Stepping into sound engineering – Emily's Sound Check story
After excelling in the Sound Check adult learning programme, we caught up with Emily to get her take on how the Sound Check programme has helped her kickstart a career in live music and events.
From no experience to clear confidence
“I started the Sound Check programme with no experience in live music or events but that didn’t matter at all.
“From the start, everyone was so helpful and supportive, working in teams to work together on tasks like setting up the stage.
“I had loads of questions from day one, but my tutor answered them all and made sure I understood everything .”
Learning – hands on
“I felt like I was learning something new every week, rotating on subjects from lighting, event management or sound engineering.
“ Learning at The Learning Foundry was completely different to learning at university. There was loads of practical experience which I’ve not had at university.
"Smaller group sessions also meant I felt super supported and everyone get their questions answered.”
Behind the scenes access
“ I loved the opportunity of gain real life work experience as part of the course. Every other week, we got to do placements working on gigs. This involved lighting, sound engineering and event management.
“We got to shadow somebody who already worked at the venue and take part in lots of different tasks.
“I learnt a lot of new things – event management is my favourite though!”
New skills, new experiences, improved confidence
“Sound Check definitely taught me to be open to new opportunities and say ‘yes’ to a more things.
“My communications skills have definitely improved and I feel much more comfortable meeting new people – and working with them in a team! Lots of skills I can use in my day to day life.
“I basically knew nothing about the industry before, and now, going forward I’m really excited to use the skills from my shadow shifts in practice!”
What’s next, Emily?
“ I’ve taken the next step and started the Skills Bootcamp this week! I can’t wait see where it can take me.
“ I chose to progress to the Bootcamp to expand my new skillset, work in different live music venues and levelling up on the trickier elements like sound engineering.”
"I see myself working in the live music and industry in the future - particularly events management and the sound engineering side of things.
“The big goal is to go on tour with an artist and work in the crew.”
What would you tell someone thinking about signing up for Sound Check?
"I would definitely recommend The Learning Foundry, they gave me an amazing opportunity.
“The course costs nothing and I gained so much, skills and experience.
“People at TLF are there to support you, and you’ll get to meet a lovely group of people – who knows where it could take you!”