Music-making is rarely a solo venture, even for the solo artist composing and producing music in their bedroom on Logic. At some point they will walk on stage or into a recording studio, step behind a mic, and collaborate with an audio engineer. Popular music is amplified music, and the engineer is an essential part of that equation. In fact, many of the professional engineers I’ve worked with are some of the best musicians I know, and I’m aware that I could not do what I love to do without their help. The technology itself is another area of collaboration – the microphone is, after all, an extension of an instrument!
Because the world of audio technology is so vast and complex, working with engineers can be intimidating for musicians who are new to it. And the reality is, the way we collaborate with engineers can have an enormous effect on the way we perform. Fortunately, there are things we can do to successfully move through this world as we gain experience and confidence:
- First and foremost, lead with respect, gratitude, and generosity. Not to state the obvious, but diplomacy goes a long way toward engendering mutual good will and cooperation. Engineers play a larger role in the making of music (as well as the final sound of the music) than is generally understood or appreciated; as a result, they are some of the unsung heroes in the production of both live and recorded music. Carrying this knowledge with you at all times will help you navigate the challenges of working with less-experienced engineers and it will help you learn from and collaborate powerfully with the pros.
- Learn the basics of the signal chain. Learn the language. The world of audio technology is enormous, but you have a wealth of information at your fingertips. Gain a working knowledge of these terms and then build upon them: dynamic mic, condenser mic, mixing console, DAW, amp, preamp, EQ, compression, reverb, headphones, and monitors. Set aside a couple of hours and run down some YouTube-engineering-video rabbit holes.
- Practice working with the technology as much as possible. Keep in mind that engineers are not simply turning up the volume on the vocal or mixing sound in the house, they are also influencing the way you hear your voice or musical instrument when you play it. This, in turn, impacts the way you sing or play. In addition, different stages, rooms, and studios all sound different and, as the musician, you want to learn to be as consistent as you can. The ability to perform well in different sonic environments is an essential skill for any commercial musician, so change up your practice environment. I encourage my voice students to practice singing in different kinds of spaces such as dry, acoustically “dead” rooms and “wet” spaces like stairwells and bathrooms. Practice on mic when possible and also occasionally with headphones or earbuds (taking care to be mindful of listening volumes). Vary your perception of the sound by singing or playing with one earbud in and then the other, or one ear plugged with your finger and then both. You can record this practice time on your phone and listen for changes in your singing and playing. For the instrumentalist: have a solid and noise-free tone and know how to use your gear properly. This will mean less work for the engineer and time saved for everyone involved. null
- Ask questions! Engage in the process. When you are recording in a new studio or playing an unfamiliar stage, reach out to the engineer beforehand if possible so that you can be more prepared. How do they typically record vocals, and what mics do they have at the studio? If you aren’t familiar with those mics, look them up. For the instrumentalist, do you need to bring anything besides your instrument? When you encounter an unfamiliar mic, ask about it. I have never met an engineer that didn’t appreciate and welcome the opportunity to talk about gear! Take note of the mics you encounter most frequently and how they work with your voice or instrument.
- HAVE FUN! The wonderful world of audio technology has the capacity to provide you with nearly unlimited musical expression. If that isn’t fun, I don’t know what is.
Laura Donohue is a voice teacher, vocalist, and songwriter who has been based in Nashville for the past 26 years, where she has sung professionally and maintained a private studio of commercial vocalists of all ages and levels, including major-label artists and professional studio singers. An alumnus of the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and Belmont University, Laura has served on the faculties of Belmont, Middle Tennessee State University, and David Lipscomb University. She is the Vocal Performance instructor for the GRAMMY Foundation and is a member of Nashville Songwriter’s Association International (NSAI).