From Studio to Stage

Welcome back to Behind the Spacebar! Will and Reece are thrilled to relaunch the podcast after a nearly two-year break, introducing a revamped question-and-answer format specifically to help you become a world-class playback engineer. Listen in to learn how you can get your burning questions answered by the team and what you can expect from this new season.Show Relaunch & New Format:The podcast returns with a focus on Q&A. Submit your questions to be featured and answered—no question is too basic, advanced, or specific.Meet Reece:Reece shares his journey from worship leader to Bootcamp member, and how the From Studio to Stage content changed his life. He now implements playback skills in various church and music settings and supports the podcast and community.Why the Format Change:Will reflects on the transition from one-on-one support to a scalable Q&A format due to increased scheduling demands and touring with Grammy-winning artists. The new format allows the team to maintain personal interaction while reaching more listeners.Bootcamp Insights:The Perfect Performance Bootcamp is highlighted for its live coaching calls and strong, supportive community aimed at helping members achieve their playback goals, whether on stage, in a local band, or in church.The Power of Community Questions:The team is excited to receive and answer questions from a diverse audience, covering everything from technical issues to career advice in playback engineering.How to Submit Your QuestionsInstagram:Follow and send a direct message (DM) to fromstudiotostageigReece will sort through the questions and bring them to Will to answer on upcoming episodes.Launch DateFirst Official Episode Drops: April 28Release Schedule: Every Monday How to Support the ShowSubscribe and follow wherever you listen (Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube).Watching on YouTube? Don't forget to subscribe—even if it's just “two dudes sitting in their offices talking to you!”You don't have to be a paid student to get your question answered—just participate!Thanks for listening! Hit subscribe, send in your questions, and join us as we help you master playback. See you for the relaunch on April 28th!Connect with the hosts, submit your questions, and get ready for a season packed with valuable insights and actionable playback advice! ★ Support this podcast ★

Join Will for the Perfect Performance Bootcamp, a transformative six-month, on-demand program designed specifically for playback engineers, bands, and solo artists.Whether you dream of integrating original sounds into your live shows, mastering Ableton Live, or becoming a top playback engineer, this bootcamp promises real results, not just information. Dive into exclusive content, weekly green room sessions, and personalized feedback to elevate your live performances. Don't miss this chance to turn your musical visions into reality. Click the link below to learn more and start your journey to perfect performances today!https://fromstudiotostage.com/pages/perfect-performance ★ Support this podcast ★

Imagine it's the first night of a an international tour. You're hired as tech to help with playback and drums, and suddenly the MD and keys player gets sick. You've got to step up and run playback and play keys. COULD YOU DO IT? That's exactly what my student David Dombrowski had to do. You'll hear how it went, and why he had the confidence he could make it happen.David is a touring drummer, playback tech, and all around great guy. He was one of the first people to go through my coaching cohorts, and I could not think of a better person to share as a success story. You'll hear why David pivoted from only being a drummer, to learning playback as well, and exactly HOW he made it happen.Want access to the same content David has? Become an All-Access student today!

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In this episode of "Behind the Spacebar," Will discusses the essential skills needed to become a successful playback engineer. He emphasizes the importance of service, the ability to say "yes" instead of "no," effective file management, quick edits, working quickly, handling multiple tasks, and staying calm under pressure.Key Takeaways: Playback engineering is all about service and making the artist or band feel comfortable. Saying "yes" instead of "no" is crucial for success as a playback engineer. Effective file management is essential for quick access to files and backups. The ability to make quick edits and work quickly is important in a live performance setting. Playback engineers must be able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. Staying calm under pressure is crucial for troubleshooting and maintaining professionalism. ★ Support this podcast ★

Building a Playback rig? Don't make this mistake that I see all too often in new Playback Techs.The Playback and Playback Tech community is a wonderful community.I love the trend of sharing rig builds and learning what others are doing.Seeing the gear others rely on, and what they use to craft their sound is inspiring.But...I'm noticing an alarming trend with theseBeautiful, Instagram worthy rigs...I share my thoughts in todays episode of Behind the Space Bar.#uglyrigsarebeautiful ★ Support this podcast ★

If you're just starting out with Ableton or using tracks, you're not a burden-we're glad you're here! Every month, I hold a call just for From Studio to Stage students. [Want access? Join me here:https://fromstudiotostage.com/subscribe ]This past month, I noticed an alarming trend.There were multiple people asking questions, and apologizing for how "basic" they were. They were apologizing for "being in the way" because they're just starting out. I quickly let them know:-you don't need to apologize and-you're not in our way. You're welcome here...and we're glad YOU'RE here. Don't miss the gift of beginning. We've all been there before. We're all beginners at something.Glad you're here! ★ Support this podcast ★

Want access to Beat Academy Pro + The Ultimate Producer course + my all new How to Create Live Remixes with Zero Production Knowledge course? Sign up here: https://fs2s.link/beat-academy [You only get access to my How to Create Live Remixes with Zero Production Knowledge course if you use this link]How to get access to my "How to Create Live Remixes with Zero Production Knowledge" course: 1) Sign up for Beat Academy Pro here: https://fs2s.link/beat-academy2) Forward your sign-up receipt/confirmation to support@fromstudiotostage.com 3) We'll reply back with your exclusive link to the brand new course  ★ Support this podcast ★

I'm no swifty… but T-Swift got it right… I'm the problem.. it's me.Do you believe that the next piece of gear will unlock your potential? We'll debunk the myth of external factors and shed light on the internal drive that genuinely propels us forward.

Are you trying to convince your band to use tracks? Here's a difference approach you can take.I get it. You've seen the light. You want your band to use tracks. It's going to improve your sound, make it easier to perform on stage, but you can't get the rest of your band on board.I've been there. I've coached students that are there (or have been there). We can address every objection your bandmates may have…but sometimes you've got to take a different approach.In today's episode of Behind the Space Bar I share what that approach is, and when it's the right time to take it!Want to run tracks like a pro? Download my free tracks template

Sure — anybody can learn how to use Ableton as a software program. But the ones who master using Ableton on stage don't think of it like that.What's the difference between knowing how to use Ableton and using it on stage to put on a killer performance? It's pretty simple, really. It's your mindset in how you approach it.If you only view Ableton as just software, you limit it to being utilitarian. It's just there to do a job. But I'm going to teach you a different way to approach it — one you're likely already very familiar with — that will help you level up on stage. ★ Support this podcast ★

Martin Roberts has had a successful career bringing artists' records to life on stage (including Shawn Mendes, M83, and others). He's a playback engineer, music director, system designer, and just an all-around pro.Watch the interview to hear Martin's thoughts on live performance, playback, gear & music tech, and what it was like working with Shawn Mendes. ★ Support this podcast ★

The bands that use backing tracks the best are the ones that do it without anyone noticing. But how do they do it?Context is everything. EDM, cover bands, acoustic bands — all different types of bands use tracks. But they don't all put the same stuff in the tracks because, well, it would be ludicrous for an 808 drop to happen in an acoustic set (or would it be awesome, actually?).Watch for some tips to think through your context and examples of potential types of sounds to put in your tracks. ★ Support this podcast ★

Brian (Not Brain) Funk teaches a class at Berklee Online Online, hosts the The Music Production Podcast, and creates sample packs for Ableton Live (and is also an Ableton Live Certified Trainer). How in the world does he do it all?I got to sit down with Brian to discuss his crazy schedule and how he stays productive and creative with so many things to juggle.This conversation was pure gold, and I learned a ton from chatting with Brian. Not just about Ableton Live, but about creativity, productivity, and life in general. ★ Support this podcast ★

There's a lot that goes into a redundant playback rig, and it can feel pretty complex to figure out. So, the natural question is…is it really worth all that time and money?I break it all down for you in this video so you can know whether or not you really should invest in one or if you can get by without it. ★ Support this podcast ★

I've helped thousands of people get more out of Ableton. But you shouldn't trust me.Apparently the best way to trigger anyone who uses Ableton is to show them another way to do things. I've spent years creating hundreds of videos and tutorials about using Ableton on stage, and most people have found them helpful (over 4,000 people have now downloaded my free tracks template: http://fromstudiotostage.com/template).But a lot of people are pretty resistant to it. Some ask thoughtful questions or bring up fair points but some still refuse to try something new. Here's my response. ★ Support this podcast ★

If you're stepping on stage to do anything, embarrassing mistakes are part of the job. I share some of mine and some of my favorites that you all shared with me.If you've ever experienced a major on-stage fail, you know what it's like to want to just crawl into a hole…forever. But you gotta laugh at yourself and just take it on the chin. Especially because you're not alone! Everyone has been there.Check out some of these stories of major on-stage fails to give yourself a little encouragement and help you have a short memory for that kinda stuff. ★ Support this podcast ★

Jeff is the creator of one of my favorite MIDI controllers ever made: the Oakboard Mini.In this interview, Jeff talks about how he came up with the idea for the Oakboard Mini, and how that eventually grew into a fully-fledged music software and hardware company. I love Jeff's story because he never set out to start a company. He just started solving his own problems by learning to code. He built a small MIDI controller to do exactly what he needed it to do. Turns out he wasn't the only one experiencing those problems, and Oaktone was born!Jeff is an incredibly talented and endlessly curious person. In addition to owning and running Oaktone, Jeff is an Ableton Certified Trainer, a worship leader, songwriter, and producer. ★ Support this podcast ★

Sometimes what seems like the simplest solution is actually the worst.If you're using your computer to run in-ears, there are a lot of things that can go wrong. I'm as much an advocate for using computers on stage as anyone, but this is one thing that you shouldn't use your computer for.I've got 8 reasons why and what you should do instead.P.S. What do you use to run in-ears? ★ Support this podcast ★

Here's how to use tracks on stage, without cheating and feeling like a fraud.We've all seen those videos of a pop artist's performance going sideways with tracks and all of the sudden the whole world knows they're lip-syncing.And yeah, I'm not a fan of that. But that's not what the way most artists use tracks. Some of the best musicians in the world are using tracks on stage. And they're doing it in a way that maintains the authenticity of musicianship and skilled performance.In this video, you'll learn 7 tips for how to start using tracks, without feeling like you're “faking it” or feeling like a fraud. ★ Support this podcast ★

I've been an Ableton Certified Trainer for 13 years. These are the 8 most common questions I get.I take a few minutes to answer each question, but I also share where you can get loads of free resources to dive deeper into each topic.My suggestions on the best gear for live performance

Mike is a pro drum tech and playback tech — building and setting up rigs for some of the biggest metal artists to…Avril Lavigne and Smashing Pumpkins? Yep.Plus, he's a From Studio to Stage student.Mike was kind enough to hop on a call with me and share his story about becoming a playback tech and what really helped him get to the point he's at now working with these pro artists and bands.He also shares some great stories from the road and even some nice little tid bits of advice for aspiring drum and playback techs.Artists mentioned in the episode Mike has worked with... Ministry Avril Lavigne Sevendust Smashing Pumpkins Testament Want to join the same community Mike is a part of? https://fs2s.link/mike-subscribe ★ Support this podcast ★

I've made this dead simple. These are the only 5 pieces of gear you need to start running tracks with your band.When it comes to buying gear to run tracks, you've got more options than you know what to do with. And if you're just starting out, it's hard to know what's actually necessary versus what can wait til later.Well, I'm making it easy. These 5 pieces of gear give you everything you need to start running tracks.Plus, learn about the Ableton template that 4,000+ musicians and touring artists are using to build sets in minutes and make things easy on stage.The 2023 Gear Guide

I branched out from Ableton and live audio for two whole years to run a video broadcast. What I learned surprised me.I never wanted to be a broadcast video guy, and honestly, I don't know if I'll do it again. But for 2 years, that was my job. And it was 100% worth it.It made me a better Ableton trainer and playback tech, and it taught me some basic principles that I apply every day in what I do now.--0:00 Things I Learned as a Broadcast Video Director0:11 Behind the Space Bar: My Experience as a Broadcast Video Director5:43 Tip 1: It's All Signal Flow6:48 Tip 2: Building rigs / video systems are really, really fun!8:09 Tip 3: It Was a Fun Combo of Technical / Creative12:50 Tip 4: It Opened LOTS of Doors16:19 Subscribe to Learn More About Ableton Live and Share This Video17:00 Tip 5: Building Modular and Redundant Systems19:11 Tip 6: Learning More About Another Skillset is ALWAYS Beneficial20:06 Tip 7: I Get Bored Easily22:25 Tip 8a: Always Use a Videohub24:49 Tip 8b: It's Never the Videohub25:29 Tip 9: Buy a Decimator27:29 Tip 10: Avoid Hacks and Use What Works29:27 Summary and Final Advice: Take the Difficult Path30:16 Subscribe, leave a rating and comment! ★ Support this podcast ★

I used to see other people in my industry as a threat. And it turned me into a bit of a jerk.But I eventually flipped the script and became a champion of others rather than just viewing them as the competition. I guess I'm still a jerk, but I've made a lot of progress (yep, it really was that bad).So to build on this, I'm focusing on community over competition in 2023. And I've distilled my experience into 5 tips to help you stop seeing other people as the competition and start celebrating them as part of your community.Got some of your own advice on this topic? Drop a comment to share it with us!0:00 Why I'm Valuing Community Over Competition in 20230:09 Behind the Space Bar: What Led Me to Choosing Community Over Competition2:17 5 Reasons to Value Community Over Competition2:27 Reason 1: You Can't Possibly / Physically Do EVERY Job4:24 Reason 2: The Best / Most Skilled People I Know Are Open-handed8:51 Reason 3: Community Inspires Learning10:43 Reason 4: Community Makes You Better13:47 Reason 5: Competition Makes the Community Better and Vice Versa14:40 My Goal for 2023 is Community Over Competition - Share your goals below!15:31 Wrap Up: Leave a Review, Share and Subscribe for More! ★ Support this podcast ★

If I were in charge of a music tech company, these would top my list of things to create.These three pieces of music tech don't exist yet, or if there's a version of them that does, there are things I'd change. Or maybe I'm not aware that they do exist! (Drop a comment with a link if they do!)What's in this episode: 3 ideas for music gear and/or tech Why and how they'd be useful Recommended prices for each Maybe this gear or something really close already exists, and I'm just unaware of it. If so — drop a comment with a link! I'd love to check it out.What do you wish existed? If you were in charge of a music tech company, what would you create that you haven't found? Check out my 2023 Gear Guide here

Wanna learn Ableton the best and fastest way? Start with these 7 tips that you can do before spending any money.I started using Ableton on stage to run tracks 20+ years ago. I made a lot of mistakes, but also did some things well.Book a 15-minute coaching session with me

What goes into being a musical & exec producer for a live TV special? How do you manage 40+ musicians on stage? And how do you plan and prepare for it all within just a few weeks?Keith Everette Smith is here to break it all down for us. Keith and I have been friends for long enough to make us both feel old, and he recently invited me to run playback for a live TV special that he was producing — A Chaotic Christmas and K-Love Turns 40.The event was a blast, but there were only a few weeks to prepare for it. From arranging all the songs, preparing for the event, running rehearsals, and actually putting on the show, you'll hear Keith break down his process and how he managed the whole thing.We cover things like:His organization and planning processHow he got stems from the original recordsRehearsing and prepping with so many different artists and musiciansThe challenges & stress on the day of the eventAnd a whole lot moreAlso, I put together an entire course breaking down my playback setup for this gig. You'll learn about my rig, how I prepped for rehearsal and quickly edited things on the spot, and even watch me build the entire set in real-time (including the frustrating, pull-my-hair-out moments). Check it out here

Charge too much — no clients. Charge too little — wasting your time. These are both myths. Watch to find out why and learn how to set your rates for teaching Ableton (including a breakdown of my own rates and the reasoning behind them).If you've been using Ableton for a while and think you're ready to start teaching others what you've learned, you need to figure out what you're going to charge. Easier said than done, right?I started doing this in 2008, and my rates have changed dramatically since then (they've increased…did you really need to ask?). I've made a ton of mistakes and learned a ton since then, and I want to share those lessons with you.What you'll learn:- How to get a feel for what the market is willing to pay- Why side hustle vs. full-time gig might affect your rate- How to not be scared to go big- Communicating rates (and rate changes) to clients- Should you ever work for free?Looking for ways to make more money on the side as a musician? Watch this

Ableton crashes suck. Take a deep breath, and let's get you up and running ASAP.Few things are as frustrating as software not working properly. And I get it — you're relying on Ableton for a live performance. You've gotta get this fixed RIGHT NOW! But you can't rush through troubleshooting — at least not if you want to do it successfully.So do whatever you need to do to get a level head, and then work your way through these seven tips & best practices to identify and solve the issue.Also — the last two tips are things you won't see many other YouTube videos mention (I've actually seen zero mention them). But I promise they're worth it, and when you've exhausted all other options, they'll practically guarantee you get a solution.—Last week's episode

Don't make the mistake that brings so many solo live looping shows to a screeching halt. Instead, learn this simple concept from traditional on-stage performers.Bands and artists who play on a stage do this without even thinking. But it's something live looping and solo artists sometimes overlook — because it's not inherently built into the set up. If you don't implement it, it can cause your whole show to come crashing down.What you'll learn:- This important concept- How it works in traditional, on-stage performances- How to implement it in your solo or live looping set up- How it will improve your showPS. Hey live loopers & solo artists out there — what's your set up look like? Do you currently have any redundancy built in? Drop a comment and let me know!‌---0:00 What Solo and Live Looping Artists Can Learn from Traditional Performers 0:35 In This Video: A Key Concept that Non-Traditional Performers Don't Understand2:37 A Traditional Performance Stage Layout (Visual)5:45 The Key Concept Applied in Traditional Performances: Division of Labor9:26 Additional Example of Division of Labor with Tracks, Keys, and Vocal Processing (Redundancy)12:59 Why You Shouldn't Solely Use Your Computer and Should Split the Load17:05 Subscribe and Become a Student of FromStudiotoStage for New Content in 202320:19 Ways You Can Apply Division of Labor (1): Optimize Your Setup21:38 Ways You Can Apply Division of Labor (2): Implement an In-ear Mix23:01 Ways You Can Apply Division of Labor (3): Travel with Your Own Mixer24:57 Ways You Can Apply Division of Labor (4): Add Redundancy to Your Setup25:49 If You Feel Hesitancy to these Methods, Make a Game Plan26:47 2 Ways to Succeed in 2023: Subscribe and Become a Student at FromStudiotoStage27:27 Wrap Up: Have an amazing 2023 and see you next time! ★ Support this podcast ★

6 side hustle ideas for musicians and how to actually be successful with them.Making extra money from side hustles is completely possible. My entire company started as a side hustle, and I was able to grow it into my main source of income. You can sell your time, your knowledge, or both.In this video, I'm gonna help you get started so you can crush it in 2023.What you'll learn: 3 ways to sell your time 3 ways to sell your knowledge 5 tips for success that I used to grow From Studio to Stage PS. Do you have a side hustle that I left off this list? Drop a comment and let me know! ★ Support this podcast ★

Learn exactly when and how you should update your software and hardware.The tale is as old as time (well, as old as the internet has been around, I guess). There's an update available and you jump on it. Next thing you know, things are broken and you're chugging coffee trying to fix the mess.If you've had that happen, maybe you've resolved to avoid updates at all costs. But soon, you're running old software and you're missing out on genuinely better features.The last Behind the Spacebar episode of 2022 is a replay from an old episode where I think I buried the lede. I promoted it as an Ableton update, but after that, I give you 3 rules and a 9-step process to know exactly when and how to go about updating any software or hardware.Watch the old episode with me and then join me at the end as I share some brand new thoughts about updating your software and hardware.PS. What's your process for updating? Anything in here that you think I missed? Drop a comment and let me know!0:00 One of the Most Important Behind the Space Bar Episodes0:17 Final Episode of Behind the Space Bar: Recapping Episode 10 (Updating to Live 11.1)2:49 In This Episode: Updating to 11.1 and General Process for Upgrading Software4:46 Should you upgrade to Ableton Live 11.1? My Answer7:05 How do you update safely? (9-Step Process)8:36 Rule for Updating (1): Never Update in the Middle of a Gig 10:28 Rule for Updating (2): Never Update on Main Machine Without a Safety Net13:46 Rule for Updating (3): Stay Current on Updates15:55 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Base Your Knowledge of When to Update on Someone18:47 Step 1 to Update Safely: Use a Backup Computer20:39 Step 2 to Update Safely: Keep the Previous Version of the Software22:41 Step 3 to Update Safely: Find a Live Set You Know Works24:20 Step 4 to Update Safely: Run the New Version with Your Gear26:13 Step 5 to Update Safely: Create a Burn In Scenario28:20 Step 6 to Update Safely: Try It in Rehearsal 29:59 Step 7 to Update Safely: Try it On a Low-Pressure Gig31:01 Step 8 to Update Safely: Compare Notes with Others32:28 Step 9 to Update Safely: Take the Plunge33:22 Update to Live 11.1 and Follow the 9-Step Process33:45 Comment What Your Upgrade Process Looks Like34:16 You Need to Update and Have a Good Plan Process To35:45 For 2023 Episode: Step 1 Is Turn off All Auto Updates36:24 End the Year Strong by Subscribing: Courses, Community, Templates and More38:43 Subscribe on YouTube! My Goal for 2023 is 20,000 Subscribers ★ Support this podcast ★

A systematic process to help you quickly troubleshoot when things go wrong in Ableton Live.You can apply this process to anything in Ableton, and honestly anything else you're troubleshooting.In this episode replay, you'll learn the four steps to troubleshooting that will help you stay calm, find the problem, and quickly fix it.At the end, I'll share some thoughts I have today and why I really believe rubber duckies might be the key to solving all your problems.PS. Ever talked to a rubber ducky? Keep it to yourself cause that's weird, but go ahead and leave a comment share a good troubleshooting story! ★ Support this podcast ★

Pretty much anybody can learn how to do something or develop a new skill. But experts go beyond just learning how to do something.Today's throwback episode is from an episode I did in January of 2022 where I talked about the one thing people need to focus on to be successful.The difference between a good guitar player and a great guitar player isn't how well they can play a difficult part. The great guitar player understands why that part works in that part of a song and in conjunction with what the other instruments are doing.If you want to be extremely successful at something, you need to go beyond learning how to do it and start digging to understand the why behind it.After replaying the old episode, I share some new thoughts on this concept and why I still believe it's the most important ingredient for success.---0:00 Today We're Taking a Look Back at on One of My Favorite Episodes0:14 Behind the Space Bar: Recapping Episode 5 (Stop Focusing on How, Focus on Why)1:33 We're Used to Having the Answer to Any Question At Our Fingertips4:17 Learn to Fish: We're Used to Searching for "How" But Not "Why"6:02 Why We Should Ask Why and Not How: An Example with Ableton Live11:02 3 Things to Consider to Choose "Why" and Not "How"11:14 What to Consider #1 - Ask Why a Solution Works13:43 What to Consider #2 - Learn the World View of a Software (Ableton Example)15:57 What to Consider #3 - Pursue More Than Surface-Level Knowledge17:24 Recap of Things to Consider to Choose "Why" and Not "How"17:51 Curiosity Ties into Understanding Why - Learn More at FromStudiotoStage19:23 How I was Reminded of This Episode: Focus on This One Skill to Succeed20:05 The Downsides of Only Learning How and How I Learn Why23:15 My Example Approach to Learning Why: Learning the Story of My Gear24:23 If You Want More on "Why" Subscribe to FromStudiotoStage25:41 Subscribe and join me next week for when things go wrong! ★ Support this podcast ★

Why can some people persevere through learning something hard while others give up?This video is a look back at a podcast episode I did in January 2022. In the episode, I talked about how I noticed a difference in people who would stay subscribed and get the most out of my course subscription at From Studio to Stage vs. those who would cancel and not get that much benefit.10 months later, I feel that being humbly confident and humbly curious is even more important than I did then. And I share a little bit about how this philosophy is still shaping me today in how I approach life, work, and Ableton. ★ Support this podcast ★

Bands make these 5 mistakes all the time when running tracks, and it kinda ruins everything. Here's what they are and how to avoid them.If you're running tracks on stage or you plan to soon, make sure to avoid these 5 mistakes that way too many people make.Mistake #1: Faking ItDon't have your lead vocal or a blazing guitar solo in your tracks with someone trying to mime it. Unless you're a famous pop artist putting on a multi-million dollar show, it's just not going to come across well.Mistake #2: Not making tracks part of the bandThe band and the tracks need to fit together musically.Mistake #3: You don't treat tracks like an instrumentIf you're not preparing tracks like a keys player would prepare for a set, you're doing it wrong.Mistake #4: You allow tracks to lock you into an arrangementPlaying live music should be flexible and have room for spontaneity. Run tracks in a way that allows you to do that.Mistake #5: Not editing tracks to fit your contextIf you try to just do everything exactly like it is on the record, it's not going to translate very well. Transitions will be weird and you miss out on opportunities to edit the tracks to fit the live setting.Bonus mistake: Not subscribing to the From Studio to Stage YouTube channelLearn something new about Ableton every day by hitting subscribe and hitting the bell icon to get notified as soon as I publish a new video every single day.—Have you made any of these or other mistakes when running tracks? I have. If that's you, too, drop a comment and let me know!0:00 5 Mistakes You Need to Avoid Using Tracks on Stage0:08 Introduction to Behind the Space Bar and This Episode0:58 Mistake 1: Faking It (Why People Might & My Example)3:36 Mistake 2: Not Making Tracks a Part of the Band5:13 Mistake 3: You Don't Treat Tracks Like an Instrument7:16 Bonus Mistake: Not Subscribing to From Studio to Stage7:50 Mistake 4: Being Locked into the Arrangement (Have Flexibility)9:58 Mistake 5: They Don't Edit to Fit Their Context12:06 Mistake to Avoid: Not Subscribing to From Studio to Stage12:26 Look forward to December Episodes! 12:50 Get This Episode Early on Apple Podcast / Spotify13:03 Bonus episode for 2022; Thank you for your support!--- ★ Support this podcast ★

What's more important for your musicians, playback techs, and engineers: knowledge or experience? Well, you need both. Here's why and how to get there.Each of us leans towards one or the other. Maybe you love learning but have some fear or hesitancy when it comes to applying your knowledge.Maybe you love diving into the performance without really thinking everything through. Just let the music flow, baby.Both types of people have had successful careers in music. But to really get to the next level, you need both.Here's what you'll learn in today's episode:-Why I think both knowledge and experience are important-Why knowledge definitely doesn't = experience-Blind spots for people with more knowledge-How to get more experience in your music career-Why experience definitely doesn't = knowledge-Blind spots for people with more experience-How to grow your knowledge-Why you should never stop asking questionsDo you feel like you have more experience or knowledge? Leave a comment and let me know!---0:00 Knowledge vs Experience: Which is most important?0:12 Welcome Back to the Behind the Space Bar Podcast0:49 Would you rather have knowledge or experience?1:46 Why I Think Both Knowledge and Experience is Important2:54 Knowledge Doesn't Equal Experience (My Example Story)4:18 Flaws for People with More Knowledge5:57 3 Tips for Knowledgeable People: Apply, Practice, Expose Yourself9:48 Subscribe if you're interested in growing your knowledge!10:28 Experience Doesn't Equal Knowledge (Example)12:28 Flaws for People with More Experience13:56 3 Tips for Experienced People: Understand/Focus on Why, Stop & Think17:41 4th Tip & Mike McKnight's Example: Continue Asking Questions20:08 Summary of Tutorial and My Advice: Continue to Learn21:14 Subscribe to my channel if you're looking to learn about Ableton Live! ★ Support this podcast ★

Click and tracks shouldn't be universally used by anyone performing on stage. Here are 4 reasons you shouldn't use them.Every once in awhile, I get someone commenting about how “real musicians” don't use click and tracks. I've spent plenty of time debunking that myth, but I will concede there are times when you shouldn't use click and tracks live.When is running click and tracks a bad idea?1. You're performing by yourself2. The context isn't right3. You don't want to4. You're not readyReady to start playing with click in Ableton? Get my clicks here

These 5 tips will help you get out of your creative rut and start churning out work.Everyone gets stuck when they're trying to create something. Even the best artists deal with it. But they also know how to get out of it. Here are 5 tips that I regularly use to get myself out of a rut and start creating.1. Say it out loud2. Schedule a pity party3. Keep going!4. The perfection myth and focusing on what's attainable5. Read the War of Art (link

Ableton doesn't have to break the bank. Here are 3 simple tips for saving money when purchasing or upgrading Ableton.Tip 1: Ableton for free? Yep. You can get a starter version of Ableton for free.Tip 2: Already have Ableton? Save when you upgrade.Tip 3: Discounts for qualified users: students, churches, etc.Bonus Tip: Discount for From Studio to Stage paid subscribers! Go to fromstudiotostage.com/subscribe, sign up, get a discount, and start mastering Ableton.0:00 Did you know that you can get Ableton Live for free? 0:12 Welcome to Behind the Space Bar Podcast: Opportunity to Save Money0:49 Ableton Live Lite: Get Ableton Live for Free 1:01 Add-On Software Example: PreSonus FirePod Interface – FireWire2:02 How I Found Ableton Live Lite and What It Is 2:23 Tip 1: Get Ableton Live Lite - It's Enough to Get Started2:55 Tip 2: You Can Upgrade Your Version of Ableton Live 4:26 The Final Upcoming Tip That Applies to Students, Churches, etc. to Save Money 4:42 Subscribe and Leave a Review on iTunes5:25 Tip 3: Amazing Discount for Students, Teachers and More (Ableton Live EDU)6:26 Become a From Studio to Stage Student – Free and Discount Opportunities8:32 Follow These Three Tips to Upgrade and Save Some Money9:00 Thank you for watching! ★ Support this podcast ★

I've been running tracks for over 18 years, and I believe these are some of the best free tools out there to add to your Ableton Live setup.S Some will save you time. Others will grant you access to the power of automation.And all of it will cost you $0.Links to resources and tools

If you're going to use a click, don't do it like this.Playing with a click track can be a game changer for your band. It can make you sound tighter and also open the door to playing with tracks that can fill out your sound.But there are 5 common mistakes I see bands regularly make. Listen to find out what those mistakes are and why you should avoid them. ★ Support this podcast ★

Why do bands do this to themselves?! These are mistakes that are EASY to avoid and ensure you don't embarrass yourself in front of or distract your audience.1. Change things right before getting on stageTrust your preparation! If you have a moment of inspiration, write it down as something to try later that you can iron out in a rehearsal.   2. Update softwareDon't update your software after sound check. If you do, you'll increase your chance for stuff not working.   3. Hope something works (without ironing out details in rehearsal)Your goal should be for you to be confident you're going to nail it when you step on stage. And if something goes wrong, you know exactly what to do to avoid disaster. 4. No back up plan Things won't always go as planned, but that's not a reason to not plan. Because when things go wrong, if you have a back up plan, you'll be ready to roll with the punches.  5. Trying something on stage you've never rehearsedI guess some bands get a thrill from doing this? But it's a surefire way to make sure you're gonna screw up on stage.  ★ Support this podcast ★

I made a pretty big mistake 15 years ago when running tracks for a new gig.What I learned still guides the way I run and teach running tracks with Ableton today. It even inspired the unofficial motto for From Studio to Stage: Humbly Confident. Humbly Curious.In this podcast, I talk about the mistake I made and how you can avoid it.PODCAST: Humbly Confident. Humbly Curious: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/behind-the-space-bar/id1457883170?i=1000547426800 ★ Support this podcast ★

These 6 tips will help you land (and keep) a gig as a playback tech.1. Start with another role — most playback techs are also guitarists, drummers, or guitar/drum techs that learn Ableton to help their band switch to in-ears and start learning tracks.2. The Little Mermaid Principle: be where the people are.3. Show up and genuinely serve.4. Be a “good hang.” If you want someone to invite you on a tour, being good at what you do is only half the job. Being pleasant to be around and spend time with will land you gigs and make people want to invite you back.5. Be so good that people can't ignore you. If you're fun to be around AND you absolutely crush your job, you'll always be employed.6. Consider working for free (but don't be taken advantage of!)Alright playback techs out there! How did you get started and what helped you break into the industry? Anything you'd add or anything you disagree with? Comment below to let me know! ★ Support this podcast ★

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Tips & tricks to help everyone in the band stay on the same page when things get off the rails.Good bands aren't perfect bands. Things can go wrong even for the best. But when they do, they have ways to communicate with each other to avoid any noticeable errors.In this episode of Behind the Space Bar, you'll learn four ways the pros communicate with each other on stage.1. Hand signals (on stage charades!)2. Talk-back mics (low- and high-tech options)3. Plan for the unplanned4. Rehearse “safe” words--Learn how to set up a talkback mic on stage:https://fs2s.link/talkback-courseHotshot DM-1:https://fs2s.link/hotshot-dm1Radial Relay Xo:https://fs2s.link/radial-relay-xo ★ Support this podcast ★

It requires two hands and two feet to play drums. So yeah, sure, let's add the highly technical responsibility of tracks to the drummer's plate. Makes sense.Bands that successfully run backing tracks think intentionally about who will be responsible for them.Here are 7 tips to help you choose the right band member to run click and tracks in your band:1) Avoid the drummer2) Consider having the music director run tracks3) Who is the most technically capable person? (You can rule out the guy with the 5stringslayer@aol.com email address)4)  Who is comfortable troubleshooting? (Any IT folks in the band?)5) Pick someone who has good musical instincts and knowledge6) Consider someone not on stage like a dedicated playback tech7) Buy them a MIDI controller that makes sense for their roleWho runs tracks in your band and what made you choose them? Let me know in the comments!Like this content? Make sure to subscribe to see when I post new videos: https://fs2s.link/youtube-subscribeBecome a From Studio to Stage student: https://fs2s.link/subscribeDownload all my templates/patches/presets:https://fs2s.link/shopSet-up a quick 15 minute call with me: https://fs2s.link/15minuteSet-up an hour long remote Zoom call with me:https://fs2s.link/oneononePurchase Ableton Livehttps://fs2s.link/abletonPurchase Ableton Pushhttps://fs2s.link/push----Download my free Gear Guide:https://fs2s.link/gearDownload free Click Tracks for Ableton Live:https://fs2s.link/clicksDownload free Guide Cue files for Ableton Live: https://fs2s.link/cuesDownload free ProPresenter 7 MIDI cues template:https://fs2s.link/pp7Download my free Getting Started with Live 11 Guide:https://fs2s.link/live-11Download free LTC/Timecode files for Ableton Live:https://fs2s.link/timecodeDisclaimer: This video and description may contain affiliate links. By you clicking on these links, you're supporting this channel and buying gear at the same time. ★ Support this podcast ★

School's out for the summer, kids. I won't be making any new content this week, but there are some links below to some recent content you might have missed.I'll be back at it next week so stay tuned for some exciting new stuff I've got coming your way. Thanks for subscribing, watching, and/or listening in. Because of you, I get to do this full time, and it means the world to me.See you next week!Running Tracks: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0s8_As4KW_9HWlVPX555XKhBM76XTxBKTroubleshooting: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0s8_As4KW_9KULP28YamZRP5TbUUUnYTGear Content: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0s8_As4KW_81AT1ilGjA3-0GIPonK6s9Behind the SpaceBar: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0s8_As4KW__GkeVGIdWugMpCI9yN8JXEShortCuts: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0s8_As4KW_8E7zfrGghTUupXwpOmBYQSFor Worship Leaders: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0s8_As4KW_9ekDLjUhrU6pP0IgW9E5WISunday Sound Design: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0s8_As4KW_9m5sJzXY_TU3qfuoV4t8GnVolunteer Friendly Podcast: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0s8_As4KW_8Wax0YElYDzvYIWWAQTW5c★ Support this podcast ★

Learn how to get your computer ready to use on stage. If you're going to use Ableton Live on stage, you've got to make sure your computer is setup and configured properly. In this episode of Behind the Spacebar, you'll learn the best practices and best steps to follow to get your computer ready for the stage.  Should you update to Ableton Live 11.1? https://youtu.be/gMMeqkmCwtMDownload Free Resources for Running Tracks https: //fs2s.link/freeFor all episodes of Behind the Space Bar: https://fs2s.link/bts★ Support this podcast ★