HEAD OF AUDIO

The HEAD OF AUDIO is responsible for all music and sound effects, mechanical or recorded, and for all production or venue-related sound reinforcement. The HEAD OF AUDIO is also responsible for the program video and backstage audio. This may involve simply sourcing and recording the DIRECTOR’S cue list, or may involve creative research and input into the sound design process itself.

Under the unionized staffing structure, the existence of this job title is negotiated prior to the start of production. If there cannot be a case made for a separate Audio department, due to the simple requirements of the show, this position becomes the ASSISTANT HEAD ELECTRICIAN, and reports to the HEAD ELECTRICIAN.

In the absence of a SOUND DESIGNER, the HEAD OF AUDIO/ASSISTANT HEAD ELECTRICIAN is responsible for both artistic content of the sound design and the system design. They are also responsible for the program sound/video system set-up.

The responsibilities of the HEAD OF AUDIO, in addition to those of a HEAD OF  DEPARTMENT, may include, but not be limited to:

GENERAL

• Meets with the DIRECTOR to determine the content and treatment of sound and music in the production: recorded or live sound or music, pre-show, intermission and post-show music
• Performs any research which may be required
• Makes a list of all sound, music and effects required
• Obtains these items, records them and constructs a high-quality audio files – may be required to produce numerous rehearsal CD’s or audio files
• Edits and remixes these sounds as required
• Makes an inventory of all available sound equipment and checks the operational condition of same; reports any lost, broken, damaged or inoperable equipment immediately; logs equipment problems in the BOOTH RECORD
• Plans and drafts a sound plot, detailing the source, type, length and quality of each sound and mapping them against time
• Creates a cue sheet
• Produces and drafts a detailed plot showing the location, cabling, and connection for each piece of equipment in the show, including mixers, computer playback, equalizers, speakers and microphones; produces a patching diagram showing the state of the patch field connections.
• Installs, maintains, and strikes all sound and related equipment
• Plans the number and location of headset stations; ensures headsets are out and in working order prior to each level set, rehearsal and performance; returns headsets to storage after each use
• Plans the program sound/video system, if not done by the SOUND DESIGNER, and ensures the set up of same
• Operates all elements of the sound system, except as delegated to other members of the production staff
• Plots and tracks the movement of any wireless microphones used by performers
• Records all levels and other settings to each sound effect using clear, concise notation; documents the levels of amplifiers and other preset equipment. Copies the STAGE MANAGER with this information
• Ensures back-up copies of the master audio files exist, and documents the location of storage with the TECHNICAL DIRECTOR
• Attends rehearsal often to determine the blocking that will affect microphone or speaker placement
• Assigns crew members specific duties

ADMINISTRATION AND SCHEDULING

• Makes a detailed budget for the purchase, rental or borrowing of sound equipment needed for the production
• Contributes to the creation of a detailed WEEKLY and DAILY SCHEDULE, produced by the PRODUCTION MANAGER
• Attends all production meetings and organizes department meetings as required

This information is intended as a guideline only. It is not intended to replace the required reading or research in your area, or information gained in the classroom.

To be used in conjunction with the HEAD OF DEPARTMENT job description.

The demands of this position, and the hours worked, will vary with each production.

THE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THIS POSITION MAY BE ALTERED WITHOUT NOTICE BY THE RESIDENT STAFF AND FACULTY