119. How To Learn A Song (For Mixing)

Key takeaways

Understand the arrangement of songs to mix proactively, focusing on key sections like verses and choruses.
Develop a strong vocabulary of music terms to communicate effectively with musicians.
The sound engineer acts as the final say in a song's mix, balancing various elements for a well-rounded sound.
Engage in critical listening to discern how different instruments interplay within songs and enhance mixing skills.
Not every element needs to sound perfect on its own; focus on their roles and relationships in a mix.

Summary

Understanding Song Arrangement for Mixing

In this episode, the hosts delve into how sound technicians can enhance their mixing abilities by grasping the various arrangements of a song. They emphasize the need for sound engineers to understand the roles and relationships of different musical elements within a worship context. By identifying sections like intro, verses, choruses, and bridges, sound techs can communicate better with the band, ensuring that they mix proactively instead of reactively.

Learning the Language of Music

To effectively mix music, the hosts urge sound techs to familiarize themselves with musical terminology. Understanding what each instrument contributes to a song and recognizing the significance of lead, rhythm, and pad elements ensures a smoother mixing experience. This musical literacy is essential for identifying parts of songs accurately and communicating constructively with musicians.

The Role of the Sound Engineer

The sound engineer is portrayed as an extension of the arrangement. Their expertise lies not just in manipulative technology but in understanding how to highlight or tuck back certain elements at appropriate times, balancing each piece's sound correctly. The mixer essentially polishes the arrangement by adapting levels and effects to create an engaging listening experience.

Critical Listening and Preparation

Critical listening is highlighted as a vital skill for sound techs. They should cultivate the ability to dissect individual instruments and their functions within the mix. This episode stresses the importance of being proactive, which includes listening to various styles during the week, experimenting with different effects, and preparing notes on how songs should sound in order to achieve a cohesive mix.

Mixing Techniques and Safety First

The conversation includes mixing techniques such as ensuring that not every element has to sound pristine on its own, as they might fulfill their roles effectively in the mix. The importance of safety in mixing is discussed, where engineers should avoid spotlighting out-of-tune performers and instead maintain a supportive mix that honors everyone on stage.

Show notes

In Episode 119, the hosts discuss getting into a musician’s mindset to better understand arrangement and improve the overall mix. It benefits us to not only identify the various sections of a performance but also understand what the primary and secondary instruments or parts are and where to place them in the mix. The Church Sound Podcast is sponsored by DiGiCo and Renkus-Heinz.

Check out James Attaway’s worship audio academy at www.attawayaudio.com/academy, and also visit our new Instagram page @churchsoundpodcast.

Co-host James Attaway is the author of the Live Mixing Field Guide, a quick-start guide to EQ, compression and effects. Find more from James on the Attaway Audio YouTube Channel and at AttawayAudio.com. Reach him on IG @attawayaudio or contact him via email here.

Co-host Gary Zandstra has worked in church production as an AV systems integrator and as a manufacturer’s rep for more than 35 years.