Music Alumnus Giving Presentation in England at Oxford University
10/28/2011 11:29 AM
Evan Beigel ’95 produces, records and composes music abroad.
By Ivy Hillman ’12
On Nov. 15 Evan Beigel ’95 will deliver his first presentation at Oxford University, one of the leading universities in the world and the oldest English-speaking university. Beigel’s presentation is titled “Skill Sets of Today’s Successful Music Content Creators: Why It Pays to Pursue Mastery in Composition, Production & Engineering.”
“The presentation is about expanding the craft of music composition to include mastery in music production, engineering and mixing in order to meet the modern demands of the commercial music industry,” Beigel said.
Beigel has never given a presentation like this one, but he is an experienced teacher.
“This comes fairly naturally for me and I have quite a bit to babble about when it comes to the business of recording music,” Beigel said.
Beigel is perpetually busy with producing and recording projects in the U.K., but admits the fast pace keeps him very happy. He has a long list of ongoing pursuits including “composing and producing a new music library consisting of British Glam Rock and Surf Pulp Fiction” and recording with South Bay’s top reggae artist.
“Creating music in the recording studio is definitely my favorite type of work. Crafting and completing a record is an intangible rush. I guess it’s all in the act of creating something from nothing,” Beigel said.
Beigel began recording music while he was still at Bradley. After graduation, he moved to Los Angeles, opened a studio and began doing recording sessions with anyone who was willing. He believes that students have to take advantage of all opportunities.
“Students have to take advantage of the technological advancements and invest in some home recording gear. Perhaps consider hiring an experienced engineer for a few tutoring sessions and just start recording your music. The rest will unfold naturally as you pursue your individual goals,” Beigel said.
When it comes to his interest in music, Beigel believes it is innate, and composing came naturally. There were no professional musicians in his family, but everyone has a little bit of experience with one instrument or another.
“My parents were avid music fans. As soon as I showed an interest, they were supportive,” Beigel said, adding that sometimes he still didn’t want to practice
He once received a synthesizer as a birthday gift and used it for hours on end.
“Music as a career, however, didn’t really dawn on me as an option until I was at Bradley,” Beigel said.