Music Sound Engineer

I have performed the role of both a sound and recording engineer. What's the difference? In general the primary difference is where the work is performed. Sound engineers typically perform their job on the road in a venue such as a bar, theatre or concert hall. In contrast, a recording engineer typically sticks to the recording studio or post-production facility. Regardless of the location, both recording and sound engineers are the "wizards of the sound board".

I have been recording, mixing, and editing sound for both recordings and live performances for over 10 years. I have come to find out that while the work is largely the same, I am one of the few people that can do both.

As a sound engineer and musician, I understand the needs of performing artists. I can readily produce the desired effect by taking the separate sound feeds from different sources, altering the sound of each feed, and then finally mixing the feeds. Of course, I have had my share of setting up and tearing down the sound systems that are required for live performances.

As a recording engineer, I typically use a mixing board, computer or other equipment to record and edit the music, dialogue and sound effects for recordings. I presently use the following software: Sonar, Cubase, ACID Pro and Sound Forge. I tend to work very closely with producers and the performers to achieve the desired sound.

Which role do I prefer? That is easy - a sound engineer. First and foremost, I am a musician and there is nothing better than a live performance.