Welcome to Marcus Ward's Portfolio

Downloadable PDF

Resume

PROFILE

Extensive Audio Production Experience: Analog, digital and software-based recording systems; Broad classical, jazz and contemporary composition and music theory knowledge.

EDUCATION

Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis - Indianapolis, IN; 6/2010 - 8/2012

Master of Science in the areas of computer-based music technology, multimedia and interactive design and multimedia production techniques is the focus of this program.  Overall GPA is 3.980. 

Thesis:  The Development of an Enhanced Sound Design Curriculum

Millikin University - Decatur, IL; 8/1997 - 12/2001

Bachelor of Music in Commercial Music included instruction in the areas of recording engineering, video production, and music composition with MIDI implementation and trumpet performance.  Focusing on techniques for recording, mixing and mastering for multiple genres and situations.

Internship at OmniSound Studios - Nashville, TN; 7/2001 - 11/2001

Optimized internship experience at premier recording studio utilizing skills as a
technician and expanding knowledge and experience on cutting edge technologies.
Duties included daily maintenance of the studio and facilities, duplication andtransfers, setup and teardown technician and second engineer.

EMPLOYMENT HISTORY

Digital Media Mentor - Convergence Acadamies - Columbia College Chicago, IL; 11/2013 - present

Professional in the field of digital media who brings experience and interest in media-integrated learning to assist teachers in becoming connected educators.

Currently positioned at Donald L. Morrill Math and Science School working along with the music instructor.

Freelance Web Developer - Indianapolis, IN, Dallas, TX; 2009 - present

Website design and development using Adobe Dreamweaver, Photoshop and Flash. Actionscript 3.0 and HTML5 experience.

Assistant Sales Manager/ Internet Sales Manager/ Assistant Operation Manager  – Guitar Center Arlington Heights, IL; 08/2004 - 08/2009

Provided supervision of five commissioned sales departments and 20-30 employees.  Duties including sales training, recording software troubleshooting and training, product training and technical support on Macintosh and Windows based computers.
Initiated online sales program for high end and vintage musical equipment to domestic and international buyers. 
Consistently assisted the operations manager with inventory control and training of new employees.
Assisted large-volume buyers with the selection of appropriate recording and musical equipment utilizing knowledge of specialty market.
Supported operations manager with loss-prevention strategies and implementation of strategic planning in order to prevent profit loss.
Directed inventory management for large volume store and maintained inventory records via electronic ordering system. 

Sound Designer – Freelance, Chicago, IL; 2004 - 2009

Provided sound design creation and support to a variety of private audiovisual companies, specifically creating sound-related material for several educational and promotional videos.  Performed, recorded and mastered all compositions created for clients. Composed music in a variety of styles in order to appeal to a wide range of consumers based on advertising directives.

Music Director - The Oaks Academy - Decatur, IL; 8/2003 - 6/2004

Established a music appreciation program of study that infused age appropriate music history and music theory into the curriculum for students ranging from preschool to eighth grade.

Formed Middle-school Choir and provided choral music direction to 25-30 students on a weekly basis and conducted four performances throughout the school year.

Trumpet Instructor - Indianapolis,IN; 1/2009 - 8/2009

Instruction of beginner to intermittent students in trumpet performance and music theory.

Studio Musician/ Engineer – Indiana, Illinois; 1997 – 2010

Experienced in all aspects of the recording studio with work as the lead engineer, assistant engineer and settings technician.
Performed in the studio as talent on trumpet and bass.  Genres covered include Classical, Jazz, Funk, Rock and Punk.

SKILLS

Computer based recording and editing
Software DAW proficiency – Apple Logic, Avid Pro Tools, Sony Vegas Video, Steinberg Cubase, Cakewalk Sonar 
Microsoft Suite
Proficiency on Apple and PC computer formats
Proficiency on Trumpet; other instruments include bass, guitar and keyboards
MIDI Editing
Music Composition
MAX/MSP/JITTER – working knowledge
Firelight Technologies FMOD Designer