Meet Robert Alexander | Production Sound Mixer

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

Hi Robert, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
From the onset of my career in film, I’ve always aimed to start my own business. I thrive on diving head first into my endeavors, meticulously exploring every detail and nuance while continuously pushing boundaries. My ambition was to provide the industry with cutting edge technology and state-of -the-art sound equipment, benefitting not only my own productions but assisting others in their creative journey as well.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Growing up as the youngest in a family rooted in the film industry, I knew from a young age that I wanted to continue the tradition and follow in my father’s footsteps as a Re-Recording Sound Mixer.

My formal education in sound for film began at 22, under the guidance of my father, Gary Alexander, as I observed him mixing pre-dubs for feature films. It was only when my brother-in-law, Mark Koops, offered me a job on set that I discovered my passion for field mixing and recording. This realization led me to shift from post-production to production sound.

Unlike many aspiring to enter the film industry, I was fortunate to find the door already open. However, this opportunity came with its challenges, and it was crucial for me to fully commit and maximize the advantages presented to me from an early age. The journey has been demanding and continues to be so.

Working as a freelance Production Sound Mixer requires unwavering dedication and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. With technology evolving rapidly, staying ahead means continuously engaging new techniques and strategies, and consistently researching, testing, and mastering new equipment.

As my career picked up speed, the adventure began! I found myself traveling the world and working with like-minded individuals. Armed with curiosity and dedication, I flourished, always learning, exploring, creating, and fulfilling a lifelong dream. Some highlights of my career include journeying across the Middle East, capturing the awe-inspiring great migration in Tanzania, exploring the dense jungles of Indonesia, diving alongside white sharks at Guadalupe Island, and documenting sea pandas in the Arctic Circle.

Through my journey as a production sound mixer, I’ve gained a deep understanding of life, people, myself, and the world. I’m grateful for the friendships I’ve formed globally and the stories I’ve been able to tell through my recordings.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
For a seven-day trip focused on Los Angeles, here’s a suggested itinerary that includes a mix of cultural, culinary, and outdoor activities:

Kick off your Los Angeles adventure with a visit to Griffith Observatory. This iconic landmark offers stunning views of the Los Angeles skyline and a closer look at the stars. Explore the exhibits and catch a live show in the planetarium.

Head downtown to visit the Japanese American National Museum to learn about the rich history and contributions of Japanese Americans. Afterward, stroll through Little Tokyo and enjoy some of the best ramen the city has to offer.

Explore the Santa Monica Mountains. Choose a hiking trail that matches your fitness level and enjoy sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and Los Angeles basin.

Visit the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures to immerse yourself in the history and magic of film. The museum features exhibits on movie-making, iconic cinema artifacts, and works from prominent filmmakers.

Travel to San Pedro for a taste of local seafood at the bustling fish market. Enjoy fresh catches of the day and explore the harbor area, which offers additional attractions like the USS Iowa museum.

Experience the excitement of a professional soccer game in Los Angeles. Whether you’re watching LA Galaxy or LAFC, the vibrant atmosphere and passionate fans make for an unforgettable evening.

Use your last day to revisit any spots you loved or explore new ones. Consider visiting iconic places like the Getty Center, strolling along Venice Beach, or shopping on Rodeo Drive.

This itinerary gives you a well-rounded experience of Los Angeles, showcasing its diverse attractions and vibrant culture.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to my father, Gary Alexander, a re-recording sound mixer, for his unwavering support and mentorship throughout my 20-year career. My dream of working in sound for film began with my deep admiration for him and his work. Next, I’d like to express my gratitude to my brother-in-law, Mark Koops, an executive producer, who took a chance on a young, ambitious kid just starting out in the business and helped catapult my career to new heights. Finally, I’d like to thank Dan McCoy and Cico Silva for their friendship and guidance over the past decade.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexandersound_?igsh=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Other: https://www.instagram.com/_robstagram?igsh=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3208714/ (https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3208714/)