WELCOME TO THE BLACKBIRD ACADEMY a new standard of excellence in audio education Your passion for audio has led you to The Blackbird Academy – a school that sets a new standard of excellence in audio education. Throughout this catalog, you will view rich content that tells the Blackbird story and how our unique approach is unparalleled in the industry. Once you have gone through the material, we encourage you to call or email us with any questions and to reserve your seat in an upcoming class!
CONTENTS 4
INTRODUCTION
ADMISSIONS
Welcome to The Blackbird Academy .....................3 Foreword, Mutt Lange.............................................5 Message from John McBride, Founder ..................9 The Blackbird Academy Difference ......................10
Admission Requirements ......................................20 Start Dates .............................................................20 Program Cost.........................................................20 Payment Options...................................................20 Refund Policy.........................................................20 Placement Assistance............................................21 Student Housing....................................................21
FACILITIES Campus Information............................................. 12 Gear & Studios.................................................14-15 Studios...................................................................14 Microphone Locker ...............................................14 Recording Laboratory............................................14 Outboard Gear......................................................15 Amplifiers...............................................................15 Drums ....................................................................15
STAFF John McBride, Founder/President/ Institutional Director ..............................................16 Carma DiCianni, Director of Student Operations and Marketing....................................16 Blair Gallimore, Career Services Manager............16 Mark Rubel, Director of Education .......................18 Jeremy Cottrell, Studio Instructor .........................18 Kevin Boettger, Studio Instructor..........................18 Scott Brewer, Director of Live Sound .....................18 Rich Flora, Live Sound Instructor ..........................18 Marian Matthis, Digital Marketing Director ..........18
PROGRAMS Studio Engineering Program ...........................24-26 Live Engineering Program ...............................27-29
TESTIMONIALS What the Experts Say.......................................22-23 Keith Urban.......................................................22 Vance Powell.....................................................22 Patrick Carney...................................................22 Don Was ...........................................................23 Sheryl Crow.......................................................23 Tim McGraw .....................................................23 Marc Roberge...................................................23 What the Students Say..........................................30
CONTACT US
WEBSITE
Call: 615-385-2423 Fax: 615-251-8787 Email: info@theblackbirdacademy.com
www.theblackbirdacademy.com Apply online 24 hours per day at www.theblackbirdacademy.com/apply-online
[
FOREWORD
]
MUSIC FIRST
The music business is exactly that. Music first and then the business of star making, marketing and more. The music side comprises writing, arranging, recording and mixing of the songs. The Blackbird Academy gives its students a natural fusion of new recording technology and the old and eternal recording techniques that have been used over the last 50+ years. The Blackbird Academy can give any individual a great kickstart into learning about and understanding these disciplines. It can also provide a great foundation from which to springboard one’s natural talent. The Blackbird Academy will be a very exciting and life-changing experience for any aspiring artist, producer or engineer. If I was starting all over again, this is exactly where you would find me – a great place to learn and to keep one’s creativity intact. Blackbird Studio is the finest recording studio on Planet Earth. What better place could there be to learn? – Robert John "Mutt" Lange, producer, songwriter 5
WHAT MAKES THE BLACKBIRD ACADEMY DIFFERENT?
6
TOP INSTRUCTORS
BEST GEAR MORE HANDS ON
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[
INTRODUCTION
]
A MESSAGE FROM JOHN MCBRIDE
FOUNDER, THE BLACKBIRD ACADEMY A number of years ago I took three steps back and took a long, hard look at my life. The center of my life is God and family, as I am sure it is for a lot of people. After that, I am fortunate because I have been making a living in the music business for a number of years and frankly, any day I can make a living in the music business is a great day! So, here I am with an incredible wife (Martina McBride), an incredible studio (Blackbird Studio), and a long list of friends that work in all areas of the business. I have great friends at record labels, management companies, booking agencies, live production companies, studios and publishing companies. So, how do I do something with my life that can involve all of these factors and benefit the world? I have to say that the
older I get the more important mentoring has become for me. Teaching is an honorable and great occupation that is important to the future of our world. There is a bit of the teacher in my DNA as my dad taught for years and is now retired. This is where the idea of The Blackbird Academy originated. There are teachers I have had that made a huge difference in my life. I would love to have the same positive effect on as many students’ lives as possible. Thanks to a number of mentors that have shared their knowledge and experience with me, I have been able to work on many projects in the recording studio in a very short amount of time. Music by a variety of artists from Ke$ha to Dave Stewart to Martina has my stamp and my name on it – something of which I am very proud. I would like to provide
the same opportunity to any student that signs up for The Blackbird Academy to know that in a short amount of time they may be working on big music projects. We are passionate and driven in our goals to improve the music business and change the world, and we can do that by giving an incredible education to our students. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to make a difference. I believe students can figure out if this career is for them by taking this course. It will not take four years of your life, and you will not have huge debt to deal with upon graduation. If this is your chosen profession, let us get you on your way to making a great living right away! Thanks, and I look forward to hearing from you. – John McBride
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WHAT MAKES THE BLACKBIRD ACADEMY DIFFERENT? The current state of audio education often puts students at a disadvantage upon graduation by leaving them with below average skills, not enough hands-on experience, and an in-complete education. There is often a high level of debt, which can limit a graduate’s ability to build a successful career. The Blackbird Academy offers a new model in education. Our program gives students access to true working professionals and a hands-on experience using a world class collection of gear – all in a facility designed for one purpose: making excellent music. The Blackbird Academy is a mentorbased program where students are taught by a unique cast of professional instructors and awardwinning guest lecturers. Our campus is built on the foundation of Blackbird Studio, the Nashville home to a community of engineers, producers, musicians and 10
technical staff who over the years have taken the art of audio recording to new highs. The principles and beliefs that guide the Academy’s program are simple: Challenge and educate students by presenting them with real life scenarios an engineer would encounter on a regular basis. We believe training should take place in spaces that are not empty, cold classrooms but professionallydesigned studios and labs where engineers can hone their craft. Students graduate with a high degree of both practical and theoretical knowledge of the trade, which gives them the best opportunity to establish and build their careers. Our goal is to provide the greatest education, in the shortest amount of time for the least amount possible. Realize your potential by taking part in The Blackbird Academy experience!
5:1
STUDENT/STUDIO
RATIO ULTIMATE LEARNING
EXPERIENCE
CAMPUS INFORMATION The Blackbird Academy is located in Berry Hill, Tennessee, home to more than 40 recording studios and just minutes from downtown Nashville. Known worldwide as Music City – the capital of country music – Nashville has always been so much more. It’s an entertainment center and a music production hub for Rock, Gospel, Christian, Americana, Pop, Rap, R&B – all styles of music. The Blackbird Academy is part of Blackbird Studio, founded in 2002 and today one of the most outstanding recording destinations in the world. The rooms, consoles, microphones, outboard gear and lounges were chosen around a central concept: to provide the best audio production facili-
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ties for top musicians, producers and engineers. This passion for great audio quickly made Blackbird the studio of choice for artists ranging from Beck to Kenny Chesney, Sheryl Crow, Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, Kings of Leon, Kid Rock, The White Stripes and Keith Urban, just to name a few. The Blackbird Academy carries on this tradition by repurposing three of the nine studios solely for education. In addition, a purpose-built Recording Laboratory adds the perfect space for critical listening and teaching of key concepts, skills and techniques. The Recording Laboratory is a studio itself, with an API 1608 console, Pro Tools HD, outboard gear, and live video/audio from the other studios.
NINE
STUDIOS
1400
MICS 50 AMPS
70 GUITARS
GEAR & STUDIOS The Blackbird Academy’s microphones, consoles, outboard gear and recording spaces are second to none. Students are trained on the same equipment used by top producers, musicians and recording artists who have created countless award-winning records at Blackbird Studio. STUDIOS The Blackbird Academy’s Studio A features 11 different recording areas including a variable Tom Hidley-designed chamber with an adjustable ceiling to customize reverb time. The control room features a 72-input Neve 8078, a six card Pro Tools HD system, and ATC 300s as main monitors. In the racks are many processors from Blackbird’s famous outboard gear collection. The Blackbird Academy’s Studio B comes equipped with a 48-channel API Legacy Plus console with Flying Fader automation, a six card Pro Tools HD system and ATC 300s as main monitors. The studio’s small live chamber is also perfect for vocal or instrumental overdubs. In the racks are many coveted processors from Blackbird’s famous outboard gear collection. The Blackbird Academy’s Studio I is a fully digital stuido featuring a revolving range of gear from Blackbird’s impressive
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collection. Students have access to preamps, processors and reverbs from a large list of manufacturers giving instructors and students the ability to mix and match gear for each session.
experienced staff and award-winning guest lecturers. Access to the single best collection of microphones in the world is one of the things that makes The Blackbird Academy education so unique.
MICROPHONE LOCKER The Blackbird Academy’s microphone locker has more than 1,400 microphones on hand, including U47s, Telefunken 251s and Elektroakustic RFTs, AKG C12s, Neumann U67s, M50s, M49s, M269s, classic small diaphragm tube mics and many more. Students will experience ears on shootouts, best practices for setup, and tips on miking from instructors,
RECORDING LABORATORY The Blackbird Academy’s Recording Laboratory accommodates 30 students and uses three large video screens and high-definition cameras for an unparalleled learning experience. The lab is also a fully-equipped recording studio featuring high-quality audio playback, an API 1608 console, a Pro Tools HD system, and outboard gear from Blackbird’s extensive collection. Each student will be seated at a station equipped with a hybrid interface/console, a computer with video display and headphones for monitoring and critical listening. Each station will have Pro Tools and other software used for recording and mixing. The room is networked, meaning each student will be able to record the
same audio being fed to the instructor’s rig from the isolation booths and other locations in the complex.
OUTBOARD GEAR Outboard compressors, EQs, reverbs, effects processors and preamps are the tools that take any mix, overdub or tracking session to the next level. Blackbird’s collection is one of the best in the world, featuring processors from over 90 companies and some historical gear not often found under one roof. The selection includes coveted units both old and new from Telefunken, EMI, Fairchild, Shadow Hill, Helios, Decca, Pye, RCA, Chandler Limited, Tube-Tech, UREI, AMS, Inward Connections and much, much more. Students will have access to this fabulous collection in class and during sessions where instructors will guide them through A/B listening tests, best practices, advanced usage tips and more. This collection of outboard gear is another reason The Blackbird Academy education is like none other. AMPLIFIERS The production and learning environment at The Blackbird Academy goes well beyond studio recording, overdubbing
and mixing. All productions begin with musicians, and our instrument, amplifier and drum collections are unequaled. Students will be taught the importance of choosing and setting up a guitar and amplifier before the Record button is pushed; if the source is not right, no microphone, console or good intention will be able to fix it later. Blackbird’s amplifier collection includes more than 50 vintage and new units from Fender, Marshall, Gibson, Matchless, Vox, Ampeg, Watkins, Mesa Boogie, Dumble and many more.
DRUMS Blackbird’s drum collection provides a strong pulse with more than 30 vintage kits and 50 vintage snares. Top Nashville drum techs will take students through the techniques they use to make kits ready for a high-quality recording. Manufacturers include Gretsch, Craviotto, Camco, Slingerland, Dunnett, Ludwig, Leedy, Rogers, Sonor, WFL, Yamaha and more.
The studio’s microphone collection is the most extensive private collection in the world. 15
LEARN FROM THE INDUSTRY’S LEADERS The Blackbird Academy features a highly skilled, professional teaching staff including a cast of award-winning industry guest lecturers who regularly visit the campus. JOHN MCBRIDE FOUNDER/PRESIDENT/INSTITUTIONAL DIRECTOR
John McBride has had a 30+ year career in live sound, tour management, and studio recording. He started a live sound company called MD Systems which was purchased by Clair Global in 1997, and John remains part of the Clair Global management team. He and his wife Martina, a multi-platinum selling music artist, built Blackbird Studio into one of the greatest recording studios on the planet. His passion for audio and the
will to mentor are paramount in his life. John and Martina’s love of music has resulted in The Blackbird Academy’s launch in 2013.
CARMA DICIANNI DIRECTOR OF STUDENT OPERATIONS AND MARKETING
Carma DiCianni is responsible for strategically building, executing, and maintaining our student/alumni programs and corporate partnerships; oversees the creation/implementation of communication and marketing materials for the
school; and is financially responsible for the academy. Carma has been in the education and music industries for over 20 years working with recording studios, tour management, and as a professional event/concert photographer. Carma has management experience with multiple artists and bands including Bon Jovi, Stone Temple Pilots, Ted Nugent, Alice Cooper, Marty Stuart, Travis Tritt, and more. Carma has degrees in Education, Audio Engineering and Entertainment Business.
BLAIR GALLIMORE CAREER SERVICES AND ACCOUNT MANAGER
Blair Gallimore is the Career Services & Account Manager for The Blackbird Academy, as well as the Accounts Receivables/Payables Manager for Blackbird Studio. Blair graduated from Belmont University in 2009 with a degree in Music Business. During her time at Belmont, she interned at Blackbird Studio, and ultimately was hired as the 16
FORTY
ELITE STUDENTS 24 +WEEKS 700 HOURS
ONE
AMAZING CAREER
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Receptionist / Client Services / Admin. Assistant. She moved to Accounts Receivables/Payables in Spring 2017. Blair is from Greenville, NC.
MARK RUBEL DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION
Mark has taught audio, music technology, music business and the history of rock to thousands of students since 1985. He has taught at various colleges/universities and has served as the Audio and Recording Director at Eastern Illinois University’s $70 million Doudna Arts Center. Since 1980, Mark has recorded extensively both at his Pogo Studio in Champaign, IL and elsewhere. His client list includes Hum, Alison Krauss, Rascal Flatts, Fall Out Boy, Ludacris, and more.
SCOTT BREWER DIRECTOR OF LIVE SOUND
Scott is a North Carolina native who moved to Nashville in 2017 to teach at Blackbird. He has been a musician for more than twenty years and started his career playing in bands before moving to the other side of the console. Scott studied at Guildford Tech where he double-majored in Recording Engineering and Concert Sound & Lighting. At the time, he was freelancing for production companies and the local IATSE. This work led him to a gig with 18
Imagine Design and Productions, where he was an audio engineer, systems designer, and installer.
JEREMY COTTREL INSTRUCTOR / STUDIO ENGINEER
Jeremy Cottrell has worked for Blackbird Studio since its opening in 2002 and has been an instructor for The Blackbird Academy since its start in 2013. His engineering credits include Sheryl Crow, The Red Hot Chili Peppers, Martina McBride, Keith Urban, Faith Hill, Tim McGraw, Alison Krauss, Big & Rich and Jars Of Clay. Jeremy is originally from Oklahoma.
KEVIN BOETTGER INSTRUCTOR / STUDIO ENGINEER
Kevin Boettger is an audio engineer with over ten years of professional studio experience. After working at Trod Nossel studios and studying Audio Engineering at the University of New Haven, Kevin decided to move to Nashville to pursue an audio engineering career at Blackbird Studio. Kevin has had the opportunity to work with artists such as Kacey Musgraves, Tim McGraw, Kenny Chesney, Paramore, Capital Cities, Dan + Shay, Willie Nelson, and more. In 2018, Kevin worked on three projects that won Grammy Awards: Willie Nelson’s ‘My Way,’ Dan + Shay ‘Tequila,’ and The Travelin’ McCoury’s self-titled album.
RICH FLORA LIVE SOUND INSTRUCTOR
Rich Flora came to The Blackbird Academy from Clair Global where he worked both in IT and as an audio engineer for more than 27 years. Before joining Clair, Rich had positions in all aspects of audio and electronics. Besides sound engineering, Rich has worked as a lighting director, a radio broadcast engineer, an A/V Tech for a top 50 law firm. He has engineered for many bands but spent most of his time on the road with Little Texas and Collin Ray.
MARIAN MATTHIS DIGITAL MARKETING DIRECTOR
Marian manages the social media channels and websites for The Blackbird Academy and Blackbird Studio. Before joining Blackbird, Marian was a freelance marketing/graphic design pro. That is where she found a love for music marketing – creating pieces for artists like George Strait, Trisha Yearwood, Dolly Parton, Lee Ann Womack, and many others. Before that, Marian was the Marketing Director and Managing Editor/Design at The Tennessean newspaper in Nashville. She holds an MBA from Vanderbilt.
WE CONCENTRATE ON DOING, INSTEAD OF TALKING ABOUT IT.
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GETTING TO THE BLACKBIRD ACADEMY ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS Students applying for admission to The Blackbird Academy must have a minimum of a high school diploma or GED-equivalent. A prospective student must submit an official copy of their high school transcripts or GED upon completion of their admission application. Non-accredited schools or those not approved by the Board of Education may not be acceptable; please check with your admissions representative before paying/attending any of these courses. Two letters of recommendation (from an employer, instructor or audio professional) are required, as well as two essays of 500 words each. An interview will be conducted either in person or by phone upon receipt of the admission application. The Blackbird Academy reserves the right to request corroborating information in addition to the application prior to the final determination of acceptance and/or admission.
START DATES The Blackbird Academy’s programs have four starts in a calendar year, each running six months in length. 20
2021-2022 Start Dates January 4, 2021 April 5, 2021 July 6, 2021 September 27, 2021
January 10, 2022 April 11, 2022 July 11, 2022 October 3, 2022
Holidays Students will have the following holidays for the next two calendar years: Spring Break: Summer Break: Thanksgiving: Winter Break: Spring Break: Summer Break: Thanksgiving: Winter Break:
Mar 27 – Apr 4, 2021 Jun 26 – Jul 5, 2021 Nov 25 – 28, 2021 Dec 18, 2021 – Jan 9, 2022 Apr 2 – 10, 2022 Jul 5 – 10, 2022 Nov 24 – 27, 2022 Dec 23, 2022– Jan 8, 2023
PROGRAM COST The cost of attendance is composed of charges billed directly to you by The Blackbird Academy as well as indirect costs that go along with attending school. The current tuition, including iPad with all educational materials included is: Studio Engineering Program: $23,100 Live Sound Engineering Program: $23,100
PAYMENT OPTIONS Please contact the Admissions Dept.
regarding payment options and payment of tuition. Cash payments and/or a payment plan may be used to fund your education. This option maybe used in combination with other financial assistance. VA Benefits Eligible.
REFUND POLICY Refunds Due to Cancellation: Students who are rejected by the college or cancel the application within three (3) business day’s of receipt of the application fee are entitled to a 100% refund of any fees/tuition paid. Students who have not visited The Blackbird Academy prior to sending in application will have three (3) business days following their visit to cancel and receive a 100% refund. Under any other circumstances, the $75 application fee is retained by The Blackbird Academy. If a student is terminated, withdraws or otherwise fails to complete the program(s) and has received any form of financial assistance while enrolled, the financial institution will determine the refunds (if applicable) that will be given.The date from which the refund is calculated is the last date that a student attended a class. Refunds will be made within thirty (30) days of the date The Blackbird Academy
determines that the student has withdrawn. The original source that the monies were received dictates the entity of how the monies will also be refunded. In the event of a students prolonged illness, accident, death in the family or other circumstances that make completion of the program(s) impossible or impractical, the school will attempt to make a fair and reasonable settlement.
REFUNDS DUE TO WITHDRAWAL WEEK
GET IN TOUCH Call: Fax: Email:
615-385-2423 615-251-8787 info@theblackbirdacademy.com Visit our website at: www.theblackbirdacademy.com
% OF REFUND (less application fee)
Before Class Begins Weeks 1 - 3 Weeks 4 - 6 Weeks 7 - 12 Weeks 13 - 24
start on their careers. While students may hold jobs to help support themselves while they’re in the program, the focus once they leave should be on finding a promising job in the audio industry. The Career Services Manager can help students make contact at many studios, live sound companies, manufacturers and more, where students may interview once they leave the program. To qualify, you must have met the course’s graduation prerequisites, and honored all predetermined financial arrangements.
100% 75% 50% 25% 0%
SOCIAL e
Facebook: facebook.com/TheBlackbirdAcademy Twitter:
@BBArocks
Instagram: The Blackbird Academy
STUDENT HOUSING PLACEMENT ASSISTANCE The Blackbird Academy is a microcosm of the audio recording industry, and networking with other students, teaching staff, and guest lecturers begins immediately upon enrolling in the Academy. During a student’s stay at the Academy, students will be exposed to many expert panels, mentoring sessions both live and online, remote interviews, and other resources to help students get a head
The Blackbird Academy has arranged different lease options with several local apartment complexes for incoming students. Admissions Representatives can also assist students with a roommate list if you would like a roommate to help lower expenses. The resource links below can also help guide you through the many housing choices in the Nashville area. Housing Resources: https://www.apartments.com/nashville-tn/ https://www.apartmentfinder.com/Tennessee/Nashville-Apartments https://www.apartmentguide.com/apartments/Tennessee/ https://www.forrent.com/find/TN/metro-Nashville/Nashville
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WHAT THE EXPERTS SAY ABOUT THE BLACKBIRD ACADEMY
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KEITH URBAN
VANCE POWELL
PATRICK CARNEY
Recording Artist, Songwriter, Musician
Grammy-Winning Recording Engineer
Drummer, The Black Keys
“
IF YOU ARE THINKING ABOUT GOING ANYWHERE FOR AN AUDIO SCHOOL, THIS IS THE PLACE...IT’S THE EPICENTER OF RECORDING IN NASHVILLE AND PEOPLE FROM OUTSIDE COUNTRY MUSIC ARE ALL COMING HERE TO RECORD AS WELL.
”
“
IF YOU ARE GOING TO GET AN EDUCATION IN THIS BUSINESS, THIS IS THE BEST SET OF ROOMS TO BE DOING IT IN.
”
“
IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN LEARNING HOW TO RECORD OR MIX LIVE SOUND ... FROM SOME OF THE BEST PEOPLE IN THE GAME, I WOULD RECOMMEND GOING TO THE BLACKBIRD ACADEMY.
”
DON WAS
SHERYL CROW
TIM MCGRAW
MARC ROBERGE
Grammy-Winning Producer, Musician
Recording Artist, Songwriter, Musician
Recording Artist, Songwriter, Actor
Recording Artist, Musician, O.A.R.
“
TO BE ABLE TO LEARN IN THAT ENVIRONMENT…MAN, YOU ARE GONNA HAVE THE BEST SHOT OF AN EDUCATION IN RECORDING THAT YOU’RE GONNA HAVE ANYWHERE.
”
“
[STUDENTS] ARE GOING TO WALK IN HERE, BE EXCITED ABOUT LEARNING, AND REALLY LEARN WHAT IT TAKES TO MAKE A RECORD…IF I HAD SIX MONTHS TO DEDICATE TO COMING TO THE BLACKBIRD ACADEMY, I WOULD SO BE HERE.
“
“
IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A PLACE TO LEARN ALL YOU CAN ABOUT AUDIO, THEN THE BLACKBIRD ACADEMY IS THE PLACE YOU NEED TO BE.
COMING TO THE BLACKBIRD ACADEMY WOULD BE THE BEST DECISION YOU EVER MADE, IF YOU WANT TO BE IN THE REAL MUSIC BUSINESS.
”
”
”
To see the complete interviews, visit www.theblackbirdacademy.com/testimonials
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STUDIO ENGINEERING PROGRAM Length of Program: Current Tuition:
Six Months $23,100
PROGRAMS
WEEK 1
Intro, Listening, Recording, Careers & Professionalism – 30 Hours Introduction to staff and instructors, Blackbird Studio tour and technical orientation. Ears On listening challenge, history of music technology. Recording session: tracking, overdub session, editing session and mixing homework. Care and handling of gear. WEEK 2
Signal Flow, Mixing Consoles, Careers & Professionalism – 30 Hours Careers overview, mixing console overview and patching system, signal flow and troubleshooting. Comprehensive study of the API 1608 console. Ears On and Hot Seat challenges. Recording session: tracking, overdub session, editing session and mixing homework. Session/studio etiquette and protocol. WEEK 3
Studio Orientation – 25 Hours Studio Orientation I and II - Familiarization with rooms, monitors, patch bay, console and outboard gear. Microphone reports: Daily, handson work with a wide range of tube, solid state, dynamic, and condenser microphones. Hands on: Session Pre-Production, signal flow, working
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with consoles, OB gear, and summing systems. WEEK 4
Tracking The Band In Studio – 25 Hours Setup, testing gear and tracking a band in the studio I and II. Overdub and editing I and II. Rough mixes, cleanup and archiving. Compressor & EQ reports: Daily, hands-on work with a wide range of tube, and solid state processors. WEEK 5
Microphones – 30 Hours Microphone types, design, uses and placement for both studio and live recording environments. Compare and contrast microphones, both classic and modern, and their placement. Microphone factory tour, classroom workshop from microphone company representative(s) and microphone rebuilder. Demos and workshop, mic shootouts, testing and mic recognition. Tour concert hall and live field recording.
bay, console and outboard gear. Hands on: Session Pre-Production, consultation with band, setup, testing, recording, overdub, mixing, Recording, mixing, mastering, and content delivery. WEEK 8
Tracking The Band In Studio – 25 Hours Familiarization with new room, monitors, patch bay, console and outboard gear. Hands on: Session Pre-Production, consultation with band, setup, testing, recording, overdub, mixing, Recording, mixing, mastering, and content delivery. WEEK 9
Tracking The Band In Studio – 25 Hours Familiarization with new room, monitors, patch bay, console and outboard gear. Hands on: Session Pre-Production, consultation with band, setup, testing, recording, overdub, mixing, Recording, mixing, mastering, and content delivery.
WEEK 6
WEEK 10
Musical Instruments and Mic Techniques – 30 Hours Learn from specialists about tuning, setup and all aspects of different instruments including drums, acoustic, electric and bass guitars, vocals and more. Hands on microphone and recording techniques, mic- shootouts. Continuing Pro Tools and Signal Flow education, ear training and music education, testing drills.
Acoustics and Signal Processing – 30 Hours In-depth investigation of musical acoustics. Signal processing of all types: EQ, compression, gating, limiting, pitch-based effects, delays and more. Hands-on projects. Complete breakdown of a mix and signal processing techniques. Continued Pro Tools, signal flow, ear training, critical listening, etc. Ethics of music technology.
WEEK 7
Tracking The Band In Studio – 25 Hours Familiarization with new room, monitors, patch
WEEK 11
Tracking The Band In Studio – 25 Hours Setup, testing gear and tracking a band in the studio I and II. Overdub and editing I and II. Rough mixes, cleanup and archiving.
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WEEK 12
Hearing, Audio Illusions/Superstitions, Studio & Monitor Design – 30 Hours Hearing and its preservation, auditory superstitions and illusions. Binaural demonstration. Studio design, acoustics and soundproofing. Monitor system design and listening. Ear training, testing, critical listening.
PROGRAMS
WEEK 13
Guest In Studio – 25 Hours Celebrity guest engineer mentors students on tracking, overdubs, mixing, best practices. End of week panel in live room with playback and critique of mixes. WEEK 14
Tracking and Mixing In Studio – 25 Hours Recording a live band in studio, overdubs, edits, mixing and mastering projects from other students. End of week listening session for critiquing mixes. WEEK 15
Musical Business & Careers – 30 Hours (+10 Hours Final Project Studio Time) Music business overview, business structures, marketing, career planning, job search, avoidance of occupational hazards, studio management, entrepreneurship, intellectual property. Critical listening, visit various music businesses (ASCAP, record companies, etc). WEEK 16
Modern Music Production, Electronic Musical Instruments, Film Project, Sound for Picture, Time Code – 30 Hours (+10 Hours Final Project Studio Time)
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Investigation and practice of various methods of electronic recording, musique concrete, video game audio, hands-on film scoring project. Visit audio post-production facility. Critical listening and testing.
Live, Clair Global and other facilities, introduction to aspects of live sound. Continued Pro Tools and Signal Flow, mixing exercises, audio archive visit, hands-on projects, critical listening. Optional day-long field trip to historic facilities.
WEEK 17
WEEK 21
Signal Processing In The Studio – 25 Hours Signal processing in the studio. Theory and use of EQ, Dynamics, Time based and hybrid processors. Compare and contrast plugins with Blackbird’s collection across various workflows, instruments, and vocals.
Week 21 – Fundamentals of Music & Electronics for Engineers, Audio Restoration, Advanced Production & Recording – 30 Hours (+5 Hours Final Project Studio Time) Fundamentals of electronics and repair, audio restoration, salvage and noise reduction. Music fundamentals for engineers: theory, arranging, creativity, songwriting, song structure, charts, the Nashville Number System. Continued historical investigation, optional day-long field trip to historic facilities.
WEEK 18
Guest In Studio – 25 Hours Celebrity guest engineer mentors students on tracking, overdubs, mixing, and best practices. End of week panel in live room with playback and critique of mixes. WEEK 19
Mastering, Manufacturing, Advanced Mixing and Signal Processing, “Theme Week” – 30 Hours (+5 Hours Final Project Studio Time) Mastering, manufacturing and distribution. Hands-on mastering project. Continuing handson recording projects with feedback from mentors. Drum editing, vocal tuning. In-depth investigation into a recording style, genre, or company. Optional day-long field trip to historic facilities.
WEEK 22
Guest In Studio – 25 Hours Celebrity guest engineer mentors students on tracking, overdubs, mixing, and best practices. End of week panel in live room with playback and critique of mixes. WEEK 23
Capstone – 30 Hours (+5 Hours Final Project Studio Time) Wrap up, facility visits, multiple guest mentor appearances.
WEEK 20
WEEK 24
History of Recording, Live Sound, Advanced Mixing & Signal Flow Processing – 30 Hours (+5 Hours Final Project Studio Time) Comprehensive history of recording technology and the recording industry. Tour of Blackbird
Tracking and Mixing In Studio – 25 Hours Recording a live band in studio, overdubs, edits, mixing and mastering projects from other students. End of week listening session for critiquing mixes.
LIVE ENGINEERING PROGRAM Length of Program: Current Tuition:
Six Months $23,100
WEEK 1
Intro to Blackbird, Course Outline, Mixing Consoles, Analog Signal Flow, Flow Chart & Schematic Symbol IdentiďŹ cation - 30 Hours Orientation and Overview (Blackbird philosophy, Welcome and Keynote Speech), Intro: Instructors, Staff and Students, Tour of Blackbird Facilities, Tour of Live Sound Classroom, Analog Consoles Signal Flow, Flow Chart Symbols Identification, The Channel Strip, Auxiliary Sends, The Master Section, Signal Routing, Subgrouping, Inserts, Analog Signal Flow Lab: Applying Analog Console Live Signal Routing and Signal Flow Charts. WEEK 2
Live Stage Set-Up and Use - 30 Hours Stage Monitor Mixes and Monitor Wedges, Stage Monitor Signal Flow, Monitor Equalization, Introduction to Crossovers and Graphic Equalizers, Introduction to Amplifiers, Introduction to Software Based Analyzer Programs, Microphone Polar Response/Frequency response and Off-Axis Coloration, Stagehand Lingo. WEEK 3
Analog Outboard Gear and Equalizers - 30 hours Filters, Shelving/Sweeping/Parametric
Equalizers, Amplitude Based Processors, Time Based Processors, Spectrum Based Processors, Side-Chaining, Connecting the Hardware to Analog Sources, Audio Examples and Hands On Exercises. WEEK 4
Construction and Operation of Loudspeaker Enclosures and Their Components - 30 hours Loudspeakers, Horns, Horn Loaded Enclosures, The Moving Coil Driver, Compression Drivers, Enclosure Types, Construction &
Design, Dispersion Patterns, Decibels, White & Pink Noise, Equal Loudness Contours, Phase & Polarity, Loudspeaker Placement. WEEK 5
Introduction to Digital Front Of House & Monitor Consoles, Introduction to In Ear Monitors - 30 hours Working with Digital Console Offline Editors, Reading Digital Console Schematics and Flow Diagrams, File Management, Soft-patching, Using inboard DSP Processors, Monitor & FOH Mixing Overview with Wedges and IEM’s,
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Interfacing Analog Audio Processors in the Digital World, Practical Application Lab. WEEK 6
PROGRAMS
Lab Mix Project, Basic Soldering Techniques, Microphone Theory, Microphone Techniques - 30 Hours Analog Mix Lab, Mixing Tips & Tricks, Basic Soldering Skills, Connectors, Cable Types, Soldering Lab, Microphone Splitters, Mass Connectors, Microphone Types, Identification and Techniques WEEK 7
Sound Theory & Audio Bench Testing - 30 Hours SPL Meters, Weighting Curves, Peak vs. RMS, Dynamic Range, Noise Floor, Bench Testing: Volts /Signal/THD, Audio DUT Applications: Measuring the Noise Floor/Signal to Noise/Console Clipping, Pass Band Frequencies, In Lab Demonstrations WEEK 8
Line Array Theory and Application, Line Array Calculators, System Concepts, Rigging Techniques - 30 Hours Line Array Theory, Popular Configurations and History, Line Array Principles, Inverse Square Law, Point Source Monitor, In Lab Demonstration: Critical Listening, Line Array Calculators, Rigging Hardware & Motors, Rigging Safety, In Hands On Lab: Establishing Hang Points and Flying the Line Array WEEK 9:
Wireless Microphones/ IEM’s/Instruments, RF Analyzers, Antenna Combiners, Antenna Types and Cables, Troubleshooting - 30 Hours
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RF Theory & Components, FCC Regulations, Wireless Microphones, RF Troubleshooting, RF System Considerations, RF Analyzers, Wireless Cabling & Connectors, IEM Manufacturers, In Lab Demonstration: Setting Up The RF System, Hands on Lab: Creating IEM Mixes using Virtual Tracks WEEK 10
Wireless Continued, Amplifiers, Speaker Impedance, Connectors, Crossovers - 30 Hours Wireless Manufacturer Class Presentation, The Crossover: Active/Passive, Popular Active Crossover Manufacturers, Bi-Amp, Tri-amp, Amplifier Load Impedance, Parallel & Series Speaker Loads, Power vs. Load, Hands on Workshop: Testing and Critical Listening Crossovers, Lab: Building an NL4 and EP4 WEEK 11
AC Power Distribution, Amplifiers and Network Programming - 30 Hours Guest lecture from Clair Global’s Rex Ray. Power and safety, transformers, testing, ground loops, troubleshooting and testing. Amplifier bridging, power outputs and requirements, loudspeaker sensitivity, the inverse square law. Hands-on workshop - programming and working with amplifier DSP software.
WEEK 13
Advanced Analog Signal Flow and Digital Consoles - 30 Hours VCAs, DCAs, mute groups, advanced schematic diagrams and symbols. Busing, matrixes, signal routing to and from the stage. Overview of Yamaha’s L59, CL and M7CL series consoles. Positioning of processors in the signal chain. WEEK 14
Maintenance Week: Bench Testing and Troubleshooting - 30 Hours System and network connections. Troubleshooting scenarios and best practices. Testing equipment for analog, power and digital workflows. Using SpectraFoo. Measuring noise floor of DUT, analog console, THD, system input/output console mic preamp at clipping. Measuring accuracy of pass band frequency. WEEK 15
Yamaha M7 Week - 30 Hours In-depth look at Yamaha’s M7 console. Study of recall, saving show files and scenes, console control functions, remote signal output, channel modules, using StageMix, integration of Waves SoundGrid, editing, monitoring, module functions.
WEEK 12
Preparing for Bands in the Venue - 30 Hours Virtual soundcheck, live mixing at front of house and monitors, digital recording workshop, various signal transfer options: MADI, Dante, CobraNet, AES/EBU, analog. Ringing out wedges, system setup, line check, sound check, dealing with backline, sub snake assignments, stage plots, input lists.
WEEK 16
Tour Production Week - 30 Hours Stage managers, tour managers, production managers, stage hands, band and artist management, guitar, keyboard, and drum techs, union hands, venue management, entertainment directors. Panel and Q&A with live concert professionals. Designing stage
plots, input lists. Lighting production guest lecture.
home theaters. 70-volt systems and paging systems. Sound systems in houses of worship, network and server installs.
WEEK 17
Soundcraft Si Series Week - 30 Hours In-depth look at Soundcraft’s Si console series including Performer, Expression, and Compact systems. Study of recall, saving show files and cue lists, console control functions, remote signal output, channel modules, console connectivity including D.O.G.S interaction, editing, monitoring, module functions.
WEEK 21:
WEEK 18
WEEK 22:
Acoustics Week - 30 Hours Venue acoustics, modeling of acoustic environments, Using EASE acoustic design software, transfer function of room acoustics, speaker placement modeling, venue acoustic problems, troubleshooting and solutions, absorber placement and panel types, professional practice from detailed, realistic modeling and simulation of venue acoustics and sound system performance.
Digico Week and System Design Projects- 30 Hours In-depth look at Digico series live sound consoles including 5D5, 5D7, 5D8 and 5D1. Study of recall, saving show files and scenes, console control functions, system setup and best practices. Designing systems on various budgets for small, medium and large venues, houses of worship, clubs and theaters.
System Design Theory - 30 Hours The math and physics of system design. Understanding impedance, resistance, AC current, volts, Ohms law, watts, amperes, load vs. power, the inverse square law. SPL calculations, temperature gradients, electrical loads and breakers.
WEEK 23 WEEK 19
Avid Venue Week - 30 Hours In-depth look at Avid Venue series live sound consoles including D-Show, Profile and 5C48. Study of recall, saving show files and scenes, console control functions, system setup and best practices, channel modules, using Pro Tools and plugins. Understanding the AVB protocol and AVNU. WEEK 20
Audio Video Installation Week - 30 Hours Video and audio interconnections for corporate boardrooms, theme restaurants, nightclubs and
The Business of Live Sound - 30 Hours Taxes, being your own boss, sole proprietorships, DBAs, LLCs and more. Live panels on professionalism. Available jobs in live sound. Resumes, business cards, touring etiquette, bus and tour security. WEEK 24
Program Recap, Career Potential, Commencement - 30 Hours Overview of topics covered, career options, avoidance of occupational hazards, meeting with Clair Global personnel. Commencement, Q&A with staff and instructors.
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WHAT THE STUDENTS SAY ABOUT THE BLACKBIRD ACADEMY
“
YOU CAN DEFINITELY TELL EVERYONE WORKING HERE HAS SUCH A STRONG PASSION FOR WHAT THEY DO.
” “
IT’S PRETTY INCREDIBLE TO REALIZE THAT THIS CAN BE HOW YOU MAKE A LIVING…I THOUGHT IT WOULD JUST BE A HOBBY.
”
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THIS HAS BEEN AN EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME.
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“
I’VE LEARNED MORE HERE IN 3 DAYS, THAN I HAVE PROBABLY LEARNED IN 5 YEARS ONLINE.
CHECK OUT OUR ALUMNI AT: theblackbirdacademy.c om/alumni
“Attitude is 99% of the gig.” – John McBride Founder/President/Institutional Director
a new standard of excellence in audio education
2806 Azalea Place Nashville, Tennessee 37204 615.385.2423 www.theblackbirdacademy.com