"Sound technicians operate technical equipment to amplify, enhance, record, mix or reproduce sound in support of performing arts, and may also assemble and maintain sound equipment."

A sound technician may perform the following tasks:

• determine sound requirements
• set up, test and operate equipment in accordance with the acoustics of the area and select, place and adjust microphones
• monitor audio signals to detect quality deviations or malfunctions
• service, maintain and repair amplifiers, tuners, receivers, digital audio systems, turntables and pick-ups, reel-to-reel and cassette-type tape recorders, and speaker systems
• build and install sound systems
• dub and edit tapes
• operate controls to maintain correct sound levels
• talk with performers and instruct them on microphone use
• introduce pre-recorded special effects required by scripts.

Sound technicians may work in radio, television and recording studios, or in theatres and other live performance venues.They may also work in wholesale and retail businesses trading in sound reproduction, recording and public address equipment. In some cases, they specialise in operating or maintaining sound equipment.

Sound technicians may be required to work shifts that involve long hours in the evenings and on weekends. They often work under difficult conditions and, with outdoor concerts, in variable weather.

Personal Requirements:

• a good ear for detail in all areas of sound
• aptitude for working with computers and audio equipment
• able to work under pressure.

Graduates develp generic skills in:

• Creative self expression
• Capacity to analyse and interpret in a dispassionate and objective manner
• Critical thinking and conceptual ability
• Flexibility, adaptibilty and resourcefullness
• Commitment
• Knowledge application, problem solving and decision making
• Computer literacy
• Self motivation, initiative and willingness to learn
• Sell assurance and self promotion skills, personal growth/critical self awareness
• Data acquisition, analysis, research techniques and marshalling facts in support of arguments
• Understanding of cultural differences
• Written expression, communication and linguistic skills

Relevant Degrees. These links will take you directly to the UTas handbook Bachelor of Music Bachelor of Contemporary Arts

For further information... Download the Creative Arts brochure In Adobe Acrobat format Faculty of Arts Career Selector Contact the Conservatorium of Music or the School of Visual and Performing Arts for more information