Jamie Bird

What did you do before joining dBs?  

I graduated from dBs with a first class degree in ‘Music and Sound for Film & TV’ in the inaugural year of the course. Furthermore, I have been involved in the production/organisation team of ‘Samphire Festival’, which was awarded ‘Best Small Festival’ in the UK between 2017-2018.

Bird Noire has been my musical output for the last 10 years, featuring two studio albums, being interviewed by the BBC, having Radio 1 champion a single release, as well as gaining publishing opportunities on US TV, featuring on shows such as ‘Search Party’ and ‘UnREAL’.

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Why did you first get into live sound engineering?

It became apparent that my creativity and direction was leaning more towards that of film music. The transition/film industry appealed greatly to me, as it seemed that the music became the main directive, and created a truer sense of artistry for the composer. Fundamentally, I love film, and have been inspired by composers such as Vangelis (Blade Runner), Mica Levi (Under The Skin), Geoff Barrow (Ex-Machina/Annihilation) . These artists showed me a musical direction that excited and engaged me. Allowing the music to support a much greater creative vision. I am of the mind that composition for screen seems to be the last true bastion of sonic artistry.

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Any special areas of interest?

As a mega fan of synth music in Film/TV, ‘Stranger Things’ has been a genuine new love of mine. This does follow on from artists such as Wendy Carlos (The Shining), John Carpenter (Halloween) and the seminal, aforementioned, Vangelis (Blade Runner). I am also a big fan of ‘French Electro’, artists such as Daft Punk, Justice, Kavinsky & Carpenter Brut - who have all inspired me greatly along the way. Big, bold, cinematic & stylised - undeniably cool. I just can't get enough of that sound!

What do you love most about what you do?

It is a genuine honour and a privilege to interact with so many talented students. To be in a creative space like dBs is such a gift. Being able to converse about all things music, with like minded individuals is something I cherish, sincerely.

I have to talk about the exhibitions, too! This will always be a significant milestone for the development of the students' education. The chance to showcase their work, utilising fantastic facilities, such as our Lecture Theatre, to impart ideas and learn from others in the process. This is where I get to experience the raw unfiltered talent at dBs. It is a very exciting experience and one that really highlights the magic of the course and the institution.

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Tell us about your proudest career moment?

Genuinely, It would be my new role at dBs as care-taker Course Leader for Music and Sound for Film & TV, which although temporary, is something I take great pride from.

In regards to music, there are a few… Having my score for ‘Muntjac’ feature across film festivals in the Summer of 2023. Attending the screenings was a unique and profoundly proud moment for me.

Being interviewed by the BBC and performing live on air whilst promoting the second album for Bird Noire. This was remarkably nerve wracking, and was an unprecedented experience, however, something that I will cherish and remember forever.

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What do you get up to outside of your role at dBs?

I am a keen footballer! Committing myself to a team every week and battling it out in two highly competitive leagues!

I enjoy seeing family and friends, wholesome walks, dinners out and dinners in. I enjoy my home comforts, so I am often watching something new or old and getting some quality time with loved ones.

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Tell us something our students may not know about you?

I have two things…

Firstly, I have grown up always loving gaming. The Playstation evolution has been quite close to me through my formative years. Most notably the ‘Metal Gear Solid’ series. Who doesn’t love a bit of slow paced ‘tactical espionage’? I still game today, and think it is invaluable for my process of escapism when needed after a busy week.

I also used to be a prominent vocalist in choirs growing up. Having performed solos in St.Paul’s (London) and St. Mark’s (Venice), singing pieces ranging from Bach to Mozart and beyond! - Although, I fear now, that my ‘countertenor’ capabilities have been ravaged by the unforgiving sands of time!

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