SHANE THERIOT
shanetheriot.com
A Grammy-winning producer, composer and guitarist, Shane Theriot’s versatility in the studio and on the stage has led to work with artists from all genres of music, including Willie Nelson, Beyoncé, the Neville Brothers, Dr. John, Jewel, Rickie Lee Jones, Hall & Oates, Boz Scaggs, LeAnn Rimes, John Waite, John Rzeznick (Goo Goo Dolls), Sam Moore, Steve Earle, Gavin DeGraw, Ben Folds, Little Feat and Sammy Hagar. As a composer, his compositions have been featured on ESPN, MTV, VH1, Food Network and others. Currently, Theriot is the Music Director for Daryl Hall’s award-winning show Live from Daryl’s House on MTV Live.
What do you do as a Music Director?
On Daryl’s House I act as a conduit between Daryl Hall and his guests. I’ll help choose songs, put them in the appropriate key and arrange them. Then I’ll write charts for the players and conduct a quick rehearsal. Each episode is like doing an EP.
What kind of challenges do you deal with?
There are a lot of stars on this show, and dealing with all the different personalities and egos can take time. I go back and forth, repeatedly, just to make sure everyone feels comfortable. Fortunately I’ve done a lot of recording sessions, so I learned how to relate with different personalities.
What are some of your best rehearsal tips?
Every rehearsal needs a leader and a plan that maximizes the time. I’ll use a Dropbox to get the material to the musicians. Then they need to do their homework, i.e. learn it and be ready to play. And, just as important, everyone should come in with a good attitude and be courteous.
What should be avoided?
No one should be learning their parts during rehearsal. That’s a huge waste of time. Also, if something isn’t working, don’t overdo it––you’ll lose the feel and tensions will flair. Either move on and come back to it later, or substitute something else.
How important are showmanship and performance skills?
For live shows they’re very important. Daryl’s House is a TV show and everyone is on camera, so it’s one of our main concerns. As such, if needed we’ll work on a player’s performance. And although we use charts to rehearse, we don’t use them when we’re shooting.
Related: Live from Daryl's House Kicks Off on MTV Live
What makes for a good rehearsal?
A rehearsal will only be as good as your preparation and work ethic. If you’re not prepared and don’t work at it, you’re not going to get results. Really, artists need to understand that rehearsals should have a goal. It’s not just about jamming together, unless that’s all you want to do. •
