Learning Objectives:

• Shift from fear to confidence when using school sound equipment

• Learn the VOICE acronym and how it empowers your audio skills

• Take the first steps toward hands-on practice without stress

The Big Picture:

You are not alone. Most music teachers didn’t get a sound tech degree—and yet, we’re handed the keys to an auditorium full of audio and lighting gear. This module tackles the biggest roadblock of all: mindset. If you've ever thought, “I’m afraid to touch it—I don’t want to break anything,” this is for you.

We’ll walk through a practical, compassionate shift from intimidation to empowerment. Starting with VOICE

VOICE: Your Framework for Confidence

Let’s break it down:

• V – Vocabulary
  Learning anything involves vocabulary. We've already started with feedback and gain. Even if it's only to better Google problems, vocabulary is important.

• O – Opportunity & Optimism
  Carve out short, low-pressure windows to explore your gear. Come in early. Snap a picture first. Play with faders, EQ, and more—and bring it all back after. You’re not going to break it!

• I – Inquisitiveness
  Get curious! Ask “what does this do?” and try it. The mindset of curiosity is your greatest tool.

• C – Concepts
  You don’t need to learn rocket science. These are manageable concepts, and you’ll build them one small step at a time.

• E – Equipment
  This is last on purpose. Gear matters, but your mindset and knowledge are what make even modest equipment shine.

Try This

1. Go to your school’s soundboard when there’s no event pressure.

2. Take a photo of every setting.

3. Move one fader or tweak one EQ setting. Listen. Then put it back.

4. Repeat weekly. Little by little, you build confidence.

Want Help?

Email me at [email protected] and let me know what’s causing you frustration. Let's see if we can fix it together.