Texas A&M University-Kingsville second in state to offer sound recording degree

Texas A&M University-Kingsville is introducing a new sound recording technology program this fall.

Students interested in the field of audio production will have the opportunity to pursue a bachelor’s degree in sound recording technology through the university School of Music. The program will also offer a certificate.

The program will be the second in the state. The only other school with a bachelor’s degree in sound recording technology is Texas State University.

Incoming senior Juan Tinajero signed up for sound recording courses in the fall, and again in the spring. Originally, he thought he might pursue the certificate. Tinajero, a musician studying in the music school’s jazz department, found he really enjoyed the recording classes.

Now, after speaking with an adviser and faculty, he will likely pursue a sound recording technology degree.

Tinajero said that he believes there are many possibilities in the sound industry.

“The technology itself, it’s still growing,” Tinajero said. “It’s very modern and very open and there’s a lot to do with it.”

The classes he’s taken so far focused on the basics of sound, Tinajero said.

“The most important thing was to learn how to use your ears when it comes to listening to recordings and live sound and other musicians,” Tinajero said. “Then we learned how to apply that in live scenarios.”

In a live sound class in the spring, students got experience at a jazz festival, working live sound and assisting with livestreaming of events.

The program will be led by associate professor Brian Thacker. The degree will prepare students to work in production, including at recording studios or broadcast companies, and in the field of live sound, such as for concerts or events.

If a student wants to start their own recording studio, the sound recording degree would help them, Thacker said.

“It’s a very entrepreneurial degree,” Thacker said. “It’s designed for students who are definitely self-motivated.”

For the degree, students will take many of the same classes already available at the music school, such as music history and music theory, as well as advanced courses in sound recording technology. The degree is aimed at musicians.

“We’re preparing musicians to go into the field,” Thacker said. “They come in and they approach production from a musical aspect with musical training.”

Students interested in the program must audition for the School of Music.

Several music majors have already decided to switch to the program. In the fall, the program will also be open to a cohort of 15 freshmen.

Thacker said that he hopes there will be opportunities to collaborate with other areas of the university, assisting with events and recordings.

"The innovative new program offers students a wealth of hands-on experience working with expert faculty, award-winning musical ensembles and in truly world-class facilities," Scott Anthony Jones, School of Music director and director of bands, said in a press release.

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This article originally appeared on Corpus Christi Caller Times: Texas A&M University-Kingsville to add sound recording degree