Sound designer jobs in Finland
Sound designers develop a sound design concept for a performance and supervise the execution of it. Their work is based on research and artistic vision. Their design is influenced by and influences other designs and must be conform with these designs and the overall artistic vision. Therefore, the designers work closely with artistic directors, operators and the artistic team. Sound designers prepare audio fragments to be used in a performance, which can involve recording, composing, manipulating and editing. During rehearsals and performance they coach the operators to obtain optimal timing and manipulation. Sound designers develop plans, cue lists and other documentation to support the operators and production crew. Sound designers sometimes also work as autonomous artists, creating sound art outside a performance context.
Sound designer - Which skills are essential?
Analyse the artistic concept, form and structure of a live performance based on observation during rehearsals or improvisation. Create a structured base for the design process of a specific production.
Identify and explore recent developments in technology and materials used in the live performance industry, in order to create an up-to-date technical background for one’s personal design work.
Apply ergonomy principles in the organisation of the workplace while manually handling equipment and materials.
Mix recorded sound from several sources using a mix panel, and edit it to obtain the desired mix.
Observe the show, anticipate and react to possible technical problems, ensuring optimal artistic quality.
Analysing the score, form, themes and structure of a piece of music.
Identify and investigate sociological trends and movements in society.
Analyse the selection and distribution of material elements on a stage.
Control and ensure the quality of design results during a run.
Efficient communication during live performance, anticipate any possible malfunctioning.
Updating the design results based on observation of the stage image during the rehearsals, especially where the different designs and the action are integrated.
Thorough research for information to develop new ideas and concepts for the design of a specific production based.
Work with artists, striving to understand the creative vision and adapting to it. Make full use of your talents and skills to reach the best possible result.
Program sound cues and rehearse sound states before or during rehearsals.
Interpret an artistic plan and verify whether the described design can be executed.
Operate an audio mixing system during rehearsals or during live performances.
Set up, test and operate different types of communication equipment such as transmission equipment, digital network equipment, or telecommunications equipment.
Mix audio signals from multiple sound sources during rehearsals or in a live situation.
Give instructions to all team members about how they should run the performance.
Ensure operative processes are finished at a previously agreed-upon time.
Break down a script by analysing the dramaturgy, form, themes and structure of a script. Conduct relevant research if necessary.
Recording and mixing audio signals from different sound sources on a multi-track recorder.
Assess past artistic activities with a view to improving future projects.
Prepare and present detailed design suggestions for a specific production to a mixed group of people, including technical, artistic and management staff.
Adapt an existing design to changed circumstances and ensure that the artistic quality of the original design is reflected in the final result.
Make the necessary arrangements to record music.
Understand and use technical documentation in the overall technical process.
Research information to develop new ideas and concepts for the design of a specific production. Read scripts and consult directors and other production staff members, in order to develop design concepts and plan productions.
Operate sound system and audio devices during rehearsals or in a live situation.
Share and develop design ideas with the artistic team. Conceptualise new ideas independently and with others. Present your idea, gain feedback and take it into account. Make sure the design fits with the work of other designers.
Sound designer - Which skills are useful but not essential?
File and document a production in all its phases right after the performance period so that it can be reproduced and all relevant information remains accessible.
Legislation, on a national or international level, that governs labour conditions in various fields between labour parties such as the government, employees, employers, and trade unions.
Make the necessary preparations to record music or other sounds on several tracks.
Lead, supervise and motivate a group of people, in order to meet the expected results within a given timeline and with the foreseen resources in mind.
Prepare and distribute documentation to ensure all people involved in the production receive relevant and up-to-date information.
Monitor mixing in a live audio situation, under own responsibility.
Take the necessary precautions while providing temporary power distribution independently. Measure and power up an installation.
Adjust plans to other locations with regards to the artistic concept.
Prepare and run a technical sound check before rehearsals or live shows. Check instrument setup and ensure correct functioning of the audio equipment. Anticipate possible technical problems during a live show.
Make sure that a given budget remains up to date using most recent and most accurate information. Anticipate possible variations and ensure that the set budgetary goals can be reached within the given context.
Make use of protection equipment according to training, instruction and manuals. Inspect the equipment and use it consistently.
Test the sound equipment of a venue to ensure smooth operation during the performance. Cooperate with performers to make sure the venue equipment is adjusted for the requirements of the performance.
Set up, test and operate a complex audio system, based on a given sound concept. This could be a permanent as well as a temporary installation.
Cooperate with the artistic team in order to facilitate the transition from the creative vision and its artistic concepts to a technical design.
Define and make a list of the required resources and equipment based on the technical needs of the production.
Coordinate human, material and capital resources within artistic productions, based on the given documentation e.g. scripts.
File and organise personal administration documents comprehensively.
Apply the safety rules according to training and instruction and based on a solid understanding of the prevention measures and risks to your own personal health and safety.
Record a sound or musical performance in a studio or live environment. Use the appropriate equipment and your professional judgment to capture the sounds with optimal fidelity.
Documenting your own work practice for different purposes like assessment, time management, job application etc.
Read the musical score during rehearsal and live performance.
Set up an analogue sound reinforcement system in a live situation.
Legislation describing the protection of the rights of original authors over their work, and how others can use it.
Set up a basic stereo audio recording system.
Take necessary precautions and follow a set of measures that assess, prevent and tackle risks when working at a high distance from the ground. Prevent endangering people working under these structures and avoid falls from ladders, mobile scaffolding, fixed working bridges, single person lifts etc. since they may cause fatalities or major injuries.
Tune up a wireless audio system in a live situation.