[Dixielandjazz] Sound

[Steve barbone]

Ultimately, it is the band leaders fault if a hired sound company amplifies
the band. The leader should.

1) Consult with the sound guys before the concert about what the band should
   sound like, discuss monitors, discuss horns relative to rhythm section
   etc. Tell them you are a "jazz" band and what should be featured.

2) Do a sound check prior to the concert if possible.

3) And in ALL cases, after the concert has begun, get the hell out into the
   audience and listen to the sound (minus your instrument) or send someone
   you trust out there to listen and make adjustments.

4) No sound is perfect for all areas of a large venue. Like don't ever sit
   in the first row at Yankee Stadium for a concert. Sit in Left field 400
   feet away. By the same token, don't sit next to the drummer in a small
   venue.

There are lots of great sound guys out there like list mate  Lowell a/k/a
Mad Dog, who do a wonderful job. Let's not forget that.

I had one yesterday at a street fair. Act before us was LOUD country. As he
set up for us he said "Hi Steve. I'll disconnect the monitors and reposition
for jazz." He then set us up running and did a fine job. Made 2 adjustments
after walking out to crowd. Volume raised so they could hear us a block away
and later the trombonist (sub) asked for a monitor because he wasn't used to
playing without one. (young guy, but excellent)

You get bad sound? Perhaps mostly your fault.

Cheers,
Steve Barbone