You Never Stop Learning How To Be A Sound Tech

Recently, I was viewing a group page on social networking site pertaining to the bad installation of sound systems from around the world. One post showed a mixing console that was covered in plexiglass sheets preventing users from getting at all the controls except for the faders. The comments on this page were mainly about how the mixing console was all locked up preventing the sound techs or any other users from messing with the controls.

When I saw the picture, I immediately thought "why don't they just train the sound techs how to operate the gear correctly?". Someone else mentioned that the venue probably didn't want to spend the money on training. Maybe that is true but, it is still a good idea for the venue to make sure that the sound techs know how to use the system properly.

For a sound technician to perform their job correctly, they do need to have the proper training to work with the sound system in the venue. I know there are great sound technicians out there that would be willing to help train a newbie sound technician even without a pay cheque! The newbie sound technician must be willing to learn and not be "know it all" kind of person. It would be worth the time for the sound tech to get trained properly on the sound system to become a proficient operator.

Personally, I am always learning how to be a better sound technician. I started when I was teenager back in my high school drama club. I am 45 now and I am still learning more sound knowledge from industry professionals and other fellow sound technicians in my area. I have been using social networking to connect with industry professionals seeking sound tech advice and tips on how to be a better sound tech. 

You would be surprised how much knowledge can be obtained by just contacting a industry professional and asking for help. Most industry professionals are more than willing to share their acquired knowledge with another person who wants to learn the craft. Contact you local theatre or performance venue and contact the house technician to see if they would be willing to help you with your sound training. You never know if you don't ask!

If you get the chance to work with industry sound professionals on a gig, don't be afraid to ask for help. Ask that person to teach you how to do something you are not sure of. Ask them for their time before or after a gig to show you a sound mixing technique or a trick of the trade. Offer to take that person out to lunch or for a brew and ask them for sound tech knowledge from their years of experience. You will glad you did!