RACC Sound & AV Program

ACC Sound & AV Program

Live Sound for Indian Performing Arts

Program Overview

Audio 101 – Carnatic Classical is a foundational learning program by Roopa Arts Cultural Center (RACC) designed to introduce students, volunteers, and aspiring sound engineers to the essentials of live sound for Carnatic classical music and related performing arts.

The program focuses on real-world performance environments, artist-centered sound planning, and hands-on exposure to professional audio practices commonly used in Indian classical concerts.

Program Mission

The mission of the RACC Audio 101 program is to:

• Build foundational audio knowledge for Indian classical performances
• Improve live sound quality through educated volunteers and technicians
• Make sound education accessible and community-driven
• Create an entry pathway into formal music, sound, and audio engineering education

Topics Covered

The Audio 101 – Carnatic Classical workshop introduces participants to the following key topics:

• Audience speakers and stage monitor fundamentals
• Speaker placement and room considerations
• Stage monitor importance for vocal, instrumental, dance, and spoken performances
• Basic wiring and signal flow
• Audio setup and shutdown sequence (equipment safety)
• Understanding sound from the artist’s perspective
• Planning sound requirements based on performers and venue size
• Role and ideal placement of the audio engineer
• Mixing console overview (analog and digital)
• Mobile mixing and room listening techniques
• Microphones commonly used in Carnatic classical music (SM58, SM57)
• Cable handling and connection basics
• Gain vs volume
• EQ controls (High, Mid, Low)
• Master volume and panning
• Basic use of effects (FX)
• Live demonstrations and volunteer-based practice

Certificate of Completion

Participants who complete the workshop receive a:

RACC Certificate of Completion

Audio 101 – Carnatic Classical | Level 1

Issued by Roopa Arts Cultural Center, a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

Value of the Certificate

While not a formal diploma, the RACC certificate provides meaningful advantages:

• Demonstrates foundational training in live audio for Indian classical music
• Strengthens applications to music schools, sound engineering programs, and media institutes
• Supports resumes for internships, volunteering, and assistant technician roles
• Shows hands-on exposure to live performance environments
• Serves as an entry-level credential for further study in audio and music technology

Learning Pathway

Audio 101 is designed as the first step in a structured learning pathway.
Future offerings will include advanced levels, performance-based learning, mentorship, and hands-on opportunities at RACC events.

Who This Program Is For

• Students exploring music, sound, or audio engineering
• Volunteers supporting live performances
• Performers seeking basic audio knowledge
• Aspiring sound engineers and technicians

Our Commitment

RACC is committed to accessible education and community learning.
Workshops are free to attend whenever possible, with pay-what-you-can support to sustain the program.