Picture yourself working with a diverse community of artists, helping to bring their sound to life. Learn the art of the recording process, studio equipment, technical and business skills. We believe that an advanced education of this importance needs to happen hands-on, in a real working studio, with small class sizes. Your training takes place in one of Seattle’s premiere recording studios, Orbit Audio. Our Senior Audio Engineering Instructor is SRA founder and platinum record award recipient Joe Reineke, who has engineered and produced hundreds of albums and tracks for artists worldwide. You’ll finish the course with several days of studio time to independently engineer a musical project of your choice from start to finish.
Audio Engineering
Music Production
Analog and Digital Recording and Mixing
Mastering
Pro Tools Software User Certification
SSL Console Training and Functionality
Advanced Ear Training
Microphone Techniques
Live Sound
MIDI Sequencing and Loop-Based Production
Effects Techniques and Plug-in Automation
Acoustic Sound Design
Studio Training
Business and Industry Skills
and much more
As a SRA student, you’ll receive a Professional Tool Kit of complete hardware and software equipment for recording, mixing and mastering at no extra cost to tuition – and its yours to keep. You’ll learn and grow with these tools throughout our program, gaining first-hand project experience and graduate with your own working studio already in progress.
MacBook Pro Laptop
AVID Pro Tools 12 Software W/ iLok
Focusrite Scarlett Solo Interface
USB Midi Controller Keyboard
HD Pro Headphones
Shure SM57 or SM58 Microphone
Mic Stand and Clip
XLR Cable
Soldering Kit
Digital Multi-meter Voltage and Cable Tester
All Textbooks and Course Materials
SRA Hoodie and Coffee Mug
SRA Audio Engineering Course Certificate and Diploma
AVID Pro Tools User Certification
2 Year Grammy U Membership
Industry Partner Gear Discount Card
Educational Discounts on Top Music Production Software
Class Schedule: SRA’s Audio Engineering Program is an academic year (3, 13 week quarters + some additional weeks of breaks) with students attending class one-full-day each week. Classes run 9:30am to 5pm with elective labs from 5 to 6pm, where students are encouraged to stay, gain additional project time, tutoring and mentorship. Students finish the course with a final project that includes four days of studio time with a band of their choice. Students can anticipate about 6-10 hours independent project work and home study offsite each week.
Upcoming Enrollments: We typically offer a new Audio Engineering course every spring and fall. Our maximum class size is 8 students.
-Spring 2019: Our next spring course held weekly on Friday’s (all day), beginning March 15th. Applications are due by Sunday, February 17th.
-Fall 2019: Our next fall course will be held weekly on Saturday’s (all day), beginning September 7th. Applications are due by Sunday, August 11th.
Interested in applying? Please see the next section below for more details and to download an application kit. Early applications are always encouraged since space is limited.
Applications: SRA accepts applications on a “rolling” or first come basis, so classes may become full before application deadlines as our maximum class size is 8 students. The process entails an application form, a written essay, personal/professional references, a most recent transcript and a couple elective components such as including letters of recommendation and work samples if available. The final step is an interview/meeting with the school, which can take place in person or by phone depending on your location.
A $75 processing fee will be due at the time of submission and all applicants will be notified in writing if they have been accepted or not. Those accepted will be given the opportunity to confirm or decline enrollment.
Download an SRA Application. Spring 2019 applications are due by Sunday, February 17th and Fall 2019 applications are due by Sunday, August 11th.
Requirements: Previous experience or prerequisite training in audio is not a requirement, however, background in music, music theory and/or experience playing musical instruments are very helpful building blocks, and are both highly encouraged and ultimately preferred.
As an independent arts academy, we do not require academic testing to apply, however, we do consider a host of other factors including grades from a recent transcript. In addition to our courses being very advanced, fast paced and setting the bar for technical education, SRA students must maintain and graduate with a 3.2 or higher GPA in order to earn the course certificate, so we are seeking the brightest students who are driven and serious about learning. We also require a passion for music and creativity, a sincere desire to be of service in this industry, being a team player, responsibility, dedication, a great attitude and a readiness for success.
Students need to be at least 18 years of age and a high school graduate (or GED) to attend our programs. Students who will graduate and be of age by a program start date may apply in advance. Our courses are taught in English, so international applicants must be fluent.
We offer tours on select Wednesday evenings, this is a great time to see our unique campus, meet instructors and learn more about the programs. For a full listing of upcoming Tour Nights and Open Houses, please visit our Events and Campus Tours page.
Our aim is to inspire lasting, meaningful careers. We believe this process is as unique as each individual and should begin on day one. By electing to keep our class sizes small, we are able to get to know every student personally, understand their passions and goals so we can provide thoughtful support and guidance throughout our program and beyond. Our instructors bring years of professional experience working in audio and are able to offer the kind of support only seasoned professionals can. We are always happy to call on our extensive network in the northwest art, music and gaming communities to make an introduction or help connect graduates with meaningful opportunities in their field of choice.