Frequently Asked Questions
GOT A QUESTION ABOUT SOUND CHECK? FIND OUT MORE ABOUT WHAT WE DO AND HOW TO GET INVOLVED BELOW
Sound Check is a free to access live music and events training programme, currently hosted at Future Yard (Birkenhead). We have previously also offered courses in Lancashire and Greater Manchester.
Nothing, all Sound Check courses are free to access.
Anyone who has a passion for live music will enjoy Sound Check. The aim of the programme is to introduce you to the skills needed to start a career in live music. No previous experience is required for most Sound Check courses, we will show you everything you need. We also offer a more advanced Sound Check course for those who already have a grounding in music and live events.
A range of skills needed to lead a career in live music, focused on Technical Production (live sound and lighting) and Live Music Event Management (box office, artist liaison and event management). These are done through workshops, taught classes and hands-on learning, as well as shadowing experienced professionals.
The different programmes are down to guidance set by the organisations that fund the courses, and times that you are happy to commit. All courses cover the same basic curriculum around Technical Production and Live Event Management, and all have work experience ‘shadow’ shifts as part of the course. All courses are open to people aged 19+.
You will be partnered with an event manager, lighting engineer or audio engineer, and you will observe them in their duties in delivering the show. You’re free to ask questions and make notes. You will also be expected to help them out with certain tasks, e.g. helping artists to load into the venue, set up on stage, assisting during sound checks, etc. These shadowing sessions are live gigs with an audience, so you may have to shadow several times before you’re comfortable to use the sound or lighting desk. Most shows will take place at nights, so you will need to consider how you will get home after the show has finished (usually 11pm).
Not currently – the only courses we are currently accepting applications for in Summer 2025 are Skills Bootcamps aimed at learners aged 19+.
We will be offering courses for learners aged 16-19 in the future – please check back for updates on when these courses are set to start.
All of the currently offered Sound Check programmes take place at Future Yard in Birkenhead (CH41 6AB).
Click on the link below and fill out the form; a member of the Sound Check team will be in touch to update you on the progress of your application. Don’t worry if you don’t know which course to apply for, our team will look at your application and will guide you towards the right course for you.
A member of the team will get back to you within two weeks of completing the form. Note: completing the application form is not a guarantee of a place on the course.
No, this is not a music performance course – it is about learning the skills and career behind live events, that make music happen.
Unfortunately not – but if you are taken on the course, please speak to your course tutor to see if any bursaries are available.
This is not a paid course, though it is free to access.
Yes, but priority will be shown to those who are not currently in education, employment or training. If you are on an existing Skills Bootcamp course, you may not be able to take part in another one.
The Skills Bootcamp courses we are currently enrolling for in Summer 2025 do not have Maths and English support.