Covering every phase of a theatrical production, this fourth edition of Sound and Music for the Theatre traces the process of sound design from initial concept through implementation in actual performances. The book discusses the early evolution of sound design and how it supports the play, from researching sources for music and effects, to negotiating a contract. It shows you how to organize the construction of the sound design elements, how the designer functions in a rehearsal, and how to set up and train an operator to run sound equipment. This instructive information is interspersed with ‘war stores’ describing real-life problems with solutions that you can apply in your own work, whether you’re a sound designer, composer, or sound operator.
"James LeBrecht and Deena Kaye have written the most practical, broad-minded, useful book on sound in the theatre that has, to my knowledge, ever been published in English…. It is a book that every sound designer needs to have; it is a book that every theatre person would enjoy and profit from."
-Oskar Eustis, Artistic Director at The Public Theater
Contents
Foreword by Peter Sellars
Preface to the First Edition
Preface to the Second Edition
Preface to the Third Edition
Preface to the Fourth Edition
Introduction to the First and Second Edition by Richard Peaslee
Introduction to the Third Edition by Mark Lamos
Introduction to the Fourth Edition by Oskar Eustis
Acknowledgments
The Art of Looking with the Ear by Tazewell Thompson
1. The Evolution of Sound Design
2. The Foundation of Sound Design
3. Developing the Concept and Design
4. Research, Resources, and Selection
5. The Sound Plot Magic Sheets and Other Paperwork
6. Working with the Theatre Company
7. Preparing to Build the Cues
8. Building the Show
9. Rehearsals
10. Running the Show
11. Approaches and Techniques
Feedback: A Directors’ and Playwrights’ Forum
More Feedback: A Sound Designers’ and Composers’ Forum
No More Feedback: A Sound Reinforcement Forum
Sound Off: A Sound Operators’ and Stage Managers’ Forum
Appendix: Sounds Procedures Checklist
Glossary
Index
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