How To Setup Loops & Tracks
Getting started with loops in worship can be a daunting process, but it's not as complicated as it may seem. Let's break down the process.
What is a click track?
A click track is the band's time keeper. But that's what a drummer is for, right? Um, yes…and most drummers are human, subject to ebb and flow. And it's never fun to be the drummer when the band speeds up or slows down. Click tracks allow a band to begin a song together without an audible count-off (like stick clicks or shout outs by the leader).
What are "verbal cues" with click tracks?
A verbal cue simply announces to the musicians what section in the song is coming up next. Every song has different sections (introduction, verse, pre-chorus, chorus, bridge, etc.). All of the click tracks at mymusicwriter.com have built in verbal cues which announce to the band what section is about ready to happen. The click track (with verbal cues) then turns into a guide for the band to announce the song title, start together in rehearsed tempo, move to different song sections seamlessly, slow down/up at certain places, and even signal the end to the song. Having an "audio skeleton" which the band plays with can elevate the quality of any group of musicians playing together in a live situation. By the way, those listening to the band never hear the click track or verbal cues — which is the beauty of click tracks because they help behind-the-scenes with no one knowing.
What exactly is a loop?
A loop is a term for audio playing over and over (looping) again, usually accompanying other live stage instrumentation. Advanced looping in special computer software (Ableton Live, Reason, etc.) allows users to select which, when, and how often a loop is played. However, mymusicwriter.com loops take the guesswork out of someone who would both construct and then control the loops in the live situation. Loops from mymusicwriter.com are designed as an accompaniment to the band — mixed with the band, not drive the band. These loops are not backing tracks (backing tracks are designed to replace the band). Loops from mymusicwriter.com simply augment what you already have going on. The best loops are the ones that you can't tell they are happening, but there's definitely a charge of energy with what's happening live sonically.
Are mymusicwriter.com loops easy to setup and use?
Yes. All loops and click tracks from mymusicwriter.com are MP3 files which are played back on conventional MP3 players (such as an iPod) or any computer (using iTunes or similar windows media player). These MP3 files are then played back and feed into the sound system.
How to do I setup my equipment to run loops and click tracks?
STEP 1 - Select a playback device. You'll need an MP3 player or computer to playback the loops. With mymusicwriter.com loops and click track, you will not need any expensive computer looping software (Ableton Live, Reason, etc.). All mymusicwriter.com loops contain click tracks with verbal cues as MP3 downloads, designed to run on equipment you probably already have.
STEP 2 - Split your signal to left and right channels. You'll need to split the left and right audio channels from your MP3 player/computer. This is done with a "Y-Cable" [stereo mini 1/8" male to 2 mono 1/4" males], which splits a stereo mini 1/8" signal into left and right. We suggest the "Monster Cable IP400M" for good connections (http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/IP400M.75M). The 1/8" male plugs into your MP3 player/computer. The other two mono 1/4" male ends will plug into the monitor/house sound system. Most audio engineers use Direct Input boxes (DI) to convert the 1/4" male ends into an XLR mic cable.
STEP 3 - Route the audio to the correct places. You'll need to work with your audio engineer (sound person) to send the LEFT channel (containing the click track and cues) to the IEM (in-ear-monitor system) and/or drummer. We recommend sending click to the entire band if possible, but if the drummer has the click…you're golden. The RIGHT channel is then sent to the house sound to be played back and mixed with the band. See illustration.
How to Route Your Audio for Click Tracks/Loops
STEP 4 - Practice. In rare cases, loops and click tracks magically work the very first time they are used. In most cases, it takes practice. There are many factors involved (adjusting volume, learning to play with a steady beat, learning to setup playlists with pauses, etc.). Once you get a few rehearsals under your belt, then it's time to try it for real. Most bands will have a few musicians who won't want the click or even like it. Those that are willing to use click tracks usually find them very helpful with timing, silent count-offs, and the ability to incorporate loops and play with tailored videos.
STEP 5 - Make God a vital part of your process. If you haven't prayed about it, don't try it. Avoid allowing technology (loops, click tracks, equipment, etc.) become the The Holy Spirit is fully capable to work with advance planning and prepared rehearsals (as He is with chaotic and haphazard situations too). Asking God FIRST if this is the direction He'd like move with you is the most important step. Really, step 5 should be step 1 for everything we do — whether it's incorporating loops or figuring out the next chapter of your life.
Need additional help?
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to email us at help@mymusicwriter.com or even call us (785) 274-9073. We'd love to help you incorporate loops and click tracks into worship.
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