Music Operator

What You Do

As the Sound Cues/Music Operator, you’re responsible for playing all the pre-recorded sound: music tracks, sound effects, ambiance, and any backing tracks. You take cues from the stage manager and execute them with precise timing.

Quick Reference

• Always acknowledge the standby call (nod, thumbs up, or verbal “standing by”)
• Keep your hand on GO or spacebar during standby
• If you miss a cue’s timing, make a quick decision: play it late, or skip it
• Never freeze up - keep the show moving
• Have a backup music source ready (phone or USB)

Skills You’ll Need

• Excellent timing and rhythm
• Ability to follow cues precisely
• Quick reflexes
• Organization and preparation
• Calm under pressure

Before the Show

2-3 Hours Before Curtain

1. Set up your playback system:

• Computer/laptop with QLab (or whatever software you’re using)
• Backup device with all files (just in case)
• Connect audio output to sound board input
• Test that sound board channel is receiving your signal

2. Verify all audio files are loaded:

• Open your show file in QLab
• Check that every cue loads without errors
• Test playback of first and last cue to verify everything works
• Make sure file names match your cue sheet

3. Organize your cue sheet:

• Print out a clean copy if it’s updated
• Highlight your cues in one color
• Note any tricky timing or special instructions
• Mark places where you need to “standby”

4. Set your levels:

• Play through each type of cue (music, effects, etc.)
• Ask sound board operator to set input level
• Verify that your faders/volume in QLab are set correctly
• Note if any particular cues need to be louder or quieter

30-60 Minutes Before Curtain

5. Run through critical cues:

• Test any cues with tricky timing
• Verify fade times are correct
• Check any cues that overlap or transition
• Make sure GO button/spacebar is working

6. Communication check:

• Test headset with stage manager
• Confirm what verbal cues you’ll receive
• Know the difference between “Standby Sound Q1” and “Sound Q1 GO”
• Clarify any cues that might be confusing

7. Set your workspace:

• Computer positioned where you can see it clearly
• Cue sheet next to computer
• Pencil for making notes
• Water bottle
• Make sure you won’t accidentally bump anything

During the Show

Your Primary Responsibilities

1. Listen for your cues:

• Stage manager will call “Standby Sound Q[number]”
• Get your hand ready on GO button
• When you hear “Sound Q[number] GO”, execute immediately
• Some cues may be visual (actor hits a mark, door closes, etc.)

2. Execute cues precisely:

• Hit GO at the exact moment called
• Don’t anticipate - wait for the actual GO command
• For visual cues, practice the timing so you’re consistent

3. Follow along in your script:

• Know where you are at all times
• Mark off each cue as you execute it
• Stay ahead mentally - know what’s coming in the next 1-2 minutes
• If you get lost, listen to the stage manager or watch the action

4. Monitor your playback:

• Make sure cues are actually playing (check your meter/waveform)
• Watch for any errors or unexpected stops
• Be ready to restart a cue if it fails
• Keep volume consistent throughout the show

5. Handle transitions smoothly:

• Some cues fade in/out - make sure fade times are right
• If a cue needs to stop early, fade it out smoothly (don’t just cut it)
• For underscoring, be ready to adjust based on actor timing

Pro Tips

• Always acknowledge the standby call (nod, thumbs up, or verbal “standing by”) so stage manager knows you heard it
• Keep your hand on GO or spacebar during standby so you don’t have to search for it
• If you miss a cue’s timing, make a quick decision: play it late, or skip it and catch the next one - don’t freeze up
• For music with vocals, practice the first few beats in your head so you hit GO at the right tempo
• If tech fails, have a verbal code with stage manager (like “we’re skipping that cue, moving on”)

After the Show

1. Don’t close anything until stage manager calls “show complete”
2. Make notes on your cue sheet:
   • Any cues that were early/late?
   • Any technical issues?
   • Any changes needed for next performance?
3. Save your work (if you made any edits to QLab)
4. Backup your show file to external drive or cloud
5. Leave system set up for next performance
6. Debrief with director/stage manager about timing

Common Challenges & Solutions

For New Crew Members

• Always check the playlist before the audience enters
• Don’t assume it’s saved - click through every cue manually to be sure
• Keep your laptop plugged in, notifications off, and sleep disabled during the show
• Have a backup ready - even a phone with the cues and the right cable is better than silence