They spend time listening to all types of music and usually learn to play at least one instrument. Training in audio engineering also is helpful because sound designers mix and record sounds and dialogue. Some technical schools and community colleges provide formal training, but most sound designers learn audio engineering skills on the job. Sound designers also need to learn the basics of computer hardware and software to predict how their compositions will sound to the player. Some arcade speakers, for example, distort certain pitches and tones.
Many sound designers have a bachelor's degree in music.
They study music theory and composition. Some have education in film scoring. BLS has no data on sound designers. Many sound designers are contract workers who charge a fee for every minute of music they complete. A few receive royalties if the soundtrack is released as a separate CD or as part of a television score.