KEYS
4 INGREDIENTS TO CREATE A MAINSTAGE RIG | David Pfaltzgraff
So, you’ve decided to take the plunge and
implement a new keys setup based around
MainStage 3. Whether you’re the worship
leader or the keys player yourself, it’s of the
utmost importance that any new technology
you implement doesn’t get in the way of,
but rather enhances the corporate worship
experience. MainStage is an amazing value and
an amazing tool, but if the technology doesn’t
make things simpler or better, then you’ll have
a hard time finding your footing.
Today I’d like to share with you four essential
ingredients to make sure that the MainStage
rig you setup for yourself, or your team, does
indeed make preparation and live performance
simpler and better.
1. A CLEAR GOAL IN MIND
Before you start implementing MainStage 3
it’s important to have a good grasp of what
you hope to achieve with the software. Find
answers to questions like these:
• Do we want to spend time designing (or
money buying) sounds for specific songs
each week or do we want to settle on a few
go-to presets?
• Who will be responsible for preparing
MainStage before rehearsal/service?
• If volunteers will be using MainStage at
keyboards MIDI sent directly over USB.
church, will they be able to take the computer the flexibility to use MainStage in tandem with home to practice/prepare in advance? today’s cutting-edge performance keyboards • A Mac computer capable of running
alike is one of my favorite things about the MainStage 3. Check the minimum system
MainStage can definitely save time and deliver software. But you can start to run into problems requirements for MainStage in the App Store
fine-tuned sounds in the long run, but it can if you’re not certain of the gear you need or how to see if your computer is up to the task.
take some extra effort upfront in preparation to implement it. Keep in mind that those requirements are
the bare minimum. I highly recommend using
and implementation. Setting clear short and
long-term expectations will help you figure out Allow me a brief explanation of the essential a computer that exceeds those minimum
your plan of attack and avoid wasted time and components: requirements whenever possible. This will
frustration. • A keyboard that can send MIDI data and a ensure you are able to use the sounds you
way for your computer to receive that data. want without sacrificing speed and reliability.
2. THE PROPER HARDWARE This could be through a traditional MIDI port • A way to get audio from your computer to
The ability to breathe new life into any hardware on your keyboard plugged into a MIDI to USB your soundboard. If you’re just testing the
workstation keyboard regardless of age and adaptor, a MIDI interface, or on many newer waters with MainStage, you can purchase a
142
February 2019
Subscribe for Free...