Studio sound engineer apprenticeships - where to start
You can get into this job through
a university coursea college coursean apprenticeshipworking towards this rolespecialist courses run by private training providers
University
You could do a foundation degree or degree in:
- sound engineering and production
- audio engineering
- music production
You'll usually need at least 1 A-Level, or equivalent, for a foundation degree. You'll need 2 to 3 A -Levels, or equivalent, for a degree.
College
You could take a college course, like:
- Level 3 Diploma in Sound Production
- Level 3 Diploma in Music Technology
You'll usually need 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent.
Apprenticeship
You could complete a creative venue technician or technical theatre Level 3 apprenticeship, which have options in sound. You'll usually need 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths.
Work
You could start as a runner or an assistant in a recording studio and work your way up by learning basic tasks and making contacts.
Volunteering
You can work on community music events, DJ projects, hospital or community radio, or mix and record music in a home studio and post your work online.
Other Routes
You could do short courses offered by private training providers to build up your skills and knowledge. This is a job where getting experience and making contacts is important to help you to find work.
You'll need a good knowledge of music and recording technology. You may also find it useful to understand physics and electronics.
Studio sound engineer apprenticeships - what it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
- the ability to work well with others
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- to be flexible and open to change
- persistence and determination
- customer service skills
- knowledge of media production and communication
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
Studio sound engineer apprenticeships - what you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
In your day-to-day duties you could:
- plan recording sessions with producers and artists
- set up microphones and equipment in the studio
- make sure the volume and recording levels are set correctly
- operate recording equipment and add effects
- record each instrument or vocal onto a separate track
- mix tracks to produce a final 'master' track
- log recordings and other details of the session in the studio archive
Working environment
You could work at a recording studio.
Your working environment may be emotionally demanding and you may spend nights away from home.
Career path and progression - Studio sound engineer apprenticeships
With experience, you could specialise in a particular technical skill, become a music producer, studio manager, or start your own recording studio.