Programs

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Program Overview

The Audio Engineering Education & Apprenticeship Program is an immersive, hands-on training initiative designed to prepare aspiring engineers, producers, and music professionals for real-world studio work. Hosted within a fully operational professional recording studio, the program combines classroom instruction with live, supervised recording sessions featuring real bands and artists.

Participants gain practical experience across all stages of the recording process—from signal flow and microphone selection to tracking, editing, mixing, and session management—under the guidance of veteran audio engineers.

Program Goals

• Provide equitable access to professional-level recording education
• Preserve and pass down traditional and modern studio recording practices
• Prepare participants for entry-level studio employment or freelance work
• Develop technical, creative, and professional skills through real sessions
• Build confidence by working in a functioning, professional studio environment

Curriculum Components

1. Classroom Instruction 

Structured lessons led by professional engineers and guest instructors.

Core topics include:

• Studio signal flow & patching
• Analog and digital recording fundamentals
• Microphone types, placement, and application
• Console operation & DAW workflows
• Session setup, documentation, and file management
• Tracking techniques for drums, bass, guitars, vocals, and ensembles
• Editing, comping, and basic mixing concepts
• Studio etiquette, communication, and professionalism
• Music industry fundamentals and career pathways

2. Hands-On Studio Apprenticeship

Participants transition from classroom learning to live studio work.

Studio responsibilities include:

• Assisting with session setup and breakdown
• Mic placement and signal routing
• Operating recording software under supervision
• Managing session documentation and backups
• Observing and assisting professional engineers
• Working directly with artists in a professional setting

Each cohort records at least one full band project, from pre-production through final mixes.

3. Professional Oversight

• Sessions overseen by a lead professional audio engineer
• Emphasis on real-world problem solving and workflow
• Exposure to multiple engineering styles and approaches

Culminating Project

Each participant contributes to a professionally recorded project that may include:

• A finished multi-track recording
• Mixing stems or reference mixes
• Session notes and documentation

Participants leave with real credits, experience, and portfolio materials.