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Audio Academy for AV, IT and Audio Professionals from AvitaS

Good training in audio systems has always been difficult to find, especially for those who are already working full-time. AvitaS is a new company that has been set up by a number of seasoned audio professionals with the specific aim of addressing this issue. The result is a comprehensive eight-part training course aimed at people working in audiovisual, IT and professional audio markets.

Conceived and developed by AvitaS founder members, Roland Hemming, Lauren Rogers, Mark McLean and James Eade (who is also technical editor for Lighting & Sound International) the course is aimed at giving people the information they really need to know about designing, specifying, installing and using audio systems, in the real world.

The inaugural program starts 24th September 2009 at Teddington Studios. Running one day a fortnight over 16 weeks, it covers everything from acoustics, loudspeakers, microphones, processing and mixers. It also covers the design issues with sound - drawings and documentation, noise levels, and concludes with a section on the latest technology including digital audio networks.

"Over the past few years we have seen that technical professionals have almost no opportunities to expand their skills," noted Roland Hemming. "This course is unique in that it is not a product-driven seminar. It takes a system-based approach, looking at what you are trying to achieve and giving you the understanding to then specify and use the right product for that situation."

A recent survey published by InfoCOMM listed audio as a key part of the business for the majority of AV companies, yet the survey also found that the majority lacked both the technical skills or understanding of the audio market. This course seeks to address that issue, to enable AV and IT personnel to be far more confident when dealing with sound systems and issues related to sound.

"We expect attendees to leave the course with the confidence to specify sound systems for a wide variety of applications,' said James Eade. "It is intended to be directly useful to your business."

The course is run in association with AV Magazine and with the sponsorship of several major pro audio companies, namely: COMS, Soundcraft, Sennheiser UK, ASL and Lab.gruppen. AV Magazine sees it as a key part of helping their readership. "Training is key for our readers and by promoting this course as part of the AV Academy we expect to make a real difference to people's businesses," said Bhavna Mistry Editor of AV.

According to Tim Chapman, head of marketing, Lab.gruppen: "Advancing the education of individuals and companies working in and around the AV industry is vital to the future of the business. In these difficult times efficiency of operation is paramount. Knowledge and understanding of good technical practice can greatly aid this goal."

ASL's sales and marketing director, Richard Lack agrees: "This is exactly the sort of practical knowledge transfer needed for companies competing at the top of the pro audio and PA/VA game."

"Sennheiser UK is pleased to be supporting this audio training course initiative," says Phil Massey, general manager of Sennheiser UK. "Despite the recent economic downturn, the AV industry is still buoyant, offers good growth potential and there is always scope to improve understanding of good audio practice within the AV sector. As the AV industry grows, good technical training will continue to be essential, with the ability to identify, map and configure the right products to specific applications being a key factor that will assist in achieving that growth and driving future business."

Dave Neal, director of marketing communications for Harman said: "Soundcraft firmly believes in education and training, which is why we are delighted to be a sponsor for this audio training course. Our experience of running our own training courses (Going Live) showed how much hunger there is for knowledge in all sectors, particularly where audio may not be a prime focus, and we see this course as a major step forward in supporting the AV industry."

The final word goes to Richard Northwood of COMS: "COMS has agreed to sponsor the AvitaS training course as we firmly believe that in-depth training, coupled with project experience, is the best way to release the potential currently locked away in the AV industry. A day when you haven't learnt something is a wasted day so we would encourage all to ensure that their career development is not
hindered by a lack of training."

The course runs form 24th September 2009 at Teddington Studios.

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Audio Academy for AV, IT and Audio Professionals from AvitaS

13th July 2009

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