Can Someone With No Background in Music Make It as a Sound Engineer?

Student, parent, doctor, homemaker, DJ, artist, economist, lawyer, chartered accountant, actor, model, photographer, mechanic, chef – no matter you do in life, stepping into the world of sound engineering is a possibility for you.


Fresh out of university with a degree in business administration that was forced upon you? Sound engineering is a possibility for you. If your interest lies in producing impeccable audio for music, movies, radio, television and live events, you can make it as a sound engineer. And your love for music is all you need!


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What exactly is sound engineering?

Sound engineering is more than just fiddling with knobs on a fancy-looking soundboard. From microphone technicians to audio production managers, the goal of sound engineers is to use their technical skills and knowledge to produce crystal clear sound for any recording or broadcast program, on a variety of platforms.

The job leads you to work with a wide variety of production professionals including musical artists, movie directors and editors, television/news crew, studio managers and radio presenters.


How does one become a sound engineer?

Unlike the traditional career path of a medical doctor or a lawyer, there are no official methods or ‘must have’ degrees, licenses or certifications necessary to become a sound engineer. However, a successful career of sound engineering relies heavily on thorough and up-to-date technical knowledge.

In order to become familiar with the equipment used in the industry, it is therefore necessary to undergo some hands-on training. There are several sound engineering courses in India ranging in length from six months to two years or you can opt for a holistic bachelor degree in sound engineering.

Armed with the appropriate knowledge and some industry connections, the next step is to gain experience. Through internships and apprenticeships, industry knowhow and contacts can be built even by being a simple stage hand or microphone technician.

Eventually, as your experience grows, you can become a freelance sound technician, join the crew of a TV program or a studio or manage the audio production of an event. Depending on your level of expertise, you can earn anywhere from Rs. 5000 – Rs. 50,000 per month.

If you wish to learn more about sound engineering and the opportunities under this ever-so-popular domain,  check out our career guide for an in-depth insight into sound engineering as a career.


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What does it take to make it as a sound engineer?

There is no doubt that in the current world, where audio-visual media is revolutionizing communication, proficient sound technicians are essential and in high demand. But making a sound engineering career in India or even abroad will come with its fair share of challenges.


1. First, besides sound technical knowledge, experience and contacts, good sound engineers have to keep up with the changes that occur as audio technology adapts and grows.


2. Second, as Dave Swallow states in his How To Become A Sound Engineer article, in order to find continued success and job satisfaction, knowing why you want to be a sound engineer is the key. Meeting celebrities and musicians may be added perks of the job, handling expensive equipment is enjoyable, but it takes professional commitment to pure sound that will set you apart.


3. Third, a willingness to work across media platforms will not only help you with experience, it opens up a range of possibilities. A great sound engineer is open to working on Cable TV, Advertising, Studio Music, Theatre, Film and Corporate Events. Your career may have started in radio as a voiceover engineer, but it could end working with live sound in concerts as the Front of House engineer or the studio head at YRF. Who knows!


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In this age of technical revolution, a sound engineering career is both rewarding and relevant. The fantastic part is, even without a background in music, you can develop the skills needed to make it as a sound engineer, so step into the world of mixing, mastering and melody with Seamedu School of Pro-Expressionism’s sound engineering degree and diploma in sound engineering today!

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Written by: Pinak Agte

Last updated: 08-03-2024

Pinak Agte started has been part of many music shows including a concept show ‘Rahmania’ which is based on the life and philosophy of music maestro A.R.Rahman. He is an alumni of Film and Television Institute of India, Pune and have recorded, designed sound for many Films, Documentaries, Advertisements and Web Series.

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