A Mess!

[219777]

First shot at recording since college about 7 years ago. This was a particular troublesome bit as we had brass up front, organ, and then choir in the way back. I thought it would work out because we normally have a dry mix of the service from the sanctuary soundsystem however they just installed a new dynacord board with effects and they put what almost sounds like a multi-tap on it. I had to use it because when I got back with the live ambient mix I recorded it was way brass heavy (no getting around that at this point as all I had was the pair of B2 Pro's and nothing for upclose sectional miking of the choir). Anyway it sets the bar pretty low and given some more time for our techs on the new board and a couple of decent cardiods for the choir we should definitely do better next time. Musically you'll be able to hear it is a bit pitchy in sections and the tone tends to spread at volumes above forte. We're working on it.
Also you hear an obvious widening of the sound after 15 seconds or so on each....the tech had the CD recorder set to auto (sound activated)....so the sound system recording picks up each piece after the first 4 bars or so......I lined it up the best I could with Adobe Audition.

Best bet is to listen to each separately.....the service was a bit legnthy.......I think our best shot was "Now Thank We.."

http://www.nowhereradio.com/artists/?aid=4633/album1351


Equipment:
Multi-track mix - Pair of B2 Pro's (out about 16' from front of brass ensemble 25' from choir)
VF160
Adobe Audition (for mastering)

Sanctuary sound system mix -
4 EV Hanging Choir Mics
Dynacord board with built in effects

 

[VSpaceBoy]

Well I listening to the one you said is your best bet, and I think the recording sounded good. I have nothing constructive to add since I have no experience with that genre and wouldn't know where to begin.

Good luck with it!

 

[jonothon]

... troublesome bit as we had brass up front, organ, and then choir in the way back.

Brass should be behind, imho.

Probably would give you the best sound in the room, too.

 

[219777]

Unfortunately this was live so not pratical from a logistic standpoint. I've never seen a live performance with choir and X (orchestra, piano, strings, brass or otherwise) without choir behind on risers. I plan to record the dress next time around and seat the choir out in the sanctuary. Use omnis to catch the brass/organ on one side choir on the other. Spot mic the ensemble and each choral section with cardioids.