My Journey as a Live Sound Engineer

The first time I heard the excitement of a live crowd from behind the soundboard, I knew I’d found my place. But getting there was anything but easy. In 2015, I graduated from Madison Media Institute in Wisconsin and began a journey that has taken me from humble beginnings to becoming a sought-after sound engineer in the Wisconsin and Illinois music scenes. My journey has been a roller coaster of emotions, filled with fear, joy, and profound realizations.

As I walked across the stage at my graduation, I felt a mixture of fear and excitement. I was about to embark on a career in the highly competitive music industry, and the uncertainty of what lay ahead was daunting. I feared failure, but my passion for music and determination to succeed propelled me forward.

After graduating, my first job was at a small music store in Wisconsin. It was a humble beginning, but I was grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the music world. However, it was at this job that I met the person who would alter the course of my career. He was the live sound engineer for shows at a local bar and venue and saw potential in me. I was thrilled when he asked if I would be interested in assisting with lights during shows. This decision marked the start of my journey into the world of live sound engineering.

The first time I stepped into that small bar and venue as a lighting assistant, I was filled with excitement and anxiety. At just 20 years old, I had been thrust into an industry that I had only dreamed of working in. The $50 per show he offered me was a modest sum, but the experience and knowledge I gained were invaluable.

A pivotal moment in my career occurred when this person unexpectedly left, leaving the bar owner needing a sound engineer.  I had no formal sound engineering training besides signal flow and audio installations, but I took this as an opportunity and ran with it. I stared at the empty sound booth, heart pounding. Could I really do this? But the chance was too rare to pass up. I took a deep breath and told myself: 'It’s now or never.' I threw myself into the role of running sound for various bands at this bar. The fear of not knowing enough or making mistakes was always present, but I was determined to succeed and learn on the job.

A country band noticed my work one evening and offered me a steady gig. This would mean leaving my secure weekend paycheck at the venue, and the fear of financial instability was daunting. However, I decided to take the risk, and it paid off. The joy of landing a consistent gig was accompanied by the realization that taking risks is essential for personal and professional growth.

As my reputation as a sound engineer grew, people began noticing my skills. In 2017, I invested significantly in my sound system, which solidified my commitment to this path. It was a moment of both excitement and apprehension as I took a leap of faith in myself and my abilities. I named my sound company "Veena Productions" because, while naming can be challenging, my unique name naturally fit the vision I had in mind. The name “Veena Productions” felt like a natural extension of who I was, representing my personality and vision.

Eight years of hard work, dedication, and networking have passed, and I have worked with too many bands to count. I find pride and enjoyment in the long-lasting relationships I build with my bands and musicians. I have also now been named a Rockford Music Industry Award nominee. The joy and pride I feel are beyond measure. Working with many artists has allowed me to form lasting relationships. I have realized that the connections and relationships I make in the music industry are among the most rewarding aspects of this journey.

Reflecting on my career as a sought-after sound engineer, I can see that my journey was paved with dedication, resilience, and a willingness to seize opportunities. It wasn't the conventional path but has shaped my career and identity. I've learned that fear can be a powerful motivator, and it's okay to embrace it as long as it doesn't hold you back. The joys of success and the satisfaction of pursuing my passion have made every challenge and risk worthwhile.

As I continue my quest to achieve my goals in the music industry, I eagerly await the possibilities. My experiences have shown me that the road to success is not always easy, but with perseverance and a willingness to take risks, it is possible to make your dreams a reality. I am grateful for the emotional journey that has brought me to this point, and I am excited to embark on the new adventures that lie ahead in the world of music and art.