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Anklebiters

Getting Into Installations

Dear Anklebiters,

I was recently hired to install a sound system in a local school. I have done install work over the last few years but always as a hired sub. I would like to incorporate this kind of work into my sound company, but I really don't know how to go about it. Can you give me some suggestions?

Thanks,

Richard Hughes, Los Angeles, CA

Jamie: Well, Richard, I have a lot of suggestions for you. I also get solicited on occasion to do sound system installs. And if the money is good, I'll do it. However, I got my own first installation contract at a local club. The club had a system, but I was providing sound for an R&B band and they wanted better sound than the club could offer. (In fact, it was Rev. Bill and the Soul Believers, the same band that has hosted the Industry Jam at Pro Production for the past three years.)

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Rider-Friendly Inventory

Hello Anklebiters,

I have been running my own sound business and mixing for other outfits for more than five years now and I have finally gotten to a place where I am mixing good shows and making good money, but my most recent obstacle has been riders. It seems like every new gig comes along with a rider full of stuff I don't own. I end up either renting gear or subbing out a show I can't handle. I just watch the money go somewhere else instead of to me. Can you help?

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Is Everybody Happy?

Dear Anklebiters,

First, I would like to say that you guys are great. I have learned from and enjoyed your work over the last few months. Anyway, I do not own my own sound company, though I plan to one day soon. I am mainly a Front of House guy, but I can cover any position: stage manger, monitor world, doorman, bouncer, whatever. The only positions I have trouble with are ass kisser and babysitter. This brings me to my question: How do you make everyone happy, when the producer wants one thing, the club owner wants another and the band and their girlfriends want another?

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