Hey everyone, I’m a keyboard player using MainStage for 3 years (cover bands + artists), and I’d love to hear how more experienced users optimize their workflow.
My current workflow for big gigs:
I build a ״master concert״ per artist/band
Each song = a patch folder, labeled with key.
Inside each song:
Multiple patches in order of use (EP, organ, synth, etc.)
I sometimes duplicate patches, so I can just hit “Next Patch” during the song without thinking or jumping around, for example:
‘Song Name’ – Fm
- EP
- Organ
- EP
- Lead Synth
- EP
I use 2 global reverbs (short + long) at concert level
Delays are per patch (depending on the sound)
Questions:
- Is duplicating patches the best approach for this, or is there a cleaner way to go?
- Do you keep delays per patch or also route them globally?
- Do you have more FX process globally? (parallel compression? Chorus?)
- What’s your fail safe setup? (panic patch? backup concert? iPad? Digital workstation?)
My setup for small gigs / rehearsals / jams:
“MasterPatch” 8 core sounds mapped to faders:
Piano, Rhodes, Wurli, Clav, Organ, Strings, Brass, S.Pad.
I mix them live with faders (and add patches if needed)
I use this setup to mimic workstation / stage piano.
Do you have any tips on how to make MainStage behaving more like a Nord / Yamaha CP?
Would really appreciate hearing how you structure your concerts + any “wish I knew this earlier” tips.
Thanks 🙏