Foldback Engineer . . .

Foldback monitoring involves sending a direct audio feed to the performer via either rear-facing loudspeakers positioned on stage or a set of personal in-ear montors. Without these monitors, the performers are likely to hear a mirage of reflected sound caused by the front of house system reverberating of multiple surfaces within a venue. Sonically, this can be quite disorientating for the performer, often making it difficult to pick up on vital timing and pitch ques. 

For inexperienced stage performers, stage monitors may seem like a minor matter. They are, however, every bit as important as the front of house system. Granted, a great front of house sound is paramount but the performance that comes through depends entirely upon how well the act can perform. Without being able to hear what’s going on, it becomes virtually impossible to perform well. Therefor, ensuring that the performers are comfortable with their monitor feed is a top priority of mine. I’m always baffled by how much tighter sounding acts become when they are satisfied with their monitor feed.  Moreover, comfort on stage translates into confidence, which permeates throughout the performance.