Gregory F. Shearer

I've mixed over 3,000 songs for TV and commercials... I've developed a systematic way of mixing that I love sharing with my students. Gregory F. Shearer , Audio Production Instructor , The Art Institute of Atlanta

Was there a defining moment when you knew you were destined to become a creative professional?

At age 11 a guitar was put into my hands and I never looked back. At that moment I just knew that music and audio were my passions for the future.

How do you weave your professional background into the classroom experience?

After 20+ years of being an audio professional, my experiences and skill set are an invaluable asset to students–both in teaching them about the technological side of the industry and the importance of being aware of all of the advancements as well as passing my programmatic experience onto them.

What class assignment exemplifies your approach to teaching and mentoring?

My favorite and most fulfilling class is Audio Mixing. Over the years, I’ve mixed over 3,000 songs for TV and commercials. Through all of this, I’ve developed a systematic way of mixing that I love sharing with my students. It helps them learn this creative art in a very practical way.

How does collaboration contribute to students’ success—particularly when students from various programs work together?

Cooperation and teamwork are crucial part of a student’s success – learning how to give and share opinions and work together to successfully complete projects doesn’t just contribute to their success as a student, but will be invaluable to them as professionals.

What’s the most important thing you impart to students to help them succeed in class and the real world?

First and foremost, I make sure that they learn the necessary skill sets and know it backwards and forwards. Second, I consistently reinforce how important a sense of professionalism is, even as a student, because this is when they develop their working habits. Third, I try to instill in them an understanding of how integrity and maintaining relationships is crucial to success.

Anything else?

I’ve written music for 78 TV shows and commercials for AT&T, BMW, Conoco, Dell, Footlocker, GNC, Kelloggs, Ford, Kraft, Mountain Dew, HBO, Showtime, etc. I like to share these experiences with my students to show them what kinds of interesting opportunities are out there for them if they work hard.