PLAYBACK, SHOW PROGRAMMING & TECHNICAL PREPARATION
Playback systems built around the show.
Jack Bowman prepares and operates playback systems for artists, bands, rehearsals, recording sessions and live productions.
From a clearly organised show file to a redundant on-site setup, the aim is to make the system dependable, understandable and properly integrated with the music, musicians and wider production.
Playback preparation is available remotely to clients worldwide. Based in the UK and France, Jack also travels for selected rehearsals, sessions and live productions.
Show files that are ready to use
Jack can build a playback setup from the source material or review and rebuild an existing session. The exact structure depends on the show, the operator and the equipment it needs to communicate with.
• Backing-track and stem preparation
• Clicks, count-ins and spoken cues
• Song order, locators and set-list changes
• Tempo maps and programmed transitions
• MIDI programme and patch changes
• Routing and output planning
• Session clean-up and file organisation
• Rehearsal and show versions
• Emergency and backup-show files
• Operator notes and handover documentation where agreed
Preparation, configuration or complete on-site operation
The exact hardware, software, redundancy, outputs, travel and on-site support included will be listed in the quotation.
Preparation only
Jack can prepare and test the sessions, organise the show files and hand them over for use by your own team. The handover scope, compatible software version, required licences and documentation will be agreed in advance.
Configuration of client-owned equipment
Jack can configure and test playback computers, interfaces, controllers, MIDI devices and related equipment owned by the artist, band or production. He can also prepare a suitable backup or redundant approach using the available equipment.
A complete system operated on site
Where appropriate, Jack can provide and operate a complete playback system during rehearsals, sessions and live shows. Any system supplied by Jack remains under his operation or supervision and is not left with the client as an unattended hire.
Playback operation in rehearsal and performance
Preparation and operation can be booked separately or together. Jack is available to run playback during rehearsals, recording sessions, one-off performances, tours and other live productions.
• Running playback and following the show
• Responding to set-list or arrangement changes
• Coordinating with the musical director and musicians
• Coordinating playback outputs with front-of-house and monitors
• Managing MIDI automation and connected devices
• Troubleshooting within the agreed system
• Maintaining show files and backups throughout the engagement
Redundancy planned around the production
Where the production requires it, Jack can prepare redundant or backup playback systems so that a single computer or signal-path failure does not automatically stop the show.
The appropriate level of redundancy depends on the scale of the production, the available equipment and the consequences of a failure. Jack will identify the practical options and include the agreed solution in the project specification.
Software and connected equipment
Jack’s core working platforms are Ableton Live, Logic Pro and Pro Tools. The final platform and session design will be chosen around the existing material, the operator and the requirements of the show.
Playback can also be integrated with compatible MIDI-controlled instruments, patch changes and other parts of the performance system where the equipment and production allow it.
Some projects may require additional third-party software, plug-ins, licences or hardware. Any such requirements will be identified before work begins and, unless explicitly included in the quotation, must be purchased and licensed separately by the client.
From technical brief to tested system
1. Review
Jack will review the show, source files, set list, equipment, output requirements, automation and who will operate the finished system.
2. Specify
Jack will define the proposed session structure, system, deliverables, required third-party items, testing, timetable and fee.
3. Build
Jack will prepare the files, routing, cues, control and backup arrangements included in the agreed scope.
4. Test and rehearse
The system will be checked against the agreed setup. Where booked, Jack will also attend rehearsals to test it in the real musical and technical environment.
5. Handover or operate
Jack will either provide the agreed files and documentation to your team or continue as the playback operator for the engagement.
What to send
• The artist, band or production
• The show and rehearsal dates
• The current set list
• Existing backing tracks, stems or sessions
• The software and versions currently in use
• A list of available computers, interfaces and controllers
• Required outputs for front-of-house and monitors
• Any MIDI-controlled instruments or devices
• Whether a click, cues or timecode are required
• Whether you need preparation only, client-equipment configuration or a complete system with on-site operation
• Whether redundancy is required
• The location and travel requirements
Ready to build a dependable system?
Send Jack the current setup, show requirements and dates. He will identify what is already workable, what needs to change and the most appropriate scope for the project.