Tchaikovsky's 'Nutcracker'

This was my second outing with the Royal Scottish National Orchestra's audio team in collaboration with Classic FM. I was offered the chance to take on the role of Sound Assistant for the live performance of Tchaikovsky's 'Nutcracker' working alongside main RSNO audio engineer, Sam McErlean.
The day began around 12pm to begin setting up for the concert and I was involved in setting up the microphones for the orchestra, running XLR cables from rafters and microphones to individual stage boxes, as well as setting levels and performing rough mixes in preparation for the concert. Once the show began, I helped Sam monitor the playback and levels throughout the concert.
There were a few changes which needed to be made mid-performance such as moving the grand piano and adding a microphone for a soloist performance which I had to assist with. The concert lasted just under two hours and a success! We finalised the day by tearing down our microphones, cables and stands, we also helped out the video crew with packing away their equipment too and finished up around 11pm after teardown. This was a very intense, interesting and informative experience which I incredibly enjoyed.
The full concert was released on YouTube on Classic FM's channel and I was extremely grateful to be given credits for the project! I am looking forward to the future to work alongside Sam and the RSNO again!

(Cover photo courtesy of the Royal Scottish National Orchestra)