Behind The Mixer

Learn Church Audio Artistry | Church Sound

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Christmas is a time of love, gifts, Christ, and Christmas productions.  Can you survive producing sound for your next Christmas performance?

1. Sound techs are realists and production directors are idealists.  The more you can help them achieve their vision, the more likely they are to listen and accept your recommendations. 
    "You're right; it would be a bad idea to put a wireless microphone on the donkey."

2. Recognize the director probably doesn't know anything about the equipment you have available.  Therefore, talk with them as soon as possible to understand their needs and determine if you need to buy or borrow equipment or if something needs to change in the production because of limitations.
    "We don't have 10 wireless lapel mic's but we do have a few hanging choir mic's that might work."

3. Escalate the issues.  If you can't come to an understanding with the director over an issue, pull in a pastor to mediate the issue.
    "I can't place the monitors where they want because it's causing un-avoidable feedback."

4. Get a script/schedule for the performance.  This year, our director provided me with a script for the performance.  I know exactly what is going on and what is going to happen.  This takes away a lot of stress.
    "Thank you, thank you, and thank you!" – That’s what I told him.

5. Focus on the goal.  You and the director have the same goal; produce a performance that glorifies God.  This season, you might have to work extra hours at the church.  You might be stretched to your technical limits.  Recognize you are doing this for God and the congregation. 
    Luke 2: 11-14 "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."

 

What have you done to lessen the stress?
 

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  1. Well, this year will be different for me. Our church has been hit by hurricane sandy completely flooded out. Its now in the rennovation/ rebuilding phase, so everything is getting back to normal. Meanwhile, the services is being held upstairs in the dining hall and sunday school room. Video feed was created to make an overflow room. All sounds is back on the mixer which I am going back and forth to make sure we’re ok(and dont get me started with preparation for radio time…lol). I hope everything works out for next week for the christmas musical and play…

    Reply

    • Corey, you’re the first tech I’ve heard from who has felt the wrath of Hurricane Sandy. Praying for your church and your situation! (Just prayed for you)

      Reply

  2. We did our production early this year, Dec 8-9. This was one of the easiest productions to date, as it consisted of mainly choir songs, with solos, duets, a trio, & even a southern gospel quartet.
    We had the kids choir, and they sang loud & strong, and a scene of Heaven with Angels, dancers, & the like.
    The trickiest thing was getting the mics to the right people, but with a little persistent practice, we managed to make it work.
    Before the production began, we were reminded of the reason for the production, to see souls won to the kingdom, and in both services, we were rewarded, as many accepted the call. Lives transformed, souls added to the kingdom, commitments renewed. Made all the stress, and complications worth it.

    Reply