THE BLACKBIRD ACADEMY - PROFESSIONAL SCHOOL OF AUDIO
Learn Studio & Live Sound Engineering
There is a need for a new model in audio education which gives students access to true working professionals and hands-on experience using a world-class collection of gear in facilities designed for one purpose: making excellent music! The Blackbird Academy addresses these needs by providing a mentor-based program where students are taught by a unique cast of professional instructors and award-win
07/02/2026
If you've been through The Blackbird Academy, chances are you remember Guitar & Drum Week with Mike and Paulie. If you haven't experienced it yet, it's an immersive crash course in not only the instruments themselves, but also how to communicate and collaborate with the musicians you'll be working with on future sessions.
For those who've been there, what's your favorite memory from their guest lecture?
06/29/2026
Six months of dedication, long hours, and countless lessons have led to this moment. Congratulations to the Blackbird Academy Class of January 2026 on your graduation!
As you step into the next chapter, we can’t wait to see the records you’ll help create, the shows you will help put on, the artists you’ll work with, and the careers you’ll build. Keep learning, stay curious, and remember that the connections you’ve made here will be just as valuable as the skills you’ve gained. Reach out to your classmates or instructors if you ever need anything.
We’re proud to welcome you to the Blackbird Academy alumni community. Here’s to everything that’s ahead. We’re rooting for you.
06/26/2026
A great day at Blackbird Academy with visits from two Grammy-winning legends and longtime friends of Blackbird.
George Massenburg spent time giving feedback on songs engineered by BBA students for their final projects, and later in the day, Vance Powell joined Cristina Vane to share his expertise on cylinder recording, accompanied by the wonderful Martin.
Days like this are a good reminder of just how special this community is. We’re grateful for everyone who helps make Blackbird Academy what it is.
From college dropout to working recording engineer, David Shivers found a different path. Six months, real studios, hands-on experience, and opportunities from day one. If you're serious about building a career in audio, the Blackbird Academy might just change everything.
Comment below if you're ready to take the first step.
06/15/2026
There's no substitute for getting your hands on the gear. From drum tuning to mic placement, Blackbird Academy students learn by doing with world-class equipment from brands such as DPA, preparing them for the realities of professional studios.
Sounds cool? Comment below and we will reach out to you on how to start your audio career.
A guest session with 2x Grammy Award winner Jacquire King at The Blackbird Academy, sharing what it really takes to make records at the highest level.
“In the end, you’re pulling something out of thin air… and what matters most is communication, building trust, and supporting the artist’s vision.”
Comment below and we’ll tell you everything you need to know about joining a 6-month, real-world learning experience inside The Blackbird Academy.
Problem solving is at the heart of live sound. Tessa Wallace built her foundation at Blackbird Academy and now works as a monitor engineer for Larry Fleet. By exploring every role in live audio, she found her place behind the console.
Ready to start your own path in audio? Learn more through the link in our bio.
06/02/2026
Learn studio engineering hands-on in the same rooms and on the same gear behind countless records. From live tracking and overdubs to mixing sessions and real-world studio workflow, The Blackbird Academy is built to immerse you in the process from day one.
Think you’ve got what it takes? Comment below and we’ll send you everything you need to know to start your journey as a studio engineer.
Time is running out! Applications for our July classes close by tomorrow, June 1st.
From Blackbird Academy student to assistant engineer at Addiction Sound Studios, JD Halstead shares what made the experience different:
“You’re in the rooms with real music being made, learning hands-on from engineers doing it the right way. It gives you a real jumpstart stepping into this career.”
Ready to take the next step toward a career in audio?
Comment below if you want to learn more about joining The Blackbird Academy.
05/27/2026
A glimpse at the gear Blackbird Academy students train on at Studio I, where every patch and piece is part of the learning process on the same level as real-world sessions. When Studio A is booked, Studio I is included as a dedicated edit space, proof that at Blackbird, the line between learning and working gear stays intentionally blurred.
| Monday | 9am - 5pm |
| Tuesday | 9am - 5pm |
| Wednesday | 9am - 5pm |
| Thursday | 9am - 5pm |
| Friday | 9am - 5pm |