Sound engineers are the wizards behind the scenes that enable the magic to happen
Sound engineers as well as lighting technicians should actually get some fame and glory.
These are the guys that are seldom noticed yet are responsible for most of your ‘memorable’ nights at a club or festival.
From the crazy light-shows to the crystal clear sound, without these wizards you might as well be listening to music from your portable speaker dancing in your room with your ‘Chinese Store’ LED lights.
So much goes into creating the perfect party climate.
Sound engineer Lars* [it seems he withheld his surname] spoke to Thump Netherlands about his experience in this vital field.
For the full scoop check it out here.
Lights, sound, party!
As a party patron your only mission is to have fun and let loose. Sometimes letting loose comes at the price of really expensive and important equipment.
Here are some of the stresses on the minds of the sound and lights guys according to Lars *:
- Drunk people on stage with their drinks near/on the gear.
- ‘Baby-proofing’ the club: no visible plugs, etc.
- Party-goers twisting disco balls.
- DJs turning up the gain to the red zone.
- Promoters who are out of their depths.
- Party patrons pulling off lights and everything they can get their hands on.
When the last track has played and the flickering lights subside, these guys after standing there for hours making sure the sound and lights were prime still have to set it all down.
They get paid peanuts and the unhealthy ‘vampire’ (work all night, sleep all day) isn’t ideal.
But at the end of the day these unsung heroes love what they do. It’s all about creating that vibe and seeing people respond to it by dancing, laughing and loving their evenings.
Next time you’re at a club or festival thank, hug, give a beer and show your appreciation for the wizards known as sound engineers and lighting technicians aka wizards of wonder.
