Flamenco Guitarist Amplification Options.
This article provides helpful information to my clients.
Whether you are a private client or a venue I can help.
I discuss the amplification that I provide, Public Liability Insurance and the PAT test.

Choosing whether to have amplification

The first key question is do we need amplification at all.
First the option of not using any amplification for flamenco.
Later I will explain how to use it if necessary.
My position is very clear.
If I do not need amplification, I prefer not to use it.
My flamenco guitars are exceptionally good.
They have plenty of natural volume and projection.
However, there is another important consideration.
Do we really want the sound of my flamenco guitar music to take over the whole room.
Sometimes, perhaps we do.
But often my playing creates an atmosphere where the naturally highs and lows of the music are present but not intrusive.

Amplifying the flamenco guitar

O.K so much for my preference for not amplifying flamenco guitar.
There is no doubt that depending on the venue’s natural acoustics amplification is necessary and desirable.
I have very high- quality amplifiers and microphones.
Therefore I can faithfully reproduce the sound of my guitar but at a higher volume.
Once again and not wishing to be tedious it is not all about being loud.
Cleanness of tone can project across a room better than a loud muffled sound.
The key is to find the optimal microphone position, the distance between microphone and amplifier and to carefully find the ideal volume level.

The PAT test for portable amplification.

Sorry people, it is worth the paper it is written on.
The PAT test is a kind of MOT for portable electronic devices.
A qualified electrician provides a certificate that on the day of the test no problems were detected.
When using my amplification, I check it carefully before setting off to the event.

Public Liability Insurance

First of all, to set your mind at rest.
I do not have any equipment that could possibly damage anything at your venue.
There are no risk elements in my performance.
I am sitting somewhere in your home or public venue playing flamenco guitar.

My own opinion is that if all people are sensible and responsible the PAT and Public Liability Insurance are just for peace of mind.