Sound and Light Technician School and Training

<p>Talented sound and light technicians are the keys to putting everyone in the right mood for the show people have come to see. A proper balance between what people are hearing from the performances on stage and what registers simultaneously with their eyes can make or break the immersive environment. </p> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><td> <b>Degrees</b> </td><td> Associate's or bachelor's degree in film production</td></tr> <tr><td> <b>Training</b> </td><td> Apprenticeship opportunities</td></tr> <tr><td> <b>Courses</b> </td><td> Cinematography, lighting and sound, video editing, camera operation, design, screenwriting</td></tr> </table><h3 id="section---WhatDoesASoundAndLightTechnicianDo">What Does a Sound and Light Technician Do?</h3> <p>Sound and light technicians work in the entertainment industry to set up and operate lighting and sound systems to be used in shows. You may also need to learn to maintain and repair the equipment you use. To perform the duties of a sound and light technician, you may need to lift heavy objects, work in high places and work long hours. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatTypeOfTrainingShouldIHave">What Type of Training Should I Have?</h3> <p>An apprenticeship may be able to help you get the training you need to be a light and sound technician. Obtaining an associate's or bachelor's degree in film production will also help you in your career. Training programs separate from degree programs may also be available through a school near you. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatCoursesWouldITakeInAFilmMakingProgram">What Courses Would I Take in a Film-Making Program?</h3> <p>Bachelor of Fine Arts programs related to film-making offer courses on light and sound, in addition to many other skills valuable to working in film production. These programs involve coursework in many areas of film production and can prepare you for a variety of jobs in film-making. Some of the course topics you might explore are listed as follows: </p> <ul><li>Design </li><li>Screenwriting </li><li>Video editing </li><li>Light </li><li>Sound </li></ul><h3 id="section---WhatAboutCoursesInAnAssociateSDegreeProgram">What About Courses in an Associate's Degree Program?</h3> <p>Associate's degree programs offer courses on light and sound as well. An Associate of Fine Arts in Filmmaking might be an available option. These programs may focus on the applicable skills for a sound and light technician. You might take some of the following courses in your associate's degree program: </p> <ul><li>Cinematography </li><li>Camera operation </li><li>Editing film </li><li>Writing </li><li>Technical skills </li></ul><h3 id="section---WhatWouldAnApprenticeshipEntail">What Would an Apprenticeship Entail?</h3> <p>Apprenticeships are positions that train you as you start your career as a light and sound technician by allowing you to gain hands-on experience in the field. These positions typically compensate you for your work. You may be able to work as an apprentice either after you graduate or while you're still in school. The necessary level of education depends on the organization offering the apprenticeship.</p>