I am currently in a full time job but looking to go part time to do a sound engineering/music production course to get qualified in an attempt to get a job in a studio, starting at what ever level I can get in at - (tea boy if needs be) - is this the best way to try and get into such a job or is it purely a case of contacts and arse kissing and if so would doing such a course be a waste of time and money?? I need some good advice as I really need and want to change my career direction asap!

Cheers

doing any course like this will be good, as it shows you're interested, plus any qualifications and skills gained will be good.

also, its another way of maybe opening avenues, and getting into contact with studios.

but, like any qualification now, it's not gaurantee of a job outcome.

also, try asking studios if you can do any voluntary work

yes its a stepping stone
but i still think its about who you know as well, for that first step
or to get you on that first rung, helping out in a studio, meeting people

I'd very much recommend asking on http://www.blue-room.org.uk/
(sorry for linking to other forum mods but its very industry specific)

that forum has a lot of prominent members of the backstage music community, and they're generally happy to help as long as you're polite etc.

This is one3 of those jobs that you need to start at the bottom and claw your way up. Its not as simple as getting the paper and walking into a job. All the best producers (Rollo of faithless, Mark "Uptown Top" Rankin and loads of others) started as teaboys and cable jockeys. SOmething that you need to be prepared to put in the hours for.

Joel

Thanks very much everyone who has posted - just found a course at confetti studios in nottingham I quite fancy doing so heres hoping!! I'll check that forum too Carl_Malibu - thanks again - any help or advice is always much appreciated!