Mixing Engineer

Q: Tell us about a project you worked on you are especially proud of and why. What was your role?

A: One project I am particularly proud of is a collaboration with an independent artist who had a strong vision for a concept album. My role involved overseeing the entire production process, from recording and arranging to mixing. The album demanded intricate attention to detail and sonic cohesion to maintain the narrative flow. It was immensely rewarding to witness the artist's vision come to life and to be a part of creating a cohesive musical journey that resonated with listeners on a profound level.

Q: What are you working on at the moment?

A: Currently, I am working on a project with an up-and-coming Pop artist. We are focusing on capturing raw and emotive performances that reflect the artist's personal journey. From production to mixing, I am dedicated to shaping the sonic landscape of their music to create a deeply immersive experience for the listeners.

Q: Is there anyone on SoundBetter you know and would recommend to your clients?

A: While I'm not familiar with specific individuals on SoundBetter, I highly recommend exploring the platform and connecting with professionals who align with your artistic goals. SoundBetter provides a vast network of talented audio engineers, producers, and musicians who can bring unique perspectives and expertise to your project. I encourage clients to carefully review profiles, listen to portfolios, and engage in conversations to find the perfect fit for their needs.

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: Both analog and digital have their merits, and I believe in utilizing the strengths of each to achieve the desired result. Digital technology offers unparalleled flexibility, convenience, and limitless creative possibilities, while analog equipment imparts a unique warmth, character, and sonic signature. I embrace a hybrid approach, combining the best of both worlds, to create a sound that is technically precise and emotionally captivating.

Q: What's your 'promise' to your clients?

A: My promise to my clients is to provide a dedicated and professional approach to every project. I promise to actively listen to their ideas, understand their unique artistic vision, and bring out the best in their music through meticulous attention to detail. I am committed to delivering high-quality audio productions that exceed their expectations and create a lasting impact.

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: What I love most about my job is the opportunity to collaborate with talented artists and bring their musical visions to life. Witnessing the transformative power of audio production and seeing how it connects with listeners on an emotional level is incredibly fulfilling. The ability to be a part of the creative process and contribute to the success of a project is truly rewarding.

Q: What questions do customers most commonly ask you? What's your answer?

A: Customers often ask about the process and timeline of their project. My answer typically involves discussing the specific requirements of their project, outlining the steps involved, and providing an estimated timeline based on the scope of work. I ensure that clear communication channels are established so that clients feel involved and informed throughout the process.

Q: What's the biggest misconception about what you do?

A: One of the biggest misconceptions about audio engineering is that it's solely a technical process. While technical expertise is essential, the role of an audio engineer goes beyond that. It's about capturing the essence and emotion of the music, bringing out the best in the artist's performance, and creating a captivating sonic experience. It's a creative and collaborative art form that requires both technical proficiency and a keen musical sensibility.

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: When engaging with prospective clients, I strive to understand their artistic goals and aspirations. I ask about their musical influences, preferred sound aesthetics, and the emotions they want to evoke with their music. Additionally, I inquire about their timeline, budget, and any specific technical requirements they may have. By gathering this information, I can tailor my approach and ensure that we are aligned in our creative vision.

Q: What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?

A: When looking to hire an audio professional, I recommend considering their experience, portfolio, and client testimonials. Communication is crucial, so ensure that the provider understands your artistic vision and has a collaborative mindset. Look for someone who is adaptable, has a strong attention to detail, and possesses technical expertise in your desired genre. Ultimately, choose someone who is dedicated to elevating your music and committed to delivering exceptional results.

Q: If you were on a desert island and could take just 5 pieces of gear, what would they be?

A: If I had to choose only five pieces of gear, I would take my trusted pair of studio monitors for accurate monitoring, a versatile microphone for capturing various instruments and vocals, a high-quality audio interface for seamless connectivity, a portable MIDI controller for creative flexibility, and a reliable laptop loaded with my preferred digital audio workstation (DAW) to continue creating music in the limited setting.

Q: What was your career path? How long have you been doing this?

A: I have been passionately pursuing a career in audio engineering for over five years. After obtaining my BA in Music Recording and Production, I started working as a freelancer, collaborating with various artists and labels. I then gained valuable experience at renowned studios and honed my skills by working with Grammy-winning engineers. This journey has allowed me to continuously grow as an audio professional and refine my craft.

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: My style can be described as polished and dynamic. I strive to create clean and impactful mixes that enhance the emotional impact of the music. I believe in maintaining a balance between the technical aspects of audio engineering and the artistic vision of the artist, resulting in a cohesive and engaging sonic experience.

Q: Which artist would you like to work with and why?

A: I would love to work with artists who are pushing the boundaries of their genres and creating innovative music. One artist who has been inspiring me lately is Anderson .Paak. His fusion of R&B, funk, and hip-hop is incredibly refreshing, and his attention to detail in production and performance is remarkable. Collaborating with him would be an exciting opportunity to explore new sonic landscapes and create music that resonates with audiences on a deep level.

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: One important music production tip is to focus on capturing great performances during the recording stage. While technical aspects and gear are essential, the emotional connection and energy conveyed in a performance are equally crucial. Creating an environment where artists feel comfortable and inspired can result in truly exceptional recordings that form the foundation for an outstanding mix.

Q: What type of music do you usually work on?

A: I usually work on a wide range of genres, but my specialization lies in Pop and R&B music. I have extensive experience in these genres and understand the nuances and production techniques that contribute to their success. However, I am versatile and open to working on projects from other genres as well, as I believe that diversity in musical styles enhances my creativity and adaptability.

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: My strongest skill is my ability to create polished and professional mixes that capture the essence of the music. I have a keen ear for detail and a deep understanding of how to shape and enhance the sonic elements to create a captivating listening experience. Whether it's achieving a balanced and punchy drum sound, crafting rich and expressive vocals, or creating a wide and immersive soundstage, I excel in bringing out the best in every aspect of a mix.

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: I bring a combination of technical expertise, creativity, and a deep understanding of various music genres to every song I work on. I strive to enhance the emotional impact and sonic quality of the music, ensuring it resonates with listeners on a profound level. Through careful attention to detail, precise balance, and the use of innovative techniques, I bring out the unique character and potential of each song, elevating it to its fullest expression.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: My typical work process starts with a detailed discussion with the artist or client to understand their artistic vision and project requirements. Once we have a clear direction, I begin by organizing the recording session, selecting appropriate microphones and gear, and ensuring a comfortable and inspiring environment for the artists. During mixing, I meticulously balance the individual elements, enhance the sonic characteristics, and create a cohesive and impactful mix. I prioritize effective communication and collaboration with the client throughout the entire process, ensuring their creative vision is realized.

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: My studio setup is a carefully designed environment that combines state-of-the-art gear and acoustically treated spaces. I work in an acoustically treated control room equipped with industry-standard monitors bu Neumann and Kali Audio, headphones by Audeze and a selection of audio equipment, including Prism Atlas, Dangerous BAX EQ, and ADDA converters inculding Benchmark DAC3 and Burl B2. I utilize a range of high-quality microphones, outboard gear, and a variety of software plugins to achieve the desired sound for each project. This setup allows me to deliver professional-grade audio with exceptional clarity and precision.

Q: What other musicians or music production professionals inspire you?

A: I draw inspiration from a diverse range of musicians and music production professionals. Some notable inspirations include Max Martin for his innovative approach to pop music production, Greg Kurstin for his versatility and ability to create unique sonic landscapes, and Serban Ghenea for his exceptional mixing skills. Additionally, artists like Beyoncé, Frank Ocean, and Bruno Mars inspire me with their artistic vision and dedication to pushing boundaries.

Q: Describe the most common type of work you do for your clients.

A: The most common type of work I do for my clients is recording and mixing their music. I collaborate with artists to capture their performances in the best possible way, using advanced recording techniques and high-quality equipment.