Sound for the Performing Arts (Portfolio Required)

Purdue University in West Lafayette

Sound for the Performing Arts seeks to expand the young sound designer/technician/engineer’s range of knowledge and expression through a broad-based exposure to the many and various careers related to sound for the performing arts. Typically, sound designers enter this field with either a strong technical/engineering aptitude/background or extraordinary musical talent in composition and/or performance. Ideal candidates demonstrate strong aptitude in both fields.

Students receive a solid foundation in all aspects of sound for the performing arts as part of a well-rounded liberal arts education. Working as part of many different types of teams, the student learns to collaborate artistically and technically towards the realization of a multitude of auditory projects in the performing arts. The program is diverse enough to allow students to focus their energies more toward the technical side, the artistic side, or both.

The major consists of core classes, specialized training and related electives. Upon completion, the student may choose to enter any sound related field or pursue further graduate study for a career in the entertainment industry.

Digital Portfolio: The portfolio should feature a selection of 5 to 10 pieces that vividly showcase your artistic prowess and theatrical expertise. Your chosen pieces can encompass various forms of creative expression, ranging from sound recordings, music compositions, scores, cue sheets, and sound drafts, to recordings or videos of your instrumental performances. Additionally, you have the option to incorporate visual elements such as drawings, photographs, sketches, sculptures, and paintings. We are interested in all your artistic and creative abilities!

Still image files should be submitted in JPEG, PNG, BMP, or TIFF format. Video and moving image files are accepted in QuickTime, AVI, FLV, MP4, or WMV format, with a maximum duration of five minutes. Audio files should be in WAV, MP3, AAC, or AIFF format. Submissions may be uploaded to a cloud storage service (such as Box, Google Drive or Dropbox), with the link sent to zhan4748@purdue.edu. Alternatively, you may create an online portfolio or website and provide the link.

*Students may only audition to enter this degree option after completing courses in the freshman year with a 2.5 GPA.