I need some internship/career advice.

[pearldrum944]

I wasn't exactly sure where to place this thread, but this forum seems a little more relevant than the others. I am a recording industry: production/technology student (most of my main classes are in studios, labs, and listening environments) in TN. I was planning on doing 2 internships, one this summer and another in the Fall before I graduate. I've always wanted to be a studio engineer, there's nothing more that I love than sitting down at a console tracking, or mixing. I'm also kind of interested in live sound, but not as much as being in the studio. I had planned to hopefully intern at a smaller Nashville studio to get some hands-on experience, and then intern at a larger studio to get the connections and feel for the different environment. Because of an obscure family connection I have been put in contact with a pretty big name in live sound. I have a pretty good chance of getting an internship through his company either with him or on one of the other major tours they are running.

I am lost and not sure whether I should pursue this newly presented opportunity I have been given or stick to studio work. It seems that these are two very different ends of the industry that connections in live sound may not associate with a lot of studio engineers and vice-versa. Basically, do you think the 2 career paths are that separate? With how the industry is going, do you think there may be more money in live sound for someone new to the scene? What would you do if you were in my situation?

[The Byre]

Live sound is still alive and healthy. Also live recording is doing well at the top level. Most studios seem to be struggling.

Studio work may seem interesting from where you are now, but live remains interesting, especially if you are doing mobile recording.

[bwaudio]

Definitively take the live sound internship with the family friend!!!

There are huge parallels between live sound and recording, and since you already have a connection there, go for it. Then if you still want to get into recording, you'll have some good experience under your belt.

Any audio related experience is good to have.