Prosound boasts as rich a history as DownTown Studios and was actually
based in the very same street in Johannesburg – Fox Street – for many years.
Prosound and DownTown Studios have long been discussing ways of collaborating in
a way that benefits local artists. This event was an ideal opportunity to make a
positive contribution through the sharing of technical expertise and the right product
range to make it all possible in Audio-Technica. Using Audio-Technica’s products,
Prosound and the DownTown team imparted some of their years of experience in
the live sound and studio environments to an audience that was eager to learn.
About 30 people attended the workshop, and were in rapt attention through three
different sessions:
The day began with sngers Sio, Charlene Lai and RubyGold hosting a panel
discussion that highlighted the skills required to succeed as a vocalist in the South
African music business. These very talented young ladies shared a bit of their
background with the audience and gave them a few tips on what to avoid and where
to concentrate one’s efforts when establishing a career as a professional vocalist.
The second session was sponsored by Audio-Technica. Prosound set up a stage on
the DownTown Music Hub’s rooftop balcony and facilitated a workshop with veteran
monitor and FOH engineer, Lee Brune, who spoke to the idea that a live
performance is very much a team effort. He delved into the various aspects of a
live sound reinforcement system with particular emphasis on monitoring and correct
microphone choice. Microphone handling techniques and stagecraft were also
covered, followed by some spontaneous acapella performances by Sio, Charlene,
and RubyGold as well as members of the audience.
The last session of the day was held in DownTown Studio’s legendary Studio One.
Paul Martin from the DownTown Music Hub, discussed how artists could prepare for
sessions and save themselves loads of time, money and aggravation by effectively
planning their recording sessions. He also presented many tips and tricks from
DownTown Studio’s “Happy session Guide’ and then handed over to one of the
studio’s engineers Clifford “Riffi’ Machingaifa, who hosted a live demonstration and
discussion on studio microphone techniques with the assistance of Charlene Lai.
“There’s lots of talent out there, but we’re noticing that it’s not being nurtured and
developed,’ says Martin. “There’s some amazing musicianship and skill, but very
little practical advice on how take the next step when developing one’s career.
Mzansi Music Magazine and the Female DJ Network, who together convened the
event, feel that these types of events are critical in assisting in the development of
the South African music industry, so the workshop was facilitated to assist
upcoming artists learn both the practical technical skills as well as life skills
required for success in our music industry.’
