To prove the importance of music in our lives, Modest Mouse had once said-“Music is to the soul what words are to the mind”. Being a form of art, Music acts as a medium for individuals to showcase their creativity. Since music makes our brain waves sync to the beats and lightens our mood, it is also used in therapy sessions across the world. However, music cannot be made overnight. A lot of efforts is put in by skilled professionals to bring out music that touches the soul. A major part of this process is handled by music engineers. Thus, In this blog, we will shed light on the important aspects of starting a career in Music Engineering and what career prospects it has.
What is Music Engineering?
Music engineers are technical specialists who are responsible for setting up and operating sound equipment that mix, record, produce, and edit sounds. Even though there is stiff competition in this field, there is no requirement of prior work experience to get an entry-level job. The Music Engineering course curriculum is vast and covers an array of subjects like Audio Fundamentals, EQ and Dynamics, Mixing, Post-production, Signal-Flow, etc. The blend of theoretical knowledge and on-the-job training produces industry-ready graduates.
Also read: Diploma in Music
Skills Needed
Music is an art form that is not restricted to only a specific skill set but to build a professional career in this field, the Music Engineering graduates are required to possess certain traits apart from having a knack for good music. Some of which have been listed below:
- Communication Skills
- Music and Video Editing Skills
- Dealing with multimeters and ohmmeters
- Good Computer and Analytical skills
- Manual Dexterity
- Data Handling
- Well equipped with the functioning of equalizers
Also read: Voice over artists jobs
Music Engineering: Career Prospects
The music industry requires trained professionals who have both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. By studying this degree program, the students are equipped with industry-relevant skills which thus opens the door to an array of career opportunities. The career options mentioned below are an ideal fit for those with a major in Music Engineering or even Music Production:
[optin-monster-shortcode id=”xf2mlnjiouddzrshykdb”]- ADR Recordist
The Automated Dialogue Replacement Recordists are the engineers who are responsible for recording voice for TV shows, animated films, video games, and documentaries. They are also involved in the re-recording of the film dialogues. ADR Mixer and ADR Engineer are some of the other designations of a recordist.
- Audio Director
They are the professionals who plan, supervise, implement and create audios for games. Lead Sound Designer, Lead Audio Developer or Audio Lead are some of the designations used for such professionals
- Broadcast Engineer
Another popular work profile of a Music Engineering graduate is that of a Broadcast Engineer. They are involved in maintaining the quality of images and audios which are broadcasted on television and radio channels. They achieve this through various software and systems. The graduate starts at a lower level as an Assistant BE. After gaining some experience, they can reach up to the Chief Engineer level.
- Live Sound Mix Engineer
The professionals who manage various audio equipment for both indoor and outdoor functions are referred to as the Live sound engineers. Front of House (FOH), Monitor Mix Engineer, and Live Audio Engineer are some of the destinations.
- Acoustical Consultant/Acoustical Engineer
These engineers use their theoretical knowledge to control the issues of vibrations and noise in a built environment. They work in tandem with Architects and give advice on how to asses sound issues and design the performance spaces, rooms, studios, etc according to the client’s needs.
- Recording Engineer
Also called Studio or Audio Engineers, these professionals are not only responsible for overseeing the technical aspects of a recording session but also ensure that mixing engineers have good material to work with.
- DJ/ Remixer
This is one of the most pursued career paths by Music Engineering graduates. These specialists have sound knowledge in music and are responsible for creating a dance environment for live audiences with the altered tracks of different artists.
Thus, a career in Music Engineering can be highly rewarding. If you want to pursue this course but are not sure about how to get started with it then the experts at Leverage Edu will assist you in choosing the right university and completing the admission related formalities of the same.