Electronic dance music (EDM) encompasses a wide variety of electronic instruments and software that can be used to create beats, textures, vocals, and tracks. The term “EDM” is generally used to describe any electronic music that has vocals, although you will find many artists who only perform with one or maybe none of these elements. Some artists working in the electronic music field recordings may have traditional instruments as well as electronic instruments, but they are not considered to be true EDM artists. The boundaries between EDM and other electronic music styles are becoming more defined by the year as more recording studios create high-tech recording environments that demand precise, studio quality production. The following list describes different types of electronic music equipment that may be needed for a studio recording of an EDM type sound track.
Virtual DJ – A virtual DJ is a DJ who performs in digital signal only. This is different from traditional DJs who may perform live or in a DJ mix CD, as well as CDs that incorporate other DJs performing with the band members. A virtual DJ offers a DJ experience to radio stations or clubs through the use of a computer. For a nightclub or electronic dance music (EDM) performance, a DJ will typically play digitally provided tracks.
An audio engineer in the professional world is known as a sound technician. In the studio environment, the sound technician is responsible for evaluating a song’s musical content and its compatibility with the other elements of a composition. From this evaluation, the engineer can adjust the tone, tempo, meter, and dynamics of a composition. Additional tasks commonly performed by an engineer include the separation of signals that originate from different sources, equalization of musical content, and cross-mixing of two or more signals from different sources. A professional electronic engineer often works as part of a group that also includes a sound tech, an arranger, and a vocalist.
Technicians involved in the production of a track may be called a mix engineer, a sound engineer, or a mastering engineer. In addition to composing the musical content, they also compose the sound effects and any video sequences or images that appear in the electronic music track. These individuals are typically involved in the creative process of the electronic music composition. They are typically involved in the process of arranging the audio and making the necessary sound connections. They also make the necessary aesthetic decisions regarding the visual aspects of the electronic music composition.
A live vocalist performs as either a male or a female and typically sings or instruments the vocals during a radio show. While most radio shows feature a combination of guests, some specialize in only guest performances. Live vocalists typically have to learn their instruments well in order to perform well in this setting. Vocalists may be required to learn complex dance moves in addition to learning how to perform on stage. While a radio host does not typically need to master an elaborate musical instrument in addition to vocal ability, a vocalist must at least have very good hearing and be reasonably proficient with the use of microphones and instruments.
A choir director is typically found in the music industry as a member of a group that either performs live or records live vocals for videos. While these members do not generally have to master complex musical instruments, they must be reasonably adept with microphones, choirs, and song sheets. While these vocalists probably do not need to know how to compose songs, they still need to know the basics of composition. choir directors are typically required to learn a wide range of instrumental songs as well as the proper placement of each one in their particular church choir.
Lastly, a DJ is commonly involved in the electronic dance music industry as the main DJ for various dance events. In order to play on a major radio station, a DJ must master the skills needed to communicate with listeners effectively as well as the technical knowledge of playing on a radio set. DJs need to have excellent hearing in order to play back audio from DJ decks that can run into the thousands of dollars per unit. Finally, a dj still needs to know how to mix a song and properly transmit the proper vocals from one DJ to another, as well as being able to play samples from their computers or mixing programs.
There are several different types of electronic music equipment that one might purchase if they were starting a new dance studio or looking to expand their current business. Each type of equipment, however, requires specific knowledge in order to operate and maximize its full potential. DJs, choirs, and DJs should all have extensive experience in dance in order to properly perform as one. It is no wonder then that the average “dancing club” will only employ a DJ as opposed to hiring an established choirmaster or a DJ who plays both sides of the musical spectrum.
