Melvyn Ng, Diploma in Music Production and Engineering ’21

Melvyn is a passionate and dedicated professional in audio engineering, specializing in studio recording, audio post-production, and live sound engineering. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he made a significant career shift from the materials science and logistics industry to pursue his true passion for music production and audio engineering. His journey has been marked by dedication and resilience, leading him to a full-time role as a Studio Engineer while also working as a freelance live sound engineer for various events.

Melvyn’s portfolio has grown impressively, with notable contributions including audio post-production work for SMRT Media and a music video for Minister Josephine Teo, in collaboration with the Kreta Ayer, Kim Seng Youth Network. His freelance work has seen him collaborate with venues like Timbre, Pulse Livehouse, and Marina Bay Sands Theatre, as well as work on numerous concerts and musicals.

What motivated you to join SOMA, and have you achieved your goals?

I joined SOMA to make a meaningful career change into something I was truly passionate about. After managing an events company and working in logistics, I realized during the COVID-19 lockdown that my true interest lay in music production and audio engineering. SOMA offered the ideal environment for this transition, providing both foundational knowledge and practical experience.

One of my main goals was to immerse myself in music production and songwriting and to acquire the technical skills needed for success in this competitive field. Today, with full-time roles as both a Studio Engineer and Live Sound Engineer, I’m confident that I’ve met my short-term goals. However, I remain eager to continue learning and setting new challenges while contributing to the music production community in Singapore.

During your studies at SOMA, what challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?

The greatest challenge I faced was taking on freelance jobs that pushed me beyond my comfort zone. Eager to gain experience, I accepted a variety of roles such as studio assistant, recording assistant, and mix prep assistant, many of which exceeded my initial learning. These challenges were tough, but they were also where I grew the most.

I was fortunate to have exceptional mentors during this time. My performance lab instructor, Bryan Tay, provided invaluable guidance, particularly with complex projects like the music video for Minister Josephine Teo. I also received strong support from the SOMA community, including alumni who offered insights during my student internship on post-production projects. These experiences, combined with my determination to improve, helped me navigate the challenges I faced.

How has the course prepared you for your career today?

The hands-on experience I gained at SOMA was crucial in preparing me for my career. The courses provided a solid foundation in both the technical and creative aspects of music production and audio engineering. Additional modules in songwriting were particularly beneficial, offering a deeper understanding of recording sessions from a songwriter’s perspective. This knowledge has been instrumental in guiding artists through their recording and production processes.

What set SOMA apart was the exposure to real-world projects and valuable industry connections. Instructors like Edric Hwang and Keith Kwok introduced me to opportunities that were key to honing my skills and building my portfolio.

These experiences, along with the mentorship and support from the SOMA community, have been invaluable in shaping my career as a studio and live sound engineer.