May 1, 2024
Updated May 10, 2025
20 minute read
Live performance is the art of entertaining an audience in person. It encompasses a wide range of artistic expressions, from theatrical plays and musical concerts to dance recitals, stand-up comedy, magic shows, and even corporate presentations. Unlike recorded media, live performances are ephemeral, existing only in the moment they are created, fostering a unique connection between performers and their audience. The immediacy and unrepeatable nature of each show offer an electrifying experience for attendees, while the direct audience feedback provides an unparalleled thrill for those on stage. For individuals drawn to creative expression, collaborative energy, and the excitement of real-time interaction, a path in live performance can be deeply engaging and rewarding.
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Find a path to becoming a Live Performance. Learn more at:
OpenCourser.com/topic/u6xd4m/live
Reading list
We've selected 19 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
Live Performance.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the live music industry, covering the roles of key players, business deals, and the practicalities of organizing concerts and festivals. It is particularly useful for those interested in the business side of live performance and offers valuable insights for aspiring musicians and industry professionals. The book includes updated information relevant to the contemporary music industry.
Considered a classic in the field, this handbook is an essential technical reference for live sound engineers. It covers the principles of sound reinforcement, system design, and the practical applications of audio theory. While technical, it provides a solid foundation for understanding the audio aspects of live performance and is often used as a textbook.
Serves as an excellent introduction to the principles and practices of live sound reinforcement. It covers fundamental concepts in acoustics and the operation of sound system components in an accessible manner. It's a valuable resource for beginners and those looking to build a solid foundation in live audio.
Offers a comprehensive look at the art and practice of stage lighting design, drawing on the author's extensive experience. It covers both the artistic and technical aspects, making it valuable for students and professionals in theater and live event production. It provides a historical context while also addressing the practicalities of contemporary lighting.
A practical handbook for live sound engineers, covering the essential knowledge and techniques for operating sound systems in various live performance settings. It's a valuable resource for those working directly with live audio.
A foundational text in the field of performance studies, this book provides a broad overview of performance as a cultural and social phenomenon. It explores various forms of performance, from theater and ritual to everyday life. This is essential reading for gaining a theoretical understanding of live performance beyond its technical aspects.
A practical introduction to stage lighting design, this book covers the essential knowledge needed by designers and electricians. It includes exercises and examples of lighting designs, making it a useful guide for developing practical skills. The revised edition incorporates recent advancements in lighting technology.
A practical guide for aspiring and experienced DJs, this book covers essential DJing skills, techniques, and strategies for performing live. It offers a step-by-step approach to improving DJ sets and building a successful DJ career.
Explores the intersection of music technology and live performance, covering tools, techniques, and the theoretical aspects of 'liveness.' It's relevant for musicians, producers, and technologists interested in using technology to augment live performances.
Traces the history of live music in the United States, exploring its cultural impact and evolution from the 19th century to the present day. It provides valuable historical context for understanding contemporary live performance.
Provides a comprehensive history of DJ culture and the role of the disc jockey in live performance and music. It's an insightful read for those interested in the evolution of DJing as a live art form and its cultural significance.
This collection of essays examines significant live performances in popular music history, analyzing their context and impact. It provides a multidisciplinary perspective on the role of live performance in shaping popular music.
Examines the use of technology, particularly in DJ and laptop performance, and how it intersects with improvisation and composition. It offers insights into the creative processes and technical aspects of electronic music performance.
Offers a theoretical examination of live music as a performance institution, analyzing its social, economic, and cultural significance. It provides a critical perspective on the live music industry and its evolution.
Provides a historical account of the rock concert, tracing its evolution and cultural significance. It offers a narrative look at key moments and figures in the history of live rock music.
Provides a guide to the technical skills of DJing, including scratching and mixing. It practical resource for those looking to develop their abilities as a DJ for live performance.
Focused on a specific and popular digital audio workstation, this guide delves into using Ableton Live 11 for music production and live performance. It's a practical resource for those utilizing this technology in their live sets.
This memoir offers a unique perspective on live performance through the experiences of street musicians in New York City. It provides insights into the challenges, rewards, and culture of busking, a fundamental form of live performance.
Drawing on experiences in music and competitive fields, this book offers a guide to improving personal performance. It focuses on practice, rehearsal, and overcoming performance anxiety, providing valuable insights for individuals looking to enhance their live delivery.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/topic/u6xd4m/live
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