A Practical Guide to Becoming a Mix Master Engineer Without a Formal Education
Many aspiring producers dream of quickly mastering the art of music production and mix mastering, skipping traditional education. However, the process is more complex and time-consuming than many realize. This article provides a practical guide for those who wish to learn mix mastering without going to college or university, focusing on time management, self-education, and available online resources.
Understanding the Journey Towards Mix Mastering
As a mix master engineer, the journey is lengthy and requires a significant investment of time. Even those with natural talents must navigate a vast array of small, intricate details that are crucial for success. My personal experience spans over 49 years, commencing with guitar and bass playing and recording, to the realities of work and family life.
My Personal Experience - A Long and Dedication Path
Beginning my journey at the age of 14, I began playing guitar and bass and participating in local gigs at 16. Over the years, I continued to explore music at home and with friends, recording on various mediums. With marriage and family, work commitments became more prominent, limiting my time to pursue music seriously. It wasn’t until my late 40s that I found myself completely unsatisfied with my mix work, motivating me to seek knowledge in mix mastering.
Learning Mix Mastering Through Self-Teaching
With the bravado of many who believe they can master everything overnight, I embarked on a journey to learn mix mastering. Reading books and watching online tutorials, I found trustworthy sources such as "Produce Like A Pro" and "Pro Audio Files" on YouTube. These resources, along with the vast online presence, have become my go-to teachers and provide courses tailored to various genres.
The Challenge and The 10,000 Hour Rule
While access to resources is essential, the challenge remains in dedicating the time to learn. Unfortunately, I could only manage 15 hours per weekend over the past three years. This amounts to about 2340 hours in total, with 4680 hours projected at retirement. The 10,000-hour rule, proposed by Malcolm Gladwell, suggests that mastering any skill requires a substantial amount of dedicated practice. Without full-time, expert-driven exposure, reaching this benchmark may take much longer.
Alternatives to Formal Education
While traditional education can provide a foundational understanding, hands-on experience in the field is invaluable. Most successful producers have spent decades honing their craft, continuously learning and improving. For those unwilling or unable to devote years to a full-time education, online courses and self-study remain the best options. However, it is crucial to understand that mastering mix mastering is a marathon, not a sprint.
Conclusion
Becoming a mix master engineer is a challenging pursuit that requires both time and dedication. While formal education can provide a structured approach, online resources and self-study can be effective alternatives. However, the journey is long and will involve trade-offs between work and family life. The key is to be patient and persistent, emulating the dedication of those who have come before you.