This week, AIM Ireland hosted the latest AIM Ireland Connects networking event at Camden Recording Studios, Dublin, focused on the production and studio sector. The evening was hosted by broadcaster and musician Dara Quilty, with a complimentary drinks reception supported by Jameson Ireland.
Panel discussion: opportunities and challenges in the studio sector
The evening kicked off with a panel conversation with leaders working across studios, engineering, and production in Ireland:
- Julie McLarnon (Analogue Catalogue)
- Aidan Cunningham (Mixing Engineer)
- Naomi Moore (CEO, Windmill Lane Studios)
- Simba Bianchi (Jungle Beam Studios)
- Alex Borwick (Grouse Lodge Studios)
The panel explored the realities behind the work: how teams build sustainable careers, how studios and independents can collaborate more effectively, and what needs to change to ensure the sector’s contribution is properly valued. Finance and long-term viability were recurring threads, alongside a clear appetite for stronger peer networks and more joined-up support.
Fireside chat with Tom Elmhirst
The centrepiece of the event was an in-depth fireside interview with Tom Elmhirst, a 17-time Grammy-winning mix engineer whose work spans three decades across projects by artists including Adele, David Bowie, Amy Winehouse, Lady Gaga, and Travis Scott. Now based in Dublin after relocating from New York, Tom spoke openly about process, decision-making, and how to stay creatively responsive from one project to the next.
Practical takeaways from the room
Across the discussion, a few themes stood out clearly:
- Voice first: Tom described the vocals as a frequent decision-maker when shaping a mix.
- Visual prompts can help: he referenced screening films with the sound off while mixing to find pace, contrast, and emotional movement.
- Inspiration is wider than music: books, art, and day-to-day life were cited as useful inputs, alongside resisting overthinking.
- Avoiding a fixed “sound”: Tom shared why he prefers not to be tied to a signature mix style, treating each record on its own terms.
AIM Ireland Connects exists to help members meet, share knowledge, and build working relationships across the independent sector. Keep an eye on member updates for future events in the series.