Four microphones on booms. Pete and Joan each use one vocal mic and one instrument mic (banjo & guitar). SM-58’s or 57’s are good, or whatever the sound company prefers.
They stand about 5 feet apart. Instrument stands are placed slightly toward stage right with booms extended toward stage left, permitting unobstructed views of instrument necks. Guitar mic directly under vocal mic, and banjo mic one foot stage left of vocal mic.
Each artist needs a floor monitor in front of them. Separate mixes are desirable but not necessary.
Artists need a flat-topped stool or small table center stage a few feet behind them, with AC for tuning device. Also a stool for sitting, next to Joan, stage left.
MIXING: The banjo volume when soloing needs to be comparable to the level of a lead singer. On backup, Pete will reduce his banjo volume by backing off his instrument mic. The guitar needs to sound full without overriding the vocals or banjo.
The musicians prefer that the sound engineer not ride levels once they are set. Mixing of banjo and vocals should normally be accomplished by varying proximity to mics. Guitar mic distance is generally constant, and volume is varied by volume of playing.
Contact: Pete Wernick 303-652-8346 or Pete@DrBanjo.com