Can You Combine Two Keyboard Books Into One File?
Sometimes, a production asks whether two keyboard books can be combined into one MainStage file so one player can cover material from more than one book.
In some cases, this may be possible as a custom programming request, but it is not always practical and it is not part of a standard KeyboardTEK order.
Table of Contents
Standard Programming Is Built by Book
Combining Books Is a Custom Request
One Computer Should Not Be Used for Two Separate Players
Why This May Not Work for Every Show
Standard Programming Is Built by Book
KeyboardTEK programming is normally provided according to the licensed orchestration and the individual keyboard books for that show.
For example, if a show has Keyboard 1 and Keyboard 2 books, those are typically separate player parts and separate programming files.
Each book is designed to support the player performing that written part.
Combining Books Is a Custom Request
Combining material from two keyboard books into one file may be possible in some cases, but it requires custom review and may require custom programming.
This is not included automatically with a standard order.
KeyboardTEK would need to review the show, the orchestration, the cuts, and the specific parts you are trying to combine before confirming whether the request is possible.
What We Need From You
If you want KeyboardTEK to review a possible combined-book setup, please provide as much detail as possible.
Helpful information includes:
- The name of the show
- Which keyboard books you want to combine
- Whether the production is using the full orchestration or a reduced orchestration
- Any approved cuts or edits
- Which player will cover which material
- Specific patch combinations or cue changes you are requesting
- Your production timeline
The more specific the request, the easier it is for KeyboardTEK to determine whether the work is possible and whether a custom quote is needed.
One Computer Should Not Be Used for Two Separate Players
Do not use one computer or one MainStage file for two separate keyboard players at the same time.
If two musicians are playing two separate keyboard books, each player should have their own appropriate setup.
A combined file may be considered only when one player is intentionally covering selected material from more than one book.
Why This May Not Work for Every Show
Combining keyboard books can create musical and technical problems.
For example:
- Two books may have overlapping cues.
- Patch changes may happen at different times.
- Sounds may require different splits, layers, or controller settings.
- A single player may not be able to physically play both parts.
- The combined setup may not match the licensed orchestration.
- The request may require approval or clarification from the licensing company.
Because of this, KeyboardTEK cannot guarantee that two books can be combined for every show.
Still Have Questions?
Contact KeyboardTEK Support before ordering if you are considering a combined-book setup.
When contacting us, please include:
- The name of the show
- Your licensing company
- Which books you want to combine
- Your production dates
- Whether you have cuts, edits, or a reduced orchestration
- Whether you need a quote for custom programming