I recall we once posted an article on this blog where producers and engineers were giving their advice on something. Soon after I saw a comment posted on social media which went something like; “Who’s interested in this when it’s just middle aged men?” It wasn’t the smartest comment to make, it was meant to highlight gender disparity in the audio industry, but you don’t fix sexism by resorting to ageism. It was another form of discrimination and two wrongs don’t make a right. The comment showed that we all have blind spots and exhibit ignorance in our consideration of others.
Being 57 and a parent of kids with ages ranging from 9 to 29 gives me a particular perspective on life. It’s a moment in my lifetime when I can appreciate that both old and young have unique things to offer. Neither is better or worse, simply different and indeed complimentary.
It’s too easy to write off the opinion of someone based on them being too old, or too young, and again, it’s not a wise position to take. I want to offer reasons why both those of us of a certain age (and older) and those who are young have unique things to offer the audio production world. I’ve split it into two sections first, you choose which one you need to read.
What Is Ageism?
Ageism is a deeply embedded form of discrimination that persists in our society, even in the modern era. It is the prejudiced attitudes and actions towards individuals based on their age, whether too young or too old. This bias can manifest itself in various ways, from the denial of opportunities and unequal treatment in the workplace, to the dismissal and devaluation of older individuals' opinions and contributions in social settings. Ageism perpetuates harmful stereotypes, undermining the valuable knowledge, wisdom, and experiences that can be shared by individuals of all ages. It is imperative that we challenge and dismantle ageist beliefs to create a more inclusive and equitable audio community, where all individuals are respected and valued, regardless of their age.
If You Are Young Read This
Here are several compelling reasons why young people should appreciate and value the contributions of older individuals in the audio production industry:
Experience and Wisdom
Older audio professionals have spent years honing their skills and gaining experience in the field. This wealth of experience translates into a deep understanding of sound, production techniques, and troubleshooting that can't be replicated overnight. Their wisdom can be invaluable in avoiding pitfalls and help make informed decisions based on experience.
Pioneering Innovation
Many of the techniques and technologies used in modern audio production have roots in earlier decades. The older generation played a crucial role in developing these foundational techniques, paving the way for the creative possibilities we enjoy today. Understanding this history can enrich young producers' perspectives and foster a greater sense of respect for those who paved the way. It’s too easy to embrace the vintage and classic gear and at the same time write of the people who came up with it in the first place.
Mentorship and Skill Transfer
Older professionals often have a strong desire to pass on their knowledge to the next generation. Their willingness to mentor young talent provides an unparalleled opportunity for hands-on learning and skill development. Learning from experienced mentors accelerates growth and equips young producers with practical insights that might take years to discover on their own. You can often learn from the mistake of others without having to make those mistakes yourself.
Analogue Expertise
Many older professionals began their careers in an era dominated by analogue equipment. Their deep familiarity with these older technologies can provide a unique perspective that complements the digital era. This blend of analog and digital knowledge can result in distinctive and innovative sonic creations.
Musical Heritage
Older audio producers have lived through various musical eras, each with its own distinct style and sonic characteristics. Their exposure to diverse musical genres and trends contributes to a broader understanding of music's evolution. This historical perspective can inspire young producers to blend the best of the past with contemporary innovation.
Problem-Solving Abilities
In the pre-digital era, audio production often required creative problem-solving due to limitations in technology. Older professionals developed a knack for finding ingenious solutions to technical challenges, and these problem-solving skills remain relevant today, even in our high-tech environment.
Resilience and Adaptability
The audio industry has undergone significant transformations over the years, from analog to digital, from physical media to streaming. Older professionals have demonstrated resilience by adapting to these changes and staying relevant. Their ability to navigate such shifts can inspire younger individuals to be adaptable in the face of industry changes.
Preservation of Authenticity
Older producers often value the authenticity of sound, emphasising the importance of capturing performances and emotions in their purest form. This focus on authenticity can be a refreshing counterbalance to the sometimes over-processed nature of modern productions.
Legacy and Continuity
Recognizing the contributions of older professionals helps to preserve a sense of continuity and legacy within the audio production industry. By acknowledging their impact, younger producers contribute to a sense of interconnectedness between generations, fostering a positive and respectful industry culture.
If You Are Old Read This
There are several compelling reasons why older people in the audio production industry should genuinely appreciate and value the contributions of younger producers and engineers.
Fresh Perspectives
Younger audio producers often bring a fresh perspective to production. Their exposure to evolving trends, technologies, and cultural shifts can lead to innovative approaches that breathe new life into the industry. Embracing these new viewpoints can foster creativity and help prevent stagnation.
Technological Savvy
Younger audio producers have grown up in a digital age and are typically well-versed in the latest technologies. Their familiarity with cutting-edge tools and software can introduce more efficient workflows and novel techniques, enhancing the overall production process.
Adaptability
The audio production landscape is constantly evolving, with new platforms and distribution channels emerging regularly. Younger producers tend to be adaptable and quick learners, making them well-equipped to navigate these changes and integrate them into their work.
Innovation and Experimentation
Experimentation is a hallmark of youth. Young audio professionals are often unafraid to take risks and explore unconventional soundscapes. This willingness to push boundaries can lead to groundbreaking sound designs and unexpected sonic experiences.
Diversity and Inclusion
The younger generation brings a greater awareness of diversity and inclusion to the industry. They are more likely to champion representation and push for equitable opportunities, helping to create a more inclusive and vibrant audio production community.
Digital Marketing and Branding Expertise
With many younger professionals having a background in marketing and branding, they can offer insights into how to effectively promote and distribute music in the digital realm. Their knowledge of social media and online engagement strategies can enhance visibility and reach.
Multimedia Skills
Younger audio producers often possess a range of multimedia skills beyond just sound production. They may have expertise in video editing, graphic design, and other creative fields, allowing for more holistic and captivating content creation.
Energy and Enthusiasm
The passion and enthusiasm that younger individuals bring to their work can be infectious. Their energy can inspire others and infuse the industry with renewed excitement, reminding older professionals of the initial drive that brought them into the field.
We Need Each Other
As the industry tries to find correction over its poor record on gender, sexual orientation, and other factors, let’s not forget that ageism is something we need to guard against too.
It’s clear that both young and old have unique things to offer the audio production industry, it’s essential to embrace all sections of the audio production world. It’s often our fear of irrelevance or being misunderstood that means we write off a certain section of the industry based on their age.
To write off anyone in the audio production world based on age is ignorant and unwise, as clearly shown above, we all have a part to play.