Band Dynamics- NEVAH on Site Rehearsal

In this "Band Dynamics" discussion … I wanted to point out the importance of actually doing a full out rehearsal. I wish we had more of an opportunity to do this, and hopefully in the near future we will. It's one thing to practice once or twice a week in an enclosed space, but it's totally different when you are in an open space. The sound is different, the equipment set-up and procedure is more complex … only because you need to be heard. And it's a bit tricky, deceptive, since there are no people in the audience, bodies to absorb the sound. Which means the sound bounces off of all the solid surfaces and effects all the settings.

NEVAH, Maine's PROGRASSABILLY band decided to do a FULL stage set-up and as much of a rehearsal as time would permit prior to our upcoming Cabin Fevah Relievah - this Saturday January 26th at the Next Generation Theatre in Brewer, Maine …

NEVAH Maine's Prograssabilly Band
Presents …
The Cabin Fevah Relievah 2

At 11 am we unloaded our vehicles and brought all of the "sound stuff" into the Next Generation theatre. Before we unloaded we quickly surveyed the surroundings to best determine the "main" speaker placement along with the subwoofers we've started using.

Once we determined where the mains would be placed we unpacked and began setting up. Richard has taken it upon himself to be our stage Czar - and when we all coordinate with him the job gets done quickly and efficiently. Again we begin with the subs and the mains, and while that is being done the board is placed in the rear of the theatre. This is followed by the monitors, mike stands and personal amps. Once things are in place we run the power cable on the perimeter making sure it is laid out so that each speaker/monitor/amp is near one of the plugs. Then we begin the task of putting in the power cords followed by the speaker and microphone cables that attach to the boards snake (sitting center stage).

Once everything is in place we add our instruments and "gadgets" to the mix and make sure our amps are also plugged into the snake. Then we start the process of testing each speaker, monitor, mic and instrument making sure the levels to and from the board are "good".

That is … unless there is a "situation" - meaning something doesn't work, the sound isn't coming through, an instrument signal isn't received … etc., etc. Usually we find it's a simple case of checking the cables to make sure they are plugged into the snake correctly, or that the boards "levels" are up. And, yes, there is always something to work out … but in the end, the effort is worth the time.

Here is a little sample video from the set up and a taste of the rehearsal.

Hope to see you all on Saturday!

Hal
The NEVAH Banjo Guy