Alumni Update: Aaron Klingbeil, Audio Production & Engineering

Aaron Klingbeil, a graduate of our Audio Production & Engineering Program, is building success with his own electronic music company, Spacefood Audio Visual, in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. Spacefood Audio Visual provides Recording, Mastering, and Music Production services as well as mentorship for students interested in learning how to produce electronic music using Ableton Live.

We spoke with Aaron about his company and the journey so far.

Can you tell me a little bit about Spacefood Audio Visual?

[Since] graduating from Metalworks Institute it hasn’t been all success for me. It took a while before I really found my niche in the industry. Until recently, it had never occurred to me that a living could be made from teaching electronic music production.

Since making my business, Spacefood Audio Visual, I have had the extreme pleasure of instructing a rapidly growing group of very talented producers and sound recordists. I am currently teaching electronic music production, using Ableton Live, to a surprising range of students from age 14 to 65!

With each student having a different goal, I am able to exercise all of the knowledge I’ve taken from MWI. Recording, mixing and mastering for Country/Folk bands, to sound design techniques for devastating bass synth patches, to beat making and song arrangement; my students always keep me on my toes! I am currently teaching online via video conferencing, as well as in-person at Long & McQuade’s Lesson Centre, and at various weekly and bi-weekly group courses in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Have you had any other interesting jobs or worked on any significant projects since graduating?

Since graduating, I have had the pleasure of working in many different areas of the music and entertainment industry. In 2011 I worked in Terrace, BC as the traffic manager for a local radio station, CFNR Classic Rock. But much of the progress made in my career took off after moving to Halifax, NS in 2015. Since arriving on the East coast, I’ve worked as a production sound recordist at two local film companies, Journeyman Films and Nexus Media. On the music front, artists I have produced and/or engineered for include “Elfinity – World Peace Dub EP”, “The Big Fonts”, “Richard Gherke”, among others. I am currently thrilled about a project for a local artist who is sure to make waves, “Matthew Snow”.

What has been the most helpful aspect of your Metalworks education?

My education from Metalworks Institute has equipped me with the confidence and a high degree technical understanding required to navigate an industry that is characterized by constant innovation. Having the opportunity to speak casually with seasoned professionals about their experiences throughout their careers has helped prevent unexpected surprises in my own career.

Any words of wisdom for current students?

My words of wisdom to pass on to current students are words passed to me from one of my instructors at MWI (I’m pretty sure it was Alfio). Don’t be afraid to jump out of a moving car, running (metaphorically speaking, of course). To me this means to say yes to any opportunity that you feel might be just outside of your comfort zone, but be prepared to put the extra work in to bring yourself up to speed! Know that the fear will be the greatest when the opportunity means the most to you. DON’T LET THAT FEAR HOLD YOU BACK.

Aaron’s journey so far is a perfect example of what can be achieved when an ambitious entrepreneur is prepared with the right skills. Check out Spacefood Audio Visual’s Facebook Page @spacefoodAV to learn more or get in touch.