Meet Dave Garnish | Founder of Garnish Music Production School

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dave Garnish and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dave, what do you attribute your success to?
The most important factor behind the success of Garnish Music Production School is the fact that our instructors are actively engaged in the music industry today, rather than relying on past experiences. This ensures that our students receive the most current, relevant, and practical education possible. Our small, dynamic team allows us to be incredibly agile; we can quickly make decisions and adapt to the rapid changes in the music industry. This flexibility is crucial in an era where technology and trends evolve at a breakneck pace.

In contrast, many older institutions are stuck in their traditional methods, often teaching outdated techniques on obsolete equipment. While these schools may have historical prestige, their inability to keep up with industry advancements can leave students with skills that are no longer applicable in the modern music production landscape.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I was got into the BRIT School for Performing Arts and Technology through a guitar audition, as I was outside of the catchment area. During that period, I was also deeply involved in London’s pirate radio scene, particularly with Don FM. In 1995, I founded Blah Parties in a joiner’s factory on Pitfield Street, influencing the cultural landscape of Shoreditch, London to what it is today. My journey into sound engineering began when Sir George Martin hired me at Air Lyndhurst Hall. From there, I advanced to the EMI Studios Group, which includes The Townhouse, Abbey Road, and Olympic Studios. During my time there, I collaborated with artists such as Janet Jackson, Madonna, Björk, All Saints, and Massive Attack, and was lucky enough to work with renowned producers from Andrew Lloyd Webber to Nellee Hooper. In 2001, I signed a songwriting publishing deal with Universal Music UK.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’d want to give them a mix of local charm, entertainment, and relaxation. We’d start our mornings at Republic of Pie, enjoying their incredible coffee and pastries while soaking in the cozy, artsy vibe. From there, we’d take leisurely strolls around the NoHo Arts District, exploring the eclectic mix of galleries, street art, and unique boutiques that give this neighborhood its vibrant character.

One day, we’d venture to Griffith Park for a scenic hike, maybe on a clear day, even making it up to the Griffith Observatory for stunning city views. For lunch, a stop at Porto’s Bakery is a must for their Cuban sandwiches and pastries.

Evenings would be all about enjoying North Hollywood’. We’d have dinners at local favorites like Sushi Nishi Ya. After dinner, catching a live music show at El Tejano.

A day trip to Santa Monica and Venice Beach would be a fantastic way to break up the week. We’d have breakfast at Blue Daisy Café before spending the day at the beach, riding along the coast on a bike. Dinner at Back on the Beach Cafe..

For some cultural immersion, a visit to The Getty Center would be on the agenda, where we’d wander through stunning art collections and beautiful gardens. Shopping at NoHo West would offer a mix of trendy finds and local flavors, perfect for a laid-back afternoon. We’d also take some time to relax around Toluca Lake, perhaps renting a paddleboat.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Appu Krishnan, because of the way he balances running Garnish LA and Loudboy Music Production and Publishing. The synergy is amazing; you’ll find many songwriters and producers on the LoudBoy roster are former Garnish students.

Website: https://edu.garnishmusicproduction.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garnishmusic

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/garnish-school-of-sound

Twitter: https://x.com/garnishmusic

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/garnishmusicproduction/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0KiCULFbgNULoRvef0WkYA

Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@garnishmusic