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Rockapella
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Gleb Ivanov, pianist
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Music in the Air VI
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Neil Berg's 100 Years of Broadway
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Sound Judgement
Jim Breitmeier, a 2005 graduate of Clemson’s Performing Arts program, believes his choice to major in Production Studies in Performing Arts was a sound choice. “The program provided the comprehensive background I needed to start my career,” he said from his office at the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Arts (MASS MoCa).
As the center’s in-house sound engineer, Jim is responsible for sound reinforcement and sound design for a wide variety of performances that take place at the art center located in North Adams, Mass.
“In addition to running sound for dance, music, theatre concerts, and film presentations, I also assist resident artists who come the center with projects in various stages of development.”
A leading presenter and developer of new works in all arts forms, MASS MoCa is noted for showcasing cutting edge theatre, visual arts, film, dance, music, and new media. Since joining the staff last year, Jim has had his hands and ears involved in variety of projects. Take for example the work he did with South African composer Phillip Miller.
“He was here with four South African vocalists working on a new cantata based on testimony given to the Truth and Reconciliation Committee after apartheid,” Jim said. “I recorded his rehearsals and did sound reinforcement for his performances here.”
Currently, he is working with contemporary dance choreographer Jody Oberfelder, who is in residence this winter. This means working 12-hour days. “During a residency, we can work from nine in the morning to nine at night,” he said. “The days are long, but it’s absolutely amazing to experience the development of a new work.”
MASS MoCa presents about 60 live presentations each year. A New York City gala that featured experimental performance artists Laurie Anderson and a live performance by the Alloy Orchestra during the screening of Alfred Hitchcock’s silent film Blackmail are among some of the more interesting events Jim has worked.
In addition to working for a year as the Brooks Center’s production intern, Jim was active behind the scenes during his student days, getting plenty of hands-on experience. “Getting your hands dirty is one of the best aspects of the performing arts major at Clemson.” Theory has its place, but hands-on work is what builds a resume and a successful career.”
When asked how it feels to live in Western Massachusetts, the Florida native, who is an active skier, said he loves it. “We haven’t had much snow this year, but this part of New England is rich with art. There is always something to see and do. Among MASS MoCA, the area is home to the Tanglewood Music Center, the summer of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Jacob’s Pillow Dance, America’s first and longest festival dedicated to dance, and many other cultural institutions.
Jim is quick to add that he wouldn’t be at MASS MoCa if it weren’t for the training he received in the Department of Performing Arts and the Brooks Center. “Working at MASS MoCa allows me the opportunity to work with many of the world’s best artists and my Clemson background made this chance possible.”
