What was your most interesting experience as a sound engineer?
In the realm of sound engineering, every project has its challenges, but some experiences stand out as particularly memorable. Over the years, I've had a plethora of interesting experiences, but two stand out: working as an audio engineer during the Yellowstone Park fires in 1988 and being a key player in securing a live event's success amid unexpected outages.
Experiencing the Fires in Yellowstone
From the age of 26, I was part of a sound crew that tackled the monumental task of recording audio for a video of the Yellowstone Park fires in 1988, one of the most significant wildfires in US history. My role as the audio engineer involved ensuring that the recordings captured the raw emotions and sounds of the fire as it raged through the park.
The challenges were immense; my duties included handling the microphones, carrying the video recorder, and keeping the cameraman safe. The fire was a constant force to be reckoned with, and it pushed me to the limits. Witnessing the fire up close and experiencing the roar of the flames, known as the "train," was a hauntingly memorable encounter.
There was a moment where we were within the path of an oncoming fire, and the adrenaline rush was both exhilarating and terrifying. Firebrands flying over a 90-foot-wide firebreak and starting new fires beyond highlighted the sheer intensity and difficulty of containing such massive wildfires. It was a stark and deadly reminder of the impact of forest fires, different from the gentle, mythical tales often associated with them in movies like Bambi.
Living in the aftermath, every day had a lingering smell of campfire, a constant reminder of the dangerous and impromptu nature of forest firefighting. This experience not only centered me and deepened my appreciation for a profession that requires vigilance and courage.
Live Event Adventures: From Power Outages to Smart Preparations
Perhaps the most thrilling experiences, however, come from live events. The dynamic and unpredictable nature of live performances offers endless opportunities for unexpected events that test the limits of one's preparation and adaptability.
One such instance was a live event on July 4th. As the audio engineer, I prepared the sound equipment ahead of time, but time constraints left me scrambling to review the setup and familiarize myself with the performers. During the performance, a sudden power outage plunged the venue into darkness, but the quick thinking and preparedness saved the day.
Armed with a small flashlight and a non-leaking, secondary flashlight powered by button cells, I managed to identify and fix the faulty extension cord. This quick resolution prevented a potential disaster and ensured the show's continuity. True to the spirit of a sound engineer, I relished the moment of triumph when the show resumed, secure in the knowledge that I had been the hero of the hour.
A similar situation occurred at another indoor event. With pre-LED flashlights burning out, a proto-LED ring light powered by button cells saved the night. In this instance, a seemingly insignificant device played a critical role, spared a potentially disastrous performance, and underscored the importance of thorough preparation.
Beyond these adrenaline-fueled moments, however, the most memorable part was the live event organized by a charity for the United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation. This event, which saw a micro/craft brewery show and live music at the Philadelphia Zoo, faced significant disruptions due to disorganization. Despite the initial chaos, the evening turned out to be a celebration of fun and community spirit.
As the night progressed, the typically orderly venue transformed into a lively gathering of music enthusiasts and beer connoisseurs. Just as the event was reaching its peak, security and staff attempted to impose a strict 11:00 PM curfew. However, rational dialogue prevailed. With the crowd's collective voice, we convinced the authorities to allow the show to continue. This small victory encapsulates the essence of live events—embracing unique moments and pushing boundaries to ensure that everyone enjoys an unforgettable experience.
Lessons Learned: Adapting to Chaos and Upholding Professional Responsibility
From Yellowstone to live events, these experiences have taught me valuable lessons about resilience and flexibility in the face of unexpected challenges. Professional preparedness, quick thinking, and clear communication can turn potential disasters into success stories. Above all, the true spirit of sound engineering lies in making events that resonate with the audience, even in the face of adversity.
The stories of my most interesting experiences as a sound engineer remind us that the journey is as important as the destination, and the reward is found in the moments that test us the most. These adventures, both dangerous and thrilling, are a testimony to the dedication, ingenuity, and passion that the sound engineering profession demands.
Keywords: sound engineering, live event experiences, fire in Yellowstone