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Conferences and Corporate Events in Morocco

Artist Technical Rider: How to Prepare It

An artist technical rider lists precisely everything a performer needs to go on stage. At the Julius Baer – Game Changers 2019 event in Marrakech, Secret Studio Prod handled the technical management of singer Melanie C’s show. Here is how we prepare a rider so that a concert runs without surprises.

  • Practical guide
  • 3 min read

What is a technical rider?

The technical rider, also called the artist tech spec, is the document the artist’s team sends to the organiser. It describes the equipment and conditions needed for the show. It should not be confused with the hospitality rider, which covers the dressing room, meals or transport.

It usually includes:

  • the input list: every microphone and every instrument;
  • the stage plot and the position of the musicians;
  • the mixing console and the requested monitors;
  • lighting, video and power requirements.

A rider is not a wish list. The listed references often match the habits of the artist’s sound engineer. Departing from them without prior agreement means taking a risk on the night of the concert.

When a reference cannot be found, an equivalent is proposed in writing and approved by the artist’s team before anything else. That is the golden rule of any serious production.

Technician preparing audio cabling, wireless antennas and the console before a concert

Console, wireless mics and in-ear monitors: the Melanie C case

For Melanie C’s show, the configuration followed her technical rider. It was built around three key elements, each with a precise role.

  • a Yamaha CL5 digital console, a concert standard valued for its reliability and flexibility;
  • a Shure QLX-D wireless microphone system, for complete freedom of movement on stage;
  • Shure PSM900 in-ear monitors, so the artist can hear herself perfectly, without floor wedges.

In-ear monitors are earpieces that send the artist their own mix. They replace monitor speakers and guarantee precise listening, even in a very loud space.

These wireless systems require careful preparation. You must choose free frequencies, keep sources of interference away and test the range across the whole stage. Directional antennas help cover the performance area reliably.

We always keep a spare microphone, ready and set up, backstage.

Stage and LED screen being installed before the concert at the Julius Baer event

Soundcheck, schedule and coordination on the day

The soundcheck is when the sound engineer sets each source, with the artist or their musicians. It must be built into the schedule, often before the doors open or during a break in the programme.

Within a corporate event, the challenge is to combine conference and concert. The changeover must be quick and discreet, without disturbing the participants. A shared run sheet, agreed with the agency and the artist’s team, is essential.

On the day, one technician stays dedicated to the artist. They keep an eye on frequencies, transmitter batteries and the smooth running of the show. They stay in constant contact with the control desk and the artist’s team.

To discover the whole set-up, read our case study on immersive conference set design and browse the photos of Julius Baer’s Game Changers 2019. Our sound system rental in Marrakech service also covers private concerts.

Conference stage and LED screen before the concert soundcheck in Marrakech
Go further

The project, the guide and our services

Game Changers conference with central LED screen and plant decor in Marrakech. The project in photos Julius Baer “Game Changers” Conference in Marrakech Immersive set design with a central LED screen, plants and green light for a conference in Marrakech The full case study Immersive Conference Set Design: Julius Baer The related service Sound System Rental in Marrakech

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