E26: *Bonus Episode* How to Be a Touring Crew Member w/ Noamme Elisha (Broken Social Scene, Sylvan Esso, Courtney Barnett, Tame Impala) & Jeff Maker (All Time Low, Dresden Dolls, Dropkick Murphys)
Feb 7, 2022
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Experienced touring crew members Noamme Elisha & Jeff Maker share insights on joining the touring crew, challenges faced on tour, transitioning to new careers, financial planning, pandemic coping strategies, and exploring NFT opportunities in the music industry.
Building relationships and timing are crucial for securing opportunities in the music industry.
Double-checking equipment before leaving venues is essential to ensure smooth performances.
Fostering camaraderie between house and touring lighting personnel enhances workflow and mutual respect.
Prioritizing wellness and self-care while on tour is key to navigating the demands of a high-paced touring lifestyle.
Deep dives
Experience of Balancing Work while Touring
Jeff shared how he balanced working as a house lighting person at venues like Paradise and Access while being able to go on tour by training substitutes to cover his shifts and splitting his shift upon returning, with the support and understanding of his employer Tim McKenna.
Dresden Dolls Lighting Person Selection: Building Relationships
Emily asked Jeff to be the lighting person for the Dresden Dolls based on their prior working relationship and experience at venues like Paradise and Access, highlighting the importance of building relationships and being there at the right time to secure opportunities.
The Concept of Dummy Checking and its Importance
Jeff explained the concept of 'dummy checking,' emphasizing the significance of double-checking equipment and essential items before leaving a venue or hotel to avoid any mishaps or oversights, ensuring a smooth and error-free workflow during performances.
House vs. Touring Lighting Personnel Dynamics and Treatment
Jeff discussed the dynamic between house lighting personnel and touring lighting professionals, highlighting the benefits of having a background as a house person, fostering camaraderie and mutual respect among venue and touring staff, focusing on providing a seamless and supportive experience for touring technicians.
Podcast Summary
The podcast episode features a discussion on various experiences and challenges faced by touring lighting personnel in the music industry. From handling difficult touring LDs at venues to the importance of understanding local house crews, the episode delves into the intricacies of touring life. It highlights the significance of mutual understanding, respect, and adaptability among crew members, emphasizing the need to navigate the complexities of touring while maintaining professionalism and teamwork.
The Importance of Wellness on Tour
The conversation also touches on the importance of wellness during the tour. Personal stories about staying healthy while on the road, including making conscious dietary choices and maintaining physical well-being, showcase the challenges and triumphs of prioritizing wellness in a high-paced touring environment. These experiences shed light on the value of self-care and balance amidst the demands of a touring lifestyle.
Career Insights and Professional Growth
Jeff Maker shares insights on breaking into the touring industry, emphasizing the value of hard work, respect, and networking with local venue crews. His journey from local venues to touring life highlights the significance of acquiring knowledge and experience in various aspects of production, such as lighting design. By engaging with industry professionals, seeking opportunities to learn, and honing practical skills, aspiring professionals can pave the way for a successful career in touring.
Future Projects and Collaborations
The podcast concludes with a discussion on upcoming projects, such as the I Voted Festival 2022 and plans for a workshop-based podcast. Jeff Maker's involvement in event production and educational initiatives showcases a commitment to driving positive change and civic engagement through music industry platforms. By leveraging skills, experiences, and creative collaborations, professionals like Jeff continue to make meaningful contributions to the industry and inspire aspiring talents.
This is the second of three bonus episodes to wrap the first season of The How to Build a Sustainable Music Career and Collect All Revenue Streams Podcast! Host and Author Emily White was a global tour manager from ages 20-23. The touring crew world is a family that White cherishes deeply but realized there aren't always formal resources with basic information on what industry standards and norms are for those who dream of becoming a touring crew member. To share this information White interviews world class tour manager Noamme Elisha who has worked with Broken Social Scene, Sylvan Esso, Courtney Barnett, Tame Impala, K.Flay, COIN, among others. White also chats with her dear friend, Lighting Designer Jeff Maker, on how he got to where he is designing and programing the lighting for tours with All Time Low, The Dresden Dolls, Our Last Night, Dropkick Murphys, Good Charlotte, Pierce The Veil, Mighty Mighty Bosstones, The Gaslight Anthem, Yellowcard, Brand New, Boys Like Girls, The Click Five and more.
We hope you enjoy this episode whether you are looking to become a touring crew member or are a growing artist on the road ready to hire one.
