Week 1
Mini-Class
Sound Systems for Acoustic Musicians
Flawn Williams

Dear Student in the SOUND SYSTEMS FOR ACOUSTIC MUSICIANS MiniClass:

I'm pleased that you'll be joining us in Elkins this summer. The class will cover the basics of sound amplification, with tips on what acoustic musicians and PA system operators need to know to make your music sound its best! We'll meet each evening from 6:30 to 7:45 pm. 

Tentatively, here's what we'll cover:

Monday:  the basic building blocks of a PA system: mikes, mixers, amps, speakers

Tuesday:  different types and uses of microphones; observe concert sound check

Wednesday:  loudspeakers for audience and stage use, and avoiding feedback; live recording

Thursday:  sound considerations for dances; observe dance or concert sound check

Part of the time you will be actually operating a sound system in the Auditorium or other campus locations, using your classmates as performers and sound crew.  Bring your speaking or singing voice, your favorite or most problematical instrument, or some sound gear of your own that you have questions about!

I prefer to keep the sales pitches and recommendations for particular equipment to a minimum.  Instead, I hope you'll leave the class ready to ask more informed questions of your sound dealer back home.

If you have any questions before summer, write or call!  Otherwise, I'll see you in July in Elkins.

Flawn Williams
4100 Gallatin Street, Hyattsville MD 20781
Flawn@AOL.com