When a record is a great success in business and highly praised by critics, all the honors always go to big-name singers and producers, but rarely mention the heroes behind the scenes. But don't forget, without the efforts of the heroic sound engineers behind the scenes, those records would not be able to meet the audience. The sound engineer and producer work together to make the recorded content into the best sound effect. The work of sound engineers needs the help of high-tech means and complex equipment. The sound engineer is responsible for setting up the recording studio, adjusting the volume and sound intensity, mixing, monitoring the recording on the tape and preparing the recording of the original master tape. Sound engineers are also responsible for the sound effects of live concerts or music festivals.
Learning path
Although some sound engineers have entered this industry without formal undergraduate education or vocational education, most sound engineers have received basic education and training from universities or specialized institutions. Considering the extremely complex technology involved in recording, all the vocational education programs run by professionals who have become sound recorders are worthy of attention. A-level courses for music majors will give you a basic introduction and help you build a concept. Many universities offer introductory courses in audio technology.
As far as continuing learning is concerned, it has many possibilities. A wide range of courses were eventually introduced into the profession of sound engineers, and British universities awarded them their own academic certificates in sound technology, music technology and music practice. Undergraduate admission standards vary, some schools require five GCSE passes, and some require at least two A-level passes.
We should also realize that the course of audio technology is closely integrated with other courses, such as electrical engineering or computer science. The study of these courses will bring you a wider range of skills and make you more attractive to employers. After completing the course, I may follow up some areas of vocational education, such as the City Association of London &; Guilds audio technology professional qualification certification, with GCSE as the primary level, reached the industry recognized level 3. Others can also choose undergraduate and preparatory education, or HND education in electronic or music technology.
In addition to academic education, the industry experience of working in a professional recording studio is very important for a recording engineer. Apply to the local recording and broadcasting organization for some opportunities to give you work experience.
working environment
Although sound engineers are in the "downtown area" of the music industry, their work does not only mean the glory when they often hang out with those singers. In fact, the job of a sound engineer is extremely hard, engaging in repetitive work, editing music into small pieces and listening to it repeatedly until a perfect sound balance effect is obtained. In addition, recording engineers have to work alone for a long time and often face urgent time pressure.
Career possibility
Like all jobs in the music industry, recording and audio is an extremely competitive employment field. As artists use high-quality recording technology and software to record audio-visual products that can be released in this area, many singers and bands have reduced the time spent in expensive recording studios. As a sound recorder, the contact with the music industry can not be ignored, and the more indispensable ability is to use these contacts to turn them into opportunities to show your abilities and make potential employers interested in you.
The sound engineer will eventually choose a special field to go deep into, such as recording the original master tape and post-production of the recording. Some people will develop in the direction of recording TV or radio programs. Some sound engineers may eventually become producers and take on more creative work in the recording studio. If the economic situation and experience permit, some sound engineers will also create their own recording studios.
Skill requirements
Obviously, the job of a sound engineer requires long-term fine-tuning of quite fine parts of the recording tape, which requires great enthusiasm for music and related knowledge. The sound engineer should be able to hear what is behind that song, distinguish and choose different sounds, and at the same time, the sound engineer should have excellent listening skills in pitch, timing, rhythm and so on. There is no doubt that the sound engineer must have a keen and balanced hearing.
Sound engineers are closely related to technical aspects, such as wiring and equipment assembly. The basic knowledge of electricity and electronics, as well as the actual wiring ability are very important, and of course these will continue to develop in the career of sound engineers.
Sound engineers should have good interpersonal communication skills and great patience. Communication ability is particularly important when expressing what kind of sound a musical work should have.
Related websites
www.music-directory.co.uk
A guide to the British music, film and television industry
The website links to all British record companies and the latest news and information.
www.bpi.co.uk
British record industry
The website has the latest news of the recording industry, including official British pop charts, career information and educational resources.
www.soundengineer.co.uk
Sound technician
It provides various information and resources for professionals in the audio industry, including employment opportunities and related publications.
www.recording-engineer.net
The Recordist
This website provides information and suggestions on home broadcast control equipment to help you maximize your intelligence.