Today we’d like to introduce you to Orlando Torres.
Hi Orlando, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
About 14 years ago, I was in my late 20s. I had a great-paying job. I spent my weekend playing guitar with my band in the local music scene. Music had always been my refuge and inspiration but performing on stage wasn’t for me. I wanted to be behind the scenes. I was always intrigued by the sounds and textures of recorded music. The tone on guitars, the effects on vocals, the recording studio seem like a magical place, and those who recorded and produced my favorite music were my true heroes. So I quit my job to pursue sound engineering and never looked back.
Understanding and connecting with the people I work with is what got me to where I am today. Artist and musicians pour themselves into their music, which often puts them in a vulnerable place. My role as a sound engineer is to create a safe, judgment-free environment for my clients. I try to understand their vision and to be supportive of their creative decisions. Without a doubt, this is the most important thing I do. There is also a technical aspect to my work. Choosing the right microphone for a singer or the best space to record a drum set is important. I obsess over studio equipment. I learn it and understand it intimately because I want my clients to release the best sounding recordings. This approach has worked for me. It has kept me busy doing what I love.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
There have been struggles along the way. At first, it’s very difficult to make a full-time living doing what I do. It takes years to build a good reputation. Dedication is a must! Later on, the struggles were different. I’ve missed loved ones’ birthdays and anniversaries because I was too busy working. I’ve gone months without a day off. I’ve seen many friends burn out and move on to a different career. At the same time, I feel completely fulfilled by my occupation. I love working because I love what I do.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a highly motivated sound engineer. I’m passionate about my craft and have many years of experience. I am known for my studio work. I’ve been fortunate to have worked with legendary musicians, including Abraham Laboriel, Joey DeFrancesco, Alex Acuña, Jimmy Branly, Justo Almario, percussionist Ron Powell, Lee Rocker of the Stray Cats to name a few. But I am equally proud of my work with up-and-coming local bands and artists.
I have also worked on television productions that include an Emmy nominated song for The Young And The Restless and ADR cutting for Law & Order. Throughout 2019, I worked with Kobe Bryant at his Granity Studios as a recording engineer for Kobe’s ESPN Detail and as an audio editor for The Punies podcast.
Beyond the studio, I am an active live sound engineer with experience in all genres including orchestral classical music and house of worship.
We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
As I mentioned before, 14 years ago, I left a great paying 9 to 5 to pursue a career as a sound engineer. Many have told me that that was a risky move. But I don’t see myself as a risk taker. I like to think that most of what I do, I do because deep down inside I recognize my capabilities. The problem is that most of us fail at recognizing our capabilities and therefore fail to act on our ambitions. The riskiest move is to be idle, in a comfortable place, without pursuing our dreams.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: mymixingpropaganda.com
- Instagram: @orlandosoundman
- Other: madmansound.com
