Speaker: Orvar Thorvaldsson [Senior Audio Lecturer - SAE Institute] 

Are you an aspiring producer who’s ready to take your tracks to the next level but unsure how to polish them for professional release? Do you feel lost when it comes to mastering, or wonder if your home setup can produce label-ready results? This workshop, led by Orvar Thorvaddlson—Senior Audio Lecturer at SAE Institute and experienced mixing/mastering engineer—will break down the often-misunderstood art of mastering, making it accessible for bedroom producers at any skill level.

In this practical workshop, you’ll learn how to transform your mixed tracks into industry-standard masters using Ableton 12. This workshop will start by exploring why modern mastering is about more than just making your track loud—it’s about clarity, balance, and readiness for different playback environments.

You’ll also discover why labels demand professionally mastered tracks and how mastering can elevate your productions, even on a tight budget. Orvar will also touch on some more advanced skills with the use of programmes such as Wave Labs. 

Orvar Thorvaldsson (Senior Audio Lecturer - SAE Institute) 

Orvar is a Senior Audio lecturer at SAE Institute Glasgow.

Outside SAE Orvar works as a mixing and mastering engineer. His work spans a multitude of genres, ranging from house and techno, over to indie rock and traditional music.

SAE Institute

Established in 1976, SAE Creative Media Institute provides creative media programmes to about 10,000 students at 40+ campuses globally. SAE is recognised for providing students with access to the best industry equipment and facilities, employing teaching staff with strong industry experience and delivering hands on teaching and learning in small class environments. The Institute engages with industry to develop curriculum that is relevant to local and global workforce needs. Work placements and internships are embedded in SAE programmes are pathways to employment.