Debunking Job Titles: Studio Manager
While plenty of us work in the music industry, only a portion of us actually work with music… as in, you know, making it.
The brand-spanking new Forbes Street Studios in Sydney has already had records such as Dean Lewis’ Same Kind of Different and Vera Blue’s Perennial come to life under its high-tech roof. Their state-of-the-art gear is super impressive; the studio is home to Australia’s only Barefoot MiniMain 12 speaker!
The wizard weaving the magic behind closed, soundproof doors is Anthony Garvin, Forbes’ studio manager.
His job goes way beyond listening to ‘the next big thing’ having kittens over their 52nd edit and stocking up the cookie jar breakroom.
How does your mum describe what you do?
“Anthony runs recording studios”… but I don’t think she can ever remember which one it is!
But seriously, what does a day in the life of a studio manager look like?
Checking on sessions past and present, liaising with our engineers and clients, listening to music, coming up with new ways to keep the studio busy… then playing with sound in the studio.
What’s is one thing about your job that is really obvious to you, but other people may not know?
Great equipment is only a fraction of what makes a studio enticing, inspiring and productive for artists and producers.
The vibe of the spaces, the smiles on the staff and having all the little things taken care of count for much more.
What’s the most important skill to have in your job?
Customer service!!!
The thing you find most challenging about your job is…
Prioritising the important work over the distracting work.
And the most rewarding part?
The freedom of being entrusted with the keys to this fantastic studio, and seeing our facilities genuinely have an impact on the artist’s music.
What do you think is the biggest industry misconception about being a studio manager?
It’s okay to sit back and wait for the phone to ring… nope, it’s not!
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given about working in the music industry:
A previous mentor of mine noted he attributed more personal success due to the jobs and deals he said no to, rather than those he said yes to.
But I think that needs to be deliberated on carefully if you’re just starting out…
And give us one stellar piece of advice for anyone wanting to do your job:
Following through on a great idea is more important than the idea itself.
Finally – when you look back at your career as a retired old prune, what do you hope to have achieved?
To have played a significant role in elevating the talent of Australian engineers and producers to the next level.