Stagecraft for Live Sound Engineers from Udemy

What's inside

Learning objectives

Present themselves and their workspace professionally
Impress clients with safe, fast and efficient work
Create a comfortable performance space for the artist
Run a neat and efficient live music stage
Label and colour code a stage clearly
Set up microphone stands correctly
Place microphones so they don't suffer from droop
Coil cables correctly

Label and run cables, looms, fan outs and fan ins
Understand stage orientation terminology
Decide on a centre point of an asymmetrical stage
Know how to design your workspace on a stage
Set up wedge monitors for musicians
Create a great "gig bag" of tools to take to work
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Present themselves and their workspace professionally
Impress clients with safe, fast and efficient work
Create a comfortable performance space for the artist
Run a neat and efficient live music stage
Label and colour code a stage clearly
Set up microphone stands correctly
Place microphones so they don't suffer from droop
Coil cables correctly
Label and run cables, looms, fan outs and fan ins
Understand stage orientation terminology
Decide on a centre point of an asymmetrical stage
Know how to design your workspace on a stage
Set up wedge monitors for musicians
Create a great "gig bag" of tools to take to work
Show more
Show less

Syllabus

Start Here

Justin explains why the practice of good stagecraft is so important. Good preparation of equipment and work space results in a stage that is safe, and which helps the performer to deliver the best performance possible.

Be fully prepared with the correct tools, have the right information to make your event a success and know your stage left from your stage right.

Essential kit for a live sound engineer.

The correct technical terminology is important when talking about the stage and theatrical terms can be confusing. Not any more...

Justin describes how to make sure you have the correct information to hand before load-in, what to do if information doesn’t match up, and how to plan your work area.

Justin explores the contents of his cable trunk and gives us a detailed description of the different types of cables and their uses.

The key to a bullet-proof stage where mistakes cannot be made is comprehensive labelling of absolutely everything.

Justin explains how to “greal” a stage. The use of multicolour tape, clear and precise labelling, colour coding is essential, and removing old labels prevents confusion.

To make your set-ups and changeovers quick and efficient, Justin goes into detail about the best way to label cables and DI boxes (especially that pad switch!)

Justin shows us how to label your satellite boxes so the switch between headliner and support band is a seamless operation, and gives us some handy tips to anticipate and prevent patching mistakes and make sure there is no possibility of a short.

Justin demonstrates his highly organised and efficient method of labelling your tails to ensure there is no chance for error.

Yes, Justin is obsessed with labelling, and so should you be! Learn how to make really useful labels that are actually legible, from XLRs to mics and DI’s, labelling mains power and how to stop people plugging lights and fans into your nice clean audio mains.

Get monitors and satellite box tails plugged in correctly.

There’s more to connecting up your wedges than meets the eye! Being methodical and tidy reduces margin for error, and makes a good impression. Making up a monitor loom is one way of keeping your stage neat, tidy and safe.

The beauty of the “grealing” system is that once all is properly labelled, patching up your stage is simple and easy. Top tips on reducing margins for error.

Set up mic stands so you have no embarrassing mid-show moments and so they don't suffer from droop.

Setting your mics stands up properly prevents embarrassing moments in a show. Justin shows you how to set up bullet-proof stands.

Drooping microphones are not acceptable as it is, in fact, avoidable. Learn how to be more professional and impress your clients.

There are many ways to coil a cable, but Justin’s preferred method has the added advantage of being a noise-cancelling coil when the cable is in use.

Coiling Cables

Stay safe on your stage!

Stage Turds

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Focuses on practical skills like labeling, cable management, and stage setup, which are essential for efficient and safe live sound environments

Emphasizes the importance of clear communication and organization on stage, which can improve collaboration and reduce errors during live performances

Provides insights into creating a comfortable performance space for artists, which can lead to better performances and client satisfaction

Requires some prior experience with stages and basic signal flow, so it may not be suitable for individuals with no background in live sound

Teaches methods for labeling and color-coding a stage, which can help prevent mistakes and improve efficiency during setup and changeovers

Features techniques for coiling cables and setting up microphone stands, which can help maintain a neat and professional stage appearance

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Stagecraft for Live Sound Engineers with these activities:

Review Basic Signal Flow

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Reinforce your understanding of signal flow, which is essential for understanding how audio travels through a live sound system and troubleshooting issues on stage.

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Review diagrams of typical live sound setups.
Trace the signal path from microphone to speaker.
Identify common components in the signal chain.

Read 'Yamaha Sound Reinforcement Handbook'

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Gain a deeper understanding of the technical aspects of sound reinforcement, complementing the practical skills learned in the course.

View The Sound Reinforcement Handbook on Amazon

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Focus on chapters related to microphone placement and signal processing.
Relate the concepts to real-world stage scenarios.
Use the handbook as a reference for troubleshooting issues.

Read 'Live Sound Reinforcement' by Scott Hunter Stark

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Expand your knowledge of live sound principles and techniques, providing a deeper understanding of the concepts discussed in the course.

View Live Sound Reinforcement on Amazon

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Read the chapters related to stage setup and signal flow.
Take notes on key concepts and techniques.
Apply the knowledge to real-world scenarios.

Four other activities

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Show all seven activities

Design a Stage Plot and Input List

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Practice planning and organizing a stage setup, reinforcing the importance of clear communication and efficient workflow.

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Choose a hypothetical band or musical act.
Create a detailed stage plot showing instrument placement.
Develop an input list with microphone and DI assignments.
Present your design to peers for feedback.

Create a Cable Management Guide

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Solidify your understanding of cable management techniques by creating a visual guide that can be shared with others.

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Research best practices for cable coiling and routing.
Take photos or videos demonstrating proper techniques.
Compile your findings into a short guide or video tutorial.
Share your guide with other students.

Cable Coiling Speed Drills

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Improve your cable coiling speed and efficiency through repetitive practice, making you a more valuable asset on stage.

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Gather several XLR and instrument cables.
Practice coiling each cable using the over-under technique.
Time yourself and track your progress.
Aim for consistent and efficient coiling.

Volunteer at a Local Venue

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Gain hands-on experience in a real-world setting, applying the stagecraft techniques learned in the course and building valuable industry connections.

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Contact local music venues or theaters.
Offer your services as a stagehand or assistant sound engineer.
Observe experienced professionals and learn from their techniques.
Take initiative and assist with tasks such as cable management and microphone setup.

Career center

Learners who complete Stagecraft for Live Sound Engineers will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Live Sound Engineer

A live sound engineer is responsible for the audio quality of a live performance. They set up, operate, and maintain sound equipment, ensuring clear audio for both the audience and performers, making this a role that demands strong organizational skills and a keen eye for detail. This course, with its emphasis on efficient stage setup, labeling, and cable management, directly addresses crucial aspects of the job. The course's focus on a 'bullet-proof' stage where mistakes are avoided is essential for any live sound engineer aiming for success.

See salaries and explore the career path for Live Sound Engineer

Audio Technician

An audio technician is responsible for the technical aspects of sound during live events or recordings. This includes setting up equipment, running sound checks, and monitoring audio levels during a performance, requiring meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of signal flow. This course is valuable for any audio technician as it provides a detailed guide to stage preparation, cable management, and microphone setup. The course's focus on preventing errors through clear labeling and a systematic approach directly benefits those working in this capacity.

See salaries and explore the career path for Audio Technician

Stage Technician

A stage technician works behind the scenes of live performances, setting up and maintaining stage equipment. This role involves a range of tasks such as organizing cables, setting up microphones and monitors, and ensuring the stage is safe and functional for the performers. This course helps stage technicians through its systematic approach to stage organization, including labeling, cable management, and proper mic stand setup. Anyone interested in becoming a top tier stage technician should learn to implement the 'grealing' system, as emphasized in this course.

See salaries and explore the career path for Stage Technician

Monitor Engineer

A monitor engineer specializes in setting up and managing the audio mix that musicians hear on stage during a live performance. This job requires a particular understanding of stage layout, speaker placement, and signal routing. This course will help a monitor engineer by providing insights into setting up wedge monitors, labeling equipment, and creating a well-organized stage. The course specifically addresses how to connect monitor tails correctly and create monitor looms to keep the stage tidy, which are key for a monitor engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Monitor Engineer

Touring Technician

A touring technician travels with performers, setting up and maintaining equipment for each show on a tour. The role demands expertise in stage setup, audio systems, and troubleshooting, all while working under the pressure of tight schedules. This course may be useful for a touring technician because it will help them to be more efficient and organized. The emphasis on labeling, pre-planning, and creating a consistent workspace, which are all covered in this course, are crucial for individuals working the fast-paced world of touring.

See salaries and explore the career path for Touring Technician

Production Assistant

A production assistant supports the technical team during live events, assisting with tasks like setting up equipment, running cables, and organizing the stage. This role benefits from strong organization and a keen attention to detail. This course may be beneficial for anyone looking to become a production assistant. The course's emphasis on labeling and organizing the stage, along with its focus on creating a safe and efficient workspace, aligns perfectly with the responsibilities of a production assistant.

See salaries and explore the career path for Production Assistant

Stage Manager

A stage manager coordinates all aspects of a live production, including scheduling, communication, and ensuring the technical elements run smoothly. The role requires a strong understanding of stage operations and the ability to anticipate and solve problems quickly. This course may be useful to a stage manager by providing them with a detailed understanding of the tools and techniques that lead to a well-organized stage. The course's focus on preventing errors and promoting efficiency can be beneficial to a stage manager who is seeking to ensure a smooth and seamless performance.

See salaries and explore the career path for Stage Manager

Sound System Installer

A sound system installer installs and configures audio systems for venues. They assess client needs, design audio setups, and install speakers, amplifiers, and mixing consoles. While this role often concerns itself with permanent installations, the course may help a sound system installer with its emphasis on cable management and system organization, as well as on professional standards of operation. The labeling methodologies taught in this course can be valuable to any sound system installer seeking to create an elegant and well-ordered system.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sound System Installer

Event Coordinator

An event coordinator plans and oversees a variety of events including live performances. This role requires excellent organizational and logistical skills, including a deep understanding of how the technical aspects of an event fit into the overall picture. This course may be useful to an event coordinator because it provides insight into the processes that make live events run smoothly. The course's focus on creating an efficient stage and being well prepared are qualities that an event coordinator often seeks from their technical staff.

See salaries and explore the career path for Event Coordinator

Venue Technician

A venue technician is responsible for the technical maintenance and operation of equipment within an entertainment venue, including audio, lighting, and stage systems. While this course does not cover lighting, it may be helpful to a venue technician through its focus on audio setups. The systematic approach to stage organization and the emphasis on preventing errors are beneficial for any venue technician as they seek to facilitate smooth and successful events.

See salaries and explore the career path for Venue Technician

Audio Visual Specialist

An audio visual specialist sets up and operates audio visual equipment for various events. While this role encompasses more than just audio, it can benefit from certain key skills taught in this course. The course's emphasis on proper cable management, labeling, and a methodical approach to set up are valuable to enhance efficiency. The focus on preventing errors and promoting professionalism can be helpful to any audio visual specialist.

See salaries and explore the career path for Audio Visual Specialist

Broadcast Technician

A broadcast technician manages the technical aspects of radio or television broadcasting. Although this course is focused on live event settings, it may have some applications to broadcast work by improving the overall organization of the workspace. The course's emphasis on proper cable management and labeling, may be useful for a broadcast technician as they set up a live broadcast or a remote studio.

See salaries and explore the career path for Broadcast Technician

Music Educator

A music educator teaches music theory or practice. While this role typically has strong foundations in music theory and performance, it may be of value to a music educator in a live-performance setting. The course may be useful to music educators who are putting on a student performance, through its focus on organization and efficiency, which can be useful in preparing the stage environment.

See salaries and explore the career path for Music Educator

Recording Engineer

A recording engineer works in studio environments to capture and mix audio. While this role typically works in a studio, they may still find this course beneficial. The course's focus on efficient stage setup practices, such as cable management and clear labeling, may be useful in the studio as well. A recording engineer who occasionally works in a live setting may find this course helpful when setting up for live recordings.

See salaries and explore the career path for Recording Engineer

Sound Designer

A sound designer creates the soundscapes for various media, including film and theater. This role is largely studio-based, although it may be helpful to a sound designer by offering greater insights into what sound engineers need on stage. While this course does not directly address studio work, it may be helpful to a sound designer in creating a more collaborative environment with the production team.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sound Designer

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Stagecraft for Live Sound Engineers.

Live Sound Reinforcement

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Comprehensive guide to live sound reinforcement techniques. It covers everything from basic audio principles to advanced mixing and system design. It valuable resource for both beginners and experienced live sound engineers, providing in-depth knowledge that complements the practical stagecraft taught in the course. This book is commonly used as a textbook at academic institutions.

Live Sound Reinforcement

Paperback

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Live Sound Reinforcement

Kindle Edition

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The Sound Reinforcement Handbook

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This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of sound reinforcement principles and practices. It covers a wide range of topics, including acoustics, microphone techniques, mixing, and system design. While some content may be more advanced, the foundational knowledge is invaluable for understanding the 'why' behind stagecraft decisions. useful reference tool for live sound engineers.

The Sound Reinforcement Handbook

Paperback

Stagecraft for Live Sound Engineers

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Activities

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Reading list

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