Stage Monitor
A Stage Monitor is a special speaker that helps performers hear themselves and other musicians while on stage. Think of it as a personal speaker that points up at the performer from the floor, unlike the main speakers that face the audience. These are essential in live performances because they let singers hear their own voice and musicians hear their instruments clearly, even with all the other sounds happening on stage. You might also hear these called "floor monitors," "wedges" (because of their angled shape), or "foldback speakers."
Examples in Resumes
Set up and operated Stage Monitor systems for 20+ touring bands
Maintained inventory of 12 Stage Monitors and related audio equipment
Mixed Floor Monitor levels for 5-piece rock band during national tour
Configured Wedge Monitor setup for Broadway-style musical productions
Typical job title: "Monitor Engineers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Monitor Engineers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle monitor mixing for a large festival with multiple bands and quick changeovers?
Expected Answer: Should discuss organization systems, pre-show preparation, working with different monitor preferences, quick problem-solving, and managing multiple mixes simultaneously while maintaining clear communication with performers.
Q: What's your approach to preventing feedback in stage monitors during a live performance?
Expected Answer: Should explain techniques for positioning monitors, using equalization, proper gain structure, and how to quickly identify and eliminate feedback while maintaining good sound quality for performers.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you communicate with performers about their monitor mix during a show?
Expected Answer: Should describe hand signals, talkback systems, proper rehearsal communication, and how to interpret and respond to performer requests quickly and accurately.
Q: What's your process for setting up stage monitors for a typical band performance?
Expected Answer: Should cover basic setup procedures, placement considerations, sound check process, and how to work with different types of performers and their specific needs.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic components of a stage monitor system?
Expected Answer: Should be able to identify main components like speakers, amplifiers, mixing console, and cables, and explain their basic functions in the monitor system.
Q: How do you test a monitor before a show to ensure it's working properly?
Expected Answer: Should describe basic testing procedures, including physical inspection, sound check, and simple troubleshooting steps.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic monitor setup and testing
- Cable management and maintenance
- Understanding of basic sound equipment
- Following setup diagrams and instructions
Mid (2-5 years)
- Monitor mixing for different types of performances
- Quick troubleshooting during shows
- Working with various monitor systems
- Clear communication with performers
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex monitor mixing for large events
- Training and supervising junior technicians
- Advanced problem-solving under pressure
- Managing monitor systems for touring productions
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience with basic audio equipment
- Poor communication skills
- Lack of knowledge about feedback prevention
- No understanding of proper monitor placement
- Unable to work under pressure or tight deadlines
Related Terms
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