Stage lighting is often overlooked when thinking of live performances. It can be easy to assume that the music is the main focus of a live performance. However, the appropriate stage lighting can make or break a stage performance. A well versed lighting guy is able to use his musical intuition to make changes accordingly to the changes within a song. This ultimately provides for a visual connection between the music and the listener. For instance, a blue hue will appropriately accent a sad slow song whilst purples and yellows will create an uplifting mood. We are beings of emotion and the use of lights during a performance enhances the way people often feel towards certain songs.
Spontaneity
A key part to creating a great lighting experience is spontaneity. This is where good intuition becomes a great skill for a lighting guy to have. Smaller scale lighting in bars, clubs, and small venues requires improvised lighting movements. Larger shows like coliseums typically will have a preset show that does not require improve. Darkening and changes in color tone that are placed at just the right moment can help a band create a more memorable experience for the audience. It is important for lighting guys to cut their teeth on the smaller gigs and gain the intuition/skillset that is required for the large performances. Musicians who plan to hire a person to run lights for their shows need to have a little knowledge on how it works as this will ultimately help them better communicate and make for a better on stage experience.
Music Made Mania 