals working together to create a memorable experience for the audience. The stage manager plays a crucial role in coordinating and overseeing all of these different elements to ensure that the concert runs smoothly and meets the expectations of the audience and the performers.
Music For Scotland
We are a leading live music agency that specializes in providing top-notch live music entertainment for events of all sizes. We work with a wide range of talented musicians and artists who possess a wealth of experience and expertise in the music industry. Whether you're looking for a solo performer, a small ensemble, or a full-scale band, we have the perfect act to suit your needs.
Our team of experts works closely with clients to understand their specific requirements and preferences, and then handpicks the most suitable performers for their event. We have a diverse roster of artists that includes everything from jazz and pop bands to classical musicians and DJs. Our musicians are not only highly skilled and experienced but also possess an undeniable stage presence and charisma that will leave a lasting impression on your guests.
We pride ourselves on our ability to provide a seamless and stress-free experience for our clients. From the initial consultation to the final performance, we handle all the details and logistics, so you can relax and enjoy the show. We also provide equipment, sound and lighting, and technical support as required, so you don't have to worry about any of the technical aspects of the show.
With our unparalleled commitment to quality, professionalism, and customer satisfaction, it's no surprise that we are considered one of the leading live music agencies in the industry. Whether you're planning a corporate event, a private party, or a public concert, we have the expertise and resources to make your event one that guests will remember for years to come.