Why Professional Musicians Opt for Multiple Keyboards Over a Single Large Keyboard

In the world of professional musical performances, you might observe that musicians often use multiple keyboards rather than a single large keyboard with multiple sounds. This article explores the reasons behind such a setup and the advantages it brings to the performers and the audience.

The Specialization of Equipment

One of the primary reasons for using multiple keyboards in a performance is the specialization of each piece of equipment. Each keyboard is chosen because it excels at what it does better than other available options. This specialization allows musicians to craft their performances with the finest detail and control.

For instance, a performer may need to play a piano, an organ, and an electric piano during a single performance. If the available options include a Steinway grand piano, Hammond organ, and Fender Rhodes, many musicians would opt for these instruments even if they are not capable of covering all sounds in a single keyboard. This choice is made because each keyboard delivers a unique sound quality that is more suitable for certain styles of music.

Complex Performances and Multi-layered Sounds

In some performances, the keyboards cover a wide range of sounds and functions. This includes handling acoustic and electric pianos, organ samples, sound effects, simulated sections, arpeggiation, and synthy solos. These keyboards can also provide a master MIDI clock signal to synchronize all instruments and electronic devices.

The complexity of the performance requires multiple keyboards to handle various aspects simultaneously. This is especially true for performances that involve intricate layering of sounds or rapid sequence of sounds. Having multiple keyboards also makes it easier to switch between different sounds and performances during the set.

Planning and Setup

Complex performances typically require a significant amount of setup and programming. Musicians need to carefully plan and program each keyboard to ensure that all segments of the performance flow seamlessly. This setup can include everything from ensuring the correct MIDI signals are routing to each keyboard to making sure that all instrument patches are correctly loaded.

The intricacies of setting up multiple keyboards involve a lot of technical work, including:

MIDI routing and clock signals Brightness and control settings for each keyboard and synthesizer Programming and adjusting sound effects Ensuring proper synchronization with the rest of the band or backing tracks

Visual Impact and Audience Engagement

A well-prepared musical setup, with a keyboardist and rig that stand out visually, can be a point of interest in a performance. This visual impact is crucial for audience engagement. However, the risk is that too much equipment might make the keyboardist appear isolated behind a wall of instruments, detracting from the overall performance experience.

To balance this, many musicians strike a careful balance between the use of multiple keyboards and visual appeal. Digital keyboards, in particular, offer a sleek and modern look, while still providing the necessary range of sounds and capabilities.

In conclusion, the use of multiple keyboards in professional performances is a strategic choice that enhances both the technical and artistic aspects of a performance. By leveraging the specialization of each keyboard, musicians can deliver a more diverse and engaging experience for their audiences, while ensuring that each instrument serves its unique role in the performance.