Each year, the ubiquitous Audio Engineering Society holds two thrilling conventions --- one in Europe, one in the US --- to which dozens of the world's top audio gear manufacturers are invited to demo their newest products. New York City played host in 2013, and thanks to the dates coinciding with ASU's fall break, 22 students of the MIS Recording and Production program were able to attend.
Since its establishment in 1948, the AES has developed into a robust international community, connecting recording engineers, musical artists, scientists, and students. Through annual conferences and conventions, as well as the various publications made available to its members, the AES is able to keep audio engineers informed and educated. Furthermore, it provides a relatively comprehensive view of the audio industry on a global scale. As college seniors anticipating our entrance into the job market, the opportunity to network with industry professionals and simultaneously be witness to one of the largest audio gear expositions in the world was truly remarkable.
The Jacob Javits Center floor was a glorious sight to behold, showcasing some of the most reputable brands in existence. Personal highlights include BAE's demo of the 500 series 1073D, API's unveiling of "The Box", and running into LCD Soundsystem's James Murphy at the Purple Audio booth. With hundreds of exhibitions to browse, the convention alone was enough to merit a field trip to New York, but the educational opportunities did not end there.
In addition to attending the four-day AES event, we had the privilege of touring a few of New York's premier recording and mastering facilities, including the Engine Room, the Cutting Room, Sterling Sound, and Avatar Studios. Avatar, which has housed recording sessions for such iconic artists as John Lennon, Tony Bennett, and Bruce Springsteen, held an invitation-only social for the Society of Professional Audio Recording Services (SPARS) organization which placed students and professionals face to face, allowing the possibility of a business relationship to spark.
The significance of such relevant and advantageous opportunities cannot be overstated; nor can the stress of facing a highly competitive job market in the midst of an economic downturn. Participation in these AES conventions demonstrates the HSoM's commitment to providing its students with the tools and resources necessary in achieving career success. Such trips help to give students a competitive advantage by offering a preliminary shot at forging relationships with desired employers. This advantage may be what it takes to earn a roster spot in the vying industry.
- Greg Herndon (BS in MIS Recording & Production 2014)
Recording and Production students
