At some point in your guitar playing trip, you will probably get bitten by the bug to join a group. Do not let the fact that you are infected with a incurable, life long disease scare you. There are many of us shared the same hospital, and equally sure that there are legions of Starry Eyed teenagers picking on the guitar every day, there must be a steady supply of new admissions.
Shared Vision which is the strutting across a stage light splashed by a room full of loyal, screaming fans. Nirvana!
But what if the auditorium is not a room? As a gigging guitarist, it's just a matter of time before you experience the joys of making music outdoors.
It may not seem obvious at first, but outdoor concerts are a completely different animal than playing in the walls solid. Here is a list Quick few questions to consider, and what to take when making an outdoor concert
Work forward – If possible, visit in advance to determine:
– If a step is provided, which is the size, and if it is covered
– What electricity is provided where the circuit breaker panel is located, how many channels are on tape
– When the load in the area is, how is it accessed, what time is dependent, and where can band members park after the load
– If there passes or parking permission, and backstage passes, which should be collected
– If a sound system will be provided, and an engineer. If not, consider setting up yourself, and remember to mic every instrument, if possible to get a better sound coverage.
Additional items required:
– Ballistic! Finally, you will encounter a concert in the rain. Count on it, and be prepared by staying close to tarp to cover your rigs in the case of an unexpected squall afternoon
– T HROW Rug. If there is no stage provided, and you put up on the grass, take along a throw rug to put your pedals effects to remove dirt and dew
– Sunscreen. Summertime outdoor concerts can be a killer and you can burn before you know it. In addition, a wide brimmed hat can be a style, protective accessory.
- Water bottle. Do not count on getting a cold drink at an event outside. Always take a small cooler, and stay hydrated on a hot summer day.
– Sunglasses
– Towels. Be prepared to wipe sweat from your forehead and everything else, between songs. This is not the time to use your fabric guitar.
– Mic windshield. Cover the microphone windscreen foam to reduce wind noise excessive, the Palestinian Authority.
– Extension ropes. Do not rely on an electrical outlet directly behind your amp. You may have to run a hundred feet outside the barn to get the power.
– Analog Guitar Tuner. The great thing about digital guitar tuners is the fancy LED lights and you say, with a glance if you are in harmony. It's also the bad thing about them for outdoor concerts, because these LEDs can be almost impossible to see the light sun. A good analog tuner, especially with a needle VU will be a lifesaver.
Outdoor concerts can be great fun and a pleasant change rhythm by the confines of a nightclub or concert hall. By doing a little preparatory work in advance, and adding a few extra goodies in your bag, you'll be able to focus on the most important issue – making great music!
Over 40, 50, 60? For Free Video Guitar Lessons designed for Active Adults go to http://www.adultguitarlessons.com/amember/free_lessons-1225ez.php
Keith Dean is founder of http://www.AdultGuitarLessons.com and a 30 veteran of stage and studio. He toured extensively as a road musician throughout the US and Europe, was a former lead guitarist for Jason Aldean, and has shared stages with Little Big Town, Wild Rose, Winger, Confederate Railroad and more. He is a published songwriter, owned and operated a successful music store, and has instructed numerous students in guitar.
Brendon Small on the Gibson Digital Guitar
