Live sound engineer

You can do a foundation degree, higher national diploma, or degree in a related subject like:

• sound engineering
• sound engineering and music production
• sound, light and live event engineering

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
• student finance for fees and living costs|https://www.gov.uk/student-finance
• university courses and entry requirements|https://www.ucas.com/

Some sound engineers start by taking a college course to develop their skills before looking for work.

Related subjects include:

• music technology
• sound technology
• technical theatre

Entry requirements

Entry requirements for these courses vary.

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
• guide to T Levels|https://www.tlevels.gov.uk/
• funding advice|https://www.gov.uk/further-education-courses/financial-help
• search for courses|/find-a-course

You could apply for an apprenticeship to get into this role, for example:

• Creative Industries Production Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
• Audio Visual Technician Level 5 Higher Apprenticeship

These take around 2 years to complete.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
• guide to apprenticeships|https://www.gov.uk/apprenticeships-guide

You can get practical experience of using sound equipment to help your career prospects. This may be part of a course or you can try:

• helping backstage in a theatre
• being a roadie for a band
• rigging a sound system in amateur or student theatre, or for local bands
• working for a sound equipment manufacturer or hire company

Several drama schools offer degrees and diplomas in technical theatre accredited by the Federation of Drama Schools . Some of these courses include lighting and stage management as well as sound.

Professional and Industry Bodies

You can join The Institute of Sound, Communications and Visual Engineers for professional recognition, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.

As a live sound engineer, you could:

• discuss the production sound needs with the director or sound designer
• identify places in the script where any sound effects, music and changes in sound level are needed
• pre-record any sound effects and music
• position and rig up microphones
• complete sound checks before a performance
• operate the sound desk during shows
• follow a sound plan (known as a 'plot') and cues from the deputy stage manager
• look after and repair equipment
• unload, set up, dismantle and load equipment at each venue when on tour

You could work in a theatre, at events or at a recording studio.

Your working environment may be at height, hot, outdoors some of the time and you may spend nights away from home.