For Jazz Big Band-(let someone else make suggestions on how to mic an orchestra)
A few ways to go with your set-up.
A good room is a must, high ceiling and no bad reflections (if possible)
OK, here we go:
saxophone section in a circle around a LDC(tube) set to omni
brass section: 4 trumpets standing or on risers behind 3 or 4 trombones. Mic the entire section with 1 LDC (cardioid). Purchase (2) ribbon mics (Royer or AEA will do). Use ribbon mics as solo/spot mics in the trumpet section. 1 between tpt 1&2 and another between tpt 3&4.
Piano: one or 2 mics of your choice. I prefer 1 M49 or U47(cardioid) type LDC for a good pno, or 2 sdc's over the hammers, or 1 sdc in a hole(RVG style).
bass: 1 sdc(cardioid) on G string side of bridge about 6"-12" away from f-hole.
drums: 1 LDC to capture the entire set. You won't need a bass drum mic, there will be plenty of leakage.
Remember, leakage is your friend, use it to your advantage.
Start listening to classic big band recordings of the late '50s/early '60s. These were done with 12 or fewer mics, and no isolation or bass direct.
Some good examples:
Duke Ellington-"Such Sweet Thunder", "The Nutcracker Suite", "Afro Bossa", "The Far East Suite"
Count Basie-"Broadway...Basie's Way", "Chairman of the Board", "April in Paris".
Actually, any big band record recorded on Columbia, Mercury, Command, Capitol, Verve, RCA or Blue Note should do nicely.
If you have more questions, PM me.
