Education Focus: Abbey Road Institute's Bianca White

In the lead-up to Abbey Road Institute's Open Day on 20 Feb, we chat to Bianca White, who is currently studying an Advanced Diploma of Sound Production.

Why did you choose to undertake the Advanced Diploma of Sound Production at Abbey Road, over other courses and other education providers? What outcome do you want out of it? I'd completed a number of short production courses, which were great introductions overall, however I was looking for something more holistic that could provide me with a leading edge. Basically everything I need to be a great engineer and producer.

What was your favourite thing about the first year of your course? Having the ability to gain access to studios from the first semester. It's a very practical approach; you can put what you learn into practice immediately. It's a great way to network and put yourself out into the industry. 

What was the most challenging thing? Coming from an electronic background I had little experience recording bands — I found this slightly challenging. This has allowed me to broaden my horizons in terms of genres and will also open a lot of doors for future job prospects.

What are you most looking forward to this year of your course? The ability to produce music that's world class, and the ability to work with a digital and analogue mixing desk. We have an S6 and API desk available. Having this skill set will give me an advantage when I leave.

If you could go back a whole year and give yourself some advice about the first year of the Advanced Diploma of Sound Production, what would it be? What you put in is what you get out! Spend time learning everything and then put those skills into practice. Talent is great, but in my mind effort, passion and hard work will always get you further!