This year, three of our students travelled to SXSW to help run the British Music Embassy (BME) stages, where they played a key role in delivering over 50 performances across two stages over eight action-packed days. From Antony Szmierek and Confidence Man to Steam Down and Sam Ryder, the venue was alive with incredible British talent. This year also shone a spotlight on creativity in the North - something we’re particularly passionate about!

SXSW provides an invaluable opportunity for our students to gain hands-on experience while immersing themselves in the global live events scene. For student Samuel Gunton, the experience was both educational and unforgettable:

“I mixed front-of-house audio as well as monitors for the ALT stage, handling everything from patch and changeovers to radio mics and in-ear monitors. My favourite part of SXSW was mixing the Himalayas, but I also loved using the Allen & Heath Avantis console, the latest Shure microphones, and a dB Technologies PA system.

It was a pleasure to work with my fellow students, and industry professionals like Jack from Allen & Heath, as well as freelancers Jez and Gareth, who taught me new concepts that deepened my understanding of the kit.”

Leoni Conway, another student who worked at SXSW, reflected on her experience:

 "I worked in and around the most amazing crew of people, experienced things I will treasure for a lifetime, and gained experienced I will take with me for the remainder of my career. 

My main responsibilities included patching on both the Courtyard and ALT stages. I also had the chance to mix Front of House and Monitors on the CY stage- and both simultaneously on the ALT stage!"

Working at SXSW is a chance to get stuck in and take on a variety of important roles as Sam Tebbutt explains:

  "I was there working as the LD/Operator for lights on the ALT Stage at the BME. It was a great experience designing the rig so that I could get the best out of the room we were working in, opting for coloured washes to create the general mood and then using the Robe Esprites to create dynamic looks and punches."  

The students enthusiasm and professionalism were commended by everyone working on the BME stages.  

“The students this year have been fantastic. We’ve had a really strong team, with everyone jumping in, trying new things, and collaborating across different departments. The artists have been hugely impressed by their professionalism and skill. The shows have been flawless,” explains Sam Wilkinson, BME Stage Manager & Studio Operations Manager at Production Park. 

He added, “SXSW is an amazing opportunity for the students. I wish we could take more. It’s a great chance for them to get out and see the world, especially a really cool city like Austin.”

Want to discover more about life as an ALT Student? Why not visit us at our next open day?