In order to put on a good performance, professional work is required not only by actors, directors, lighting, costumers, designers, but also by sound engineers.
The main tasks are the creation of sound effects and their organic interweaving into the dramaturgy of the production, the use of microphone technology, the distribution of the phonogram along the course of the action.
In total, there are several types of basic sound effects that are used in the noise design of performances:
1. Echo and reverb effect
Reverberation is a residual sound that persists in the room after turning off the sound source. There is a feeling as if the listener is catching belated sound waves. The sound gradually fades out.
The actors who perform on stage sound in the same acoustic space, as the voices do not change, despite the change of scenery. The effect of reverberation and echo helps to enhance the dramatic component, create a mood.
Such a sound can be used by recording a phonogram in advance.
2. Sound panning effect
Panning sound is a creating the illusion that the sound is moving around the stage or auditorium.
For example, at the beginning of the performance, when the wings open, the sound is directed at the auditorium. After that, it is immediately transferred deep into the scene. There is an effect of immersing the viewer in the action.
In order to use panning, it is necessary to synchronize the mixer, the actions of the actors and the player.
3. Imitation effect
During the action on stage, the actor pretends to be playing a musical instrument or performing a song. A magnetic phonogram is often used, where the performer's game is already recorded in advance.
In addition, the imitation effect can also be used by adding a chorus to the action of the performance. It is also possible to invite a musician to coordinate the artist (if it concerns playing a musical instrument)
4. Unison sound effect
The bottom line is that sound engineers include a simultaneously recorded phonogram of the melody of a musical instrument or orchestra, which will be played by performers on stage. In unison.
The unison sound effect is achieved through the performance of songs, dialogues and monologues of the characters on stage.
5. Sound perspective effect
The essence of the effect lies in the fact that sound fragments, noise design are simultaneously used on sound plans on the stage. This allows to convey the layering of the action, helps the viewer to plunge into the atmosphere of the production and perceive the action deeper and more fully.
This effect can be applied due to artificial sound sources (choir, singer), as well as a recorded phonogram.