Tech Riders

[Marc Piane]

The Rosemary Clooney show I play with recently got noticed by an agency that may want to book it nationally. We'll travel with the singer, piano player, and myself. The agency has asked me to submit a gear rider assuming we are going to have to rent gear, including bass. If it is driving distance I'll bring my own stuff but if we fly I'll have to rent there. I've traveled a bunch for gigs but I've never had an agency dealing with logistics. It's always been a little more grassroots. What do your gear riders look like?

[Marc Piane]

I should add that I toured a bit with Second City so I am familiar with the 'make the best of whatever they have' scenario but I always traveled with my own porkchop. This is the first time I have to do it with DB.

[Uncletoad]

I like to make sure there is plenty of fruit on the food tray. I have a hell of a time staying regular on the road.

[Eric Hochberg]

Especially overseas.

[Marc Piane]

Been there. Toured Europe for 3 weeks a while back. Coffee was the only thing keeping things moving but the food was awesome.

But specifically what should I ask for in a bass.

[Uncletoad]

Originally Posted by fingers

Been there. Toured Europe for 3 weeks a while back. Coffee was the only thing keeping things moving but the food was awesome.

But specifically what should I ask for in a bass.

I have no idea. I just like fruit.

[David Kaczorowski]

Originally Posted by fingers

But specifically what should I ask for in a bass.

Carlo Guiseppe Testore is a good place to start.

[Jason Sypher]

Everytime I've been asked for a tech rider they are not followed. That understood, I would specify what kind of sound set up you require, amp, monitors etc. For the bass, that's a tough one....I guess a double bass 3/4 or 7/8 size, preferably carved or hybrid, with steel strings in playable condition with a pick up or microphone.

[Baswithone"s"]

Expect the worst, that's for sure. I would ask for the size bass that you want, an adjustable bridge, and a pickup installed on the bass, not a bass and a pickup (there's no guarantee a pickup you bring or rent separately will fit the bridge).

[Eric Hochberg]

I think you will be much happier with your own travel instrument of some kind. If I find myself in
your position again, either a neck is coming off something, or maybe a Volante. Maybe your ply
would be a good candidate?

[Jason Sypher]

I took a Czech ease on my last tour but preferred renting along the way to the sound of CE. If you plan ahead you can do pretty well.

[Marc Piane]

Thanks guys. Here's what I submitted.

-3/4 or 7/8 size acoustic double bass with bridge adjusters, steel strings, and pickup installed

-Gallien Kreuger 150MBS bass amplifier.

-Manhasset music stand (or comparable brand)


I'll travel with my own AT35pro mic and Fishman Platinum Pro pre.

[emilio g]

Although I have not done any serious touring myself, a few of my friends and teachers who have like to throw a set of low tension strings (like spirocore weich/solo) in their suitcase just in case the bass they get has mile high action.

[Marc Piane]

I'll prolly throw a set of weichs and a Bassmax and some shims in the bag too. Truthfully I usually do that show without an amp, just mic to FOH, but I want the amp option there for stage monitoring just in case the PA sucks. Thanks for the help all.