Music Tech: The Sounds of Houghton

The Greatbatch School of Music building at Houghton University

Houghton University hosts the Greatbatch School of Music for students who are interested in majoring in a variety of both undergraduate and graduate music related degrees. The Greatbatch School of Music, however, also allows for opportunities to engage in music related tasks for students who are not a music major.

As a Music Technician, Jonathan Hutmire is a part of a team that works in the music booth inside of the Wesley Chapel located on campus. Hutmire and the other students help operate and design sound and lighting for the chapel services as well as Koinonia, an worship service that happens regularly on Sunday nights.

Hutmire primarily works with sound design and sound quality for these events, making sure the sound is clear as can be and that it isn't too loud or too quiet for the audience members. However, this can be difficult sometimes.

"It’s not particularly forgiving if you make mistakes. If you move the lyrics slide too soon everyone knows. Many people come back to the booth with complaints that it’s too loud, too quiet, the lights are too distracting, or it’s too dim to see. It’s difficult to keep everyone happy." Hutmire said when he was asked what was difficult about working in the sound booth.

However, despite such challenges, Hutmire enjoys working in the sound booth. "We take care of each other like family. If someone needs an event covered or needs help they can just ask another passing tech and they hop in to help. Plus, we get to mix sound, which can be a lot of fun!" Hutmire said. "While we’re technically employed by the school, we’re given a lot of freedom and responsibility rather than being strictly managed."

Yet when asked if there were any areas that could be improved upon, Hutmire admitted there were two areas he wished would be improved. "I think the faculty employing and communicating with the students in the Music Industry is understaffed at the moment." Hutmire said, stating that while students are given lots of creative freedom, the communication between student workers and the staff are not very effective.

"Overall this job has created a sense of community within the tech students on campus, and has given me the opportunity to get to know many others such as performers or faculty as I set up tech for them." Hutmire said when asked if there was anything else he'd like to add in regards to his work. In conclusion, working as a Music Technician seems to be one of the many ways students can both gain useful experience in a hands on environment while building relationships with their peers. It also allows for students to find new ways to express their creative vision while they learn.

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