Why I Teach
Since I began teaching at the New York Film Academy Burbank (NYFA) in 2022, I have been delighted to help future filmmakers enhance their understanding of film and television sound. I strive to show my students that mastering these fundamentals and understanding the history of sound will significantly improve the quality of their films. With over 30 years of experience in Hollywood, I have worked as a sound designer and editor on hit television shows such as *Ancient Aliens*, *Unsolved Mysteries*, *The Curse of Oak Island*, and *Penn and Teller: BS*. Additionally, I have contributed to independent features including *Bunker* (2023), *Cinnamon* (2023), and *Terror on the Prairie* (2023), as well as thousands of film trailers and commercials for major titles like *Spider- Man*, *Jumanji*, *The Hunger Games*, *Black Widow*, and *Dune 1,2*.
In 2001, I founded 2496 Sound and Music, a publishing company that provides custom music and sound design for theatrical trailers and commercials. I currently represent over 30 composers and sound designers from around the world. Alongside teaching, I continue to do freelance sound design and editorial work on independent films and trailers. Teaching has always been a passion of mine, inspired by the many teachers who have positively influenced my life. I was fortunate to begin this journey in 2022 at NYFA, and the last seven semesters have been incredibly fulfilling. I am grateful for the opportunity to mentor the next generation of filmmakers.
In my classes, I start with a reel showcasing the best of film sound, featuring films that inspired my career in this exciting industry. We then discuss the fundamentals of sound physics, including wave motion, phase, digital signal processing, and acoustics. I aim to make these abstract topics accessible and show students how they impact their film projects. In subsequent classes, we explore the top software packages used in Hollywood studios, with a focus on Avid Pro Tools. Over the 15-week semester, we cover best practices for improving film sound, delving into dialogue editing, ADR, noise reduction, music theory and editing, working with composers and music supervisors, sound design, and SFX editing. We conclude the semester by learning the art of mixing, guiding students through each step of sound production to ensure a professional outcome. Effective communication and understanding each student's needs are essential aspects of teaching. At the beginning of each semester, I ask students about their backgrounds and aspirations to tailor the class to their goals. For those aiming to direct and produce films, I emphasize the importance of understanding sound and communicating effectvely with sound professionals. For those pursuing a career in sound, we delve deeper into theory and practice.
I am continually inspired by the younger generation's innovative use of technology to solve problems and tell compelling stories. To keep the class engaging, I incorporate a variety of teaching methods, including clips, sounds, hands-on demos, and workshop time. In future classes, I plan to discuss the impact of AI on the industry and my students' careers, exploring both the benefits and challenges. I will also introduce more material on emerging surround sound technologies like Dolby Atmos and Ambisonics. Teaching has been the thrill of my life, and I look forward to guiding the next generation of filmmakers. I hope to one day hear their names announced at the Oscars or the Emmys. This new generation is smart and strong, and I am excited to see what they create next. Lenny L. Jones MPSE Sound Design Instructor Glendale, CA