STEPHEN RUMPH

In 2018, I completed my Associate Degree in Audio Production with SAE Brisbane and picked up a ‘Service to the SAE Community’ Award and Recognition for my time on the SAE ‘Student Representative Council’. In July 2018, I was employed as a Tech Officer for SAE Brisbane and am continuing my freelancing career with Sonic Bakery Audio. Both of which are dream roles.

What inspired you to enter into the career you’re in?
I have been encouraged my whole life by family, friends and teachers to be creative and keep playing music. I started when I was 10 with Guitar and Bass and picked up drums when I was 18. I’m still playing and I love it. I think the awesome staff in the tech office really took me under their wing and helped me change the way I think about solving problems, that inspired me to want to be like them. I was positive, showed them I was learning and talked shop with them whenever I had a chance, and now I’m one of them.

What are your fondest memories of your time at SAE?
Working together with the different disciplines was my favourite part of the course. It really broadened my knowledge of the audio industry and gave me some new pathways to pursue as a learner. I spent a lot of time working in the studios and can say that is something I’ll never forget. Such an amazing campus with amazing friends.

Are you able to shed some light on how studying at SAE lead you to where you are now?
I remember attending the SAE graduation and was so impressed with how organised it was, that I signed up and began my audio degree. It wasn’t long before I was introduced to the Tech Office. It was a little intimidating at first, but I found doing my research on the equipment was a great way into conversation with the Team. Due to that, I was able to assist students in the studio or with equipment, help out at marketing events and be a part of the student council. Being informed about my discipline helped me get the position I’m in today.

What are your career highlights?

• Recording the Queensland Wind Orchestra at The Old Museum
• Any Moment (Musical) – Studio Production
• The Oasis (Musical) – Studio Production
• Album of the Week in Beat Magazine Melbourne 2015
• Trails – Studio Production 2017
• The Great Dynamic Range Podcast

What projects are you working on at the moment?
I’m currently working on freelance projects for Sonic Bakery and am writing and recording demos for a new band project in the Doom Metal Genre.

What advice would you give to students aspiring to become successful in their field?
Learn more than you have to and be curious about all aspects of your field. Be positive and don’t stress about the little things. One thing I have found that helps me focus on the job at hand, is meditation and mindfulness. You can do it whenever and wherever you want, and helps you clear the distracting thoughts from your mind so you go out there and get that gig.