WCA #500 with Catherine Marks - From Architect to Producer, Fearlessness, Supportive Mentors, Managing Creative Conflicts, and Capturing the Immediacy of a Moment

Jul 15, 2024

Catherine Marks, a Grammy-winning producer based in London, shares her inspiring journey from architecture to music production. She reflects on her Australian upbringing, early musical influences, and pivotal moments in Dublin's vibrant music scene. Fearlessness and mentorship significantly shaped her career, including invaluable lessons from industry giants like Flood and Alan Moulder. Marks emphasizes the importance of capturing the immediacy of creativity over technical perfection while discussing how to manage creative conflicts and build essential industry connections.

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Episode notes

Intro

00:00 • 2min

Reflecting on 500 Episodes

02:22 • 6min

Reflections on Creativity and Craftsmanship in Audio

08:47 • 5min

A Journey Through Sound and Memory

13:30 • 18min

From Architecture to Audio: A Journey in Music Production

31:25 • 5min

Navigating Doubts and Embracing Determination in a Creative Transition

36:50 • 2min

From Architect to Producer: A Journey of Sound

39:04 • 13min

Navigating Success in the Music Industry

52:02 • 21min

Reflecting on Milestones and Introducing Innovative Audio Solutions

01:13:25 • 3min

My guest today is Grammy-winning London-based producer and mixer Catherine Marks, who has worked on projects for boygenius, Wolf Alice, and The Mysterines.

In this episode, we discuss

Upbringing in Australia
Early exposure to music through parents' record collection
Participation in a Yamaha piano course at an all-girls school
Development of interest in songwriting and record production
Studying architecture at the University of Melbourne
Taking a year out to work in Dublin
Introduction to Dublin's music
Immersion in live music and DJ nights in Dublin
Discovery of interest in music production and reverb
Transition from architecture degree to music production career
Learning about music production while working for Flood
Recording a song with Elastica, gaining Flood's attention
Fearlessness and willingness to take opportunities
Early advice from her father and
Support from the Dublin community
Early experiences in the studio,
Multitasking in various roles
Learning via observing, asking questions, and reading manuals
Development of skills and studio efficiency
Mentorship from Alan Moulder
Working with producers like Dmitry Tikovoy, Ben Hillier, and Flood
Importance of capturing the immediacy of a moment over technical perfection
Discipline to let go of awareness and move forward in projects
Managing creative conflicts and rising from unknown engineer to sought-after producer
Establishing connections with key individuals in the music industry
Importance of mutual understanding and communication in the recording process
Working with Alan Moulder and Flood, enhancing her career
Mutual respect and high expectations foster professional growth
Importance of enjoying projects and respecting colleagues
Prioritizing a balanced lifestyle over immediate success
Pressure to maintain career momentum and need for self-care to prevent burnout
Consistent commitment and passion for work
Experiences and reflections on winning a Grammy award
Highs and lows of industry recognition
Challenges of being away for extended periods during album work
Anticipation for future projects and collaborations

Matt's Rant: 500 Episodes and Pressing On

Links and Show Notes

Credits

Guest: Catherine Marks
Host: Matt Boudreau
Engineer: Matt Boudreau
Producer: Matt Boudreau
Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
Announcer: Chuck Smith