Are you thinking about a career in Music Production but not sure about what path to take or what options are available? Have no fear we have you covered!
People immediately presume that if you’re studying music production your goal is to become a big producer, making tracks in collaboration with the world’s greatest artists’. Of course, if that’s your goal, you should back yourself and put all the work in necessary to make your dream come true – but just like any other career-path, there are actually a myriad of specialised roles that each make up a vital part of the contemporary music making process.
With a focus on a diverse range of production techniques, industry relevant DAW skills, and fundamental music theory, Rockschool Music Production grades provide learners with helpful tools of communication that will support the development of working relationships with potential colleagues and collaborators in the field. Below you’ll find a few that might of interest to some of your budding music-makers reading this. Remember, you’re not limited to one! In fact, the more you can diversify your skillsets to apply yourself to multiple functions of music production, the more desirable you’ll be.
Each of the coursework tasks in the Rockschool Music Production books have been written by a top music professional as an industry relevant brief that students can complete at their own pace and inject with their own identity, around any of their current commitments.
Tim Bennett-Hart, Director of Academic
Music Producer
Everyone is very familiar with the title Music Producer, which can also be defined as a record producer or track producer. This is an essential role as it involves managing a music production or recording for a song or an album. It is also a varied role which includes conducting ideas, composing music, directing the artist overseeing and controlling recording sessions.
Audio Technician
Audio Technicians also known as live-sound/audio/vocal/mastering engineer looks after the sound process of the project. Working closely with artists and producers to ensure best quality and desired sound is delivered. Responsibilities include; editing, setting up and repairing recording equipment and developing recording devices to ensure project runs smoothly.
Recording Studio Manager
Studio Managers look after the operations aspect which includes managing and booking studio sessions, ensuring that required equipment is available, negotiating studio time prices and promoting studio for rent. This involves working closely with artists, producers, band managers interested in using studio time.
Most recording studio Managers either own the studios or are specifically hired for the role. This role doesn’t necessarily need technical knowledge as it’s operations based and qualified engineers are hired to review equipment.
Sound Designer
Sound designers also known as sound/special effects editors involves recording, editing, acquiring and generating audio elements and managing the soundscape of a recording project. Sound designers determine the best sound to use for a project and can go into multiple fields such as TV & film, Music recording and radio.
Instrument Tech
An Instrument Tech also known as an Instrument specialist is responsible for maintaining, setting up and using musical instruments for production projects such as tours and concerts. Understanding of electronic systems and software along with practical skills is vital if you are planning to become an Instrument Tech.
Sound Mixer
The sound mixer manages the volume of the sound and quality of a recording/audio and mainly work on live music productions as they are required to make necessary adjustments before audio is made live. If you are considering becoming a Sound Mixer you are required to have technical knowledge in using sound mixing devices.
Radio Broadcast Engineer
A Radio Broadcast Engineer looks after the maintenance, repairs and operations of the sound equipment for radio stations. Expertise in using broadcasting devices such as computers systems found in radio booths are essential for this role.
Digital Audio Editor
Digital Audio Editors are responsible for making digital audits which include mixing, cutting, cleaning and making an overall tone for a production. They work very closely with directors during and post production choosing appropriate sound effects, manipulating dialogues and re-shooting sounds.
If you’d like to take a look into studying via Rockschool’s Music Production material, simply click on the links below to review the Syllabus Guide, purchase your book or even enter for your first exam!