Job Information
Vanderbilt University Live Audio Supervisor, Blair School of Music in Nashville, Tennessee
The Live Audio Supervisor is an integral member of the Production Services team at Blair School of Music at Vanderbilt University and is responsible for the live audio mix of recitals, concerts and events in an academic setting and classical theater environment. This position demonstrates customer service attributes and provides end-to-end A/V support for audio mixes at live and recorded productions. The Live Audio Supervisor supports educators and students in achieving learning goals within the scope of multiple performance halls and other related venues and plays a critical role in the success of all events, i.e., curricular, non-curricular, guest artists, and external and internal rentals. This position works collaboratively in a production team and assists in the safe operation and maintenance of venue sound, lighting, rigging, video projection and related equipment and systems used on a working stage for musical events. The Live Audio Supervisor is expected to perform with a high level of autonomy in a fast-paced environment. This position requires a demonstrated comfort level working with leading industry professionals and complex technical equipment and systems.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Live Audio Mix Supervision
Oversees and executes live audio mixing for 450+ productions annually.
Ensures technical excellence in all aspects of live productions and archival recordings.
Sets the standard for live audio setup and mixing best practices and processes.
Troubleshoots audio system issues and provides solutions.
Collaborates with faculty and students on creative aspects of audio mixing such as mic selection and placement.
Maintains audio equipment and inventory, and make recommendations for replacing technical gear as needed.
Maintains an organized and concise file management system within the Blair School archive, Yamaha Rivage, Yamaha QL1, Pro Tools and MacOS systems.
Assists and consults in recording audio via Dante controller, Dante virtual sound card and other Dante enabled devices.
Regularly updates the Director of Technical Operations on technical system status and equipment that requires servicing.
Trains part-time technicians on venue specific audio systems.
Provides availability to work events as needed that occur Monday through Sunday, during the day and evening.
Works closely with students, faculty and staff as well as external clients: educating all on best practices and requirements to produce the highest quality live audio mix and broadcasts, and foster an environment of learning in our higher education setting.
External Vendor Relationships
- Develops and manages relationships with leading technical vendors in the live audio space to establish preferred pricing on equipment and access to cutting edge technology.
Budgetary Responsibility
Advises on fiscal budget planning as it pertains to audio mixing equipment, system workflows and general technology used in Blair’s performance venues.
Obtains quotes and procures equipment as needed, in alignment with approved budget and in compliance with University policies and procedures.
Recommends part-time and/or contracted staffing needed for successful events, staying within budget, and advises on budget planning for staffing needs.
Additional Production Support
Cross-trains in all other Technical Operations areas (live sound, lighting, general stage).
Assists with set changes during theatrical/musical performances throughout the year.
Assists with set and prop construction using power tools, table saws, screw guns, etc.
Provides general stage support including but not limited to working with audio consoles, lighting fixtures, set pieces, orchestra shell to theater changes, orchestra pit and risers, perform set changes (which includes moving equipment and set furniture), and operation of counter-weight fly system.
Regularly lifts up to 50 pounds.
Performs general maintenance and cleaning of stage equipment.
Other duties as assigned.
Supervisory Relationships
This position reports functionally to the Director of Technical Operations, and administratively to the Executive Director, Production Services. The Live Audio Supervisor is responsible for managing part-time and/or contracted support technicians such as camera operators, graphics technicians, and audio/video engineers to assist with large productions throughout the year. This position recommends the number of staff and hours are needed for a successful event, and schedules, trains, and supervises that staff. This position develops and maintains a network of external support staff to call upon when needed for events.
Qualifications
A high school diploma or GED is necessary.
At least five years of experience in live audio mixing at live performance venues is necessary.
Experience mixing classical music instrumentation and performances is preferred.
Experience working in a theater environment is preferred.
Musical knowledge sufficient to work with high level classical artists to produce top caliber audio mixes is preferred.
Knowledge of current software including Dante Controller, Dante Virtual Soundcard, Shure Wireless Workbench, Qlab and Powerpoint/Keynote is preferred.
Knowledge of DAW’s including ProTools and Logic is preferred.
Strong work history with performing both Front of House and monitor mixing, and developing current mic placement techniques is necessary.
Deep knowledge of all facets of audio mixing including system signal flow, interfaces and software is necessary.
Proficiency with live audio techniques and large format consoles such as the Yamaha Rivage and Yamaha QL1 is necessary.
Hands on operation experience with audio recording and archiving is preferred.
Familiarity with audio file management and distribution is necessary.
Dante Certification is preferred.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community is necessary.
Embracing a customer service attitude is necessary.
Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing is necessary.
Ability to make administrative/procedural decisions and judgments is necessary.
Ability to perform complex tasks and prioritize multiple projects is necessary.
Ability to provide technical advice and information to staff in area of expertise is necessary.
Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
At Vanderbilt University, we are intentional about and assume accountability for fostering advancement and respect for equity, diversity, and inclusion for all students, faculty, and staff. Our commitment to diversity makes us who we are. We have created a community that celebrates differences and lets individuality thrive. As part of this commitment, we actively value diversity in our workplace and learning environments as we seek to take advantage of the rich backgrounds and abilities of everyone. The diverse voices of Vanderbilt represent an invaluable resource for the University in its efforts to fulfill its mission and strive to be an example of excellence in higher education.
Vanderbilt University is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Please note, all candidates selected for an offer of employment are subject to pre-employment background checks, which may include but are not limited to, based on the role for which they have been selected: criminal history, education verification, social media review, motor vehicle records, credit history, and professional license verification.
Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion At Vanderbilt University, we are intentional about and assume accountability for fostering advancement and respect for equity, diversity, and inclusion for all students, faculty, and staff. Our commitment to diversity makes us who we are. We have created a community that celebrates differences and lets individuality thrive. As part of this commitment, we actively value diversity in our workplace and learning environments as we seek to take advantage of the rich backgrounds and abilities of everyone. The diverse voices of Vanderbilt represent an invaluable resource for the University in its efforts to fulfill its mission and strive to be an example of excellence in higher education. Vanderbilt University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, people with disabilities, and protected veterans are encouraged to apply.