Live sound technicians manage audio equipment at live events or on recording sets. They are responsible for sound checks, placing equipment, and sound volume and quality. Technicians record speech and music, as well as other sounds. They use mixing boards to mix and edit music, voices, and sound effects. Sometimes technicians will meet with producers or performers to determine if the sound is correct.
Where do sound technicians work?
- Recording industry
- Movie and video companies
- Radio and television broadcasting
- Performing arts
There is not much schooling required to become a sound technician. Usually, there is some required training but if you want a earn a bachelor’s or associate’s degree, degree programs are available in areas such as music production and the recording arts.
Live sound technicians can face many challenges in their job including:
- Venue set-up
- Pleasing the audience and performer
and more.
Live sound technicians should have a wide skillset of the following:
- Knowledgeable about acoustics, electronics, and equipment
- Strong communication skills
- Strong people skills
- Translating the idea of a sound into an actual sound
Check out these associate’s programs to help you become a live sound technician!
- Associate, Recording Arts at Tribeca Flashpoint College in Chicago, IL.
- Associate, Recording Arts at The Recording Arts Center in San Diego, CA.
- Associate, Arts at Los Medanos College in Brentwood, CA.
