From developing sound concepts and recording, to enhancing, mixing and post-production, sound engineering is hugely varied, with opportunities to build a successful career in a number of sectors.
Sound Designers are in demand - for mixing sound at live events, creating, controlling and editing sound for theatre, television, radio, film and online, or creating sound effects for games, apps and hardware.
Required skills
To be a successful Sound Engineer, you will need:
- A good ear and a demonstrable passion and enthusiasm for manipulating sound
- Excellent computer skills and proficiency working with electronic equipment
- Well-developed communication and people skills, and the ability to work flexibly as part of a team
- Good organisation and multi-tasking skills
- A willingness and ability to continually develop new skills and keep abreast of constantly changing technologies
- An understanding and familiarity of the work of Sound Engineers, Sound Designers and Sound Effects Artists through the history of audio-visual media
Sound Engineers may also find it beneficial to have skills in lighting design and video editing.
Relevant school subjects include music, music technology, physics, science, maths, IT, computer studies, design and technology, and electronics.
The National College Creative Industries offers a range of pathways for entry into a sound engineering career.