Jon Melcher

Audio Engineering

Jonathan Melcher is the chief engineer and studio complex operations manager for the Washington State University School of Music Recording Studio. He also currently teaches Audio Engineering I and II classes. An industry veteran, one whose time has been forged through a desire to learn and lead based on a love of recording and performance, Melcher is a professional audio engineer with live event production, recording, mixing, and mastering nearing 15 years of experience.

Professionally, Melcher most recently served as Technical Manager at the University of Idaho, overseeing all audio, video, and lighting production, as well as staff for events in the Kibbie Dome, Administration Auditorium, Pitman Center and various outdoor/indoor locations. Prior to that placement, Melcher occupied the role of Audio Supervisor at the University of Florida where he was responsible for all audio aspects in relation to the University of Florida Performing Arts Center; this includes the Phillips Center, University Auditorium and Baughman Center.

With an ear for state-of-the-art, Melcher took a position as Electro Acoustical R&D Engineer at 64 Audio (Vancouver, WA), Melcher working hand in hand with the R&D team to conceptualize new products and building prototypes. This includes the building revolutionary In Ear Monitors; he was part of a team that was responsible for design conceptualization, prototype testing, procedure, and programs.

From October 2015 through March 2016, Melcher was the Chief Audio Engineer for Monster Energy Supercross Circuit (Feld Entertainment) setting up all sound in stadiums across the country, utilizing company-owned audio and communications gear. During an International Tour with recording artist A Great Big World as Monitor Engineer/Tech, Jon was in charge of mixing monitors for an internationally renowned band on festivals such as Firefly, Calgary Stampede, Wireless Fest, Summerfest, Super Sonic Festival and Summer Sonic Festival.

Melcher was also Audio Engineer/Backline Tech with Studio Instrument Rentals (SIR) in Nashville, TN, in charge of mixing front of house and monitors for local/national touring acts in rehearsal spaces and backline tech for large/small festivals and shows, including Bonnaroo and Big Ears Festival.
Melcher cut his teeth as Front of House Engineer at the prestigious Rockwood Music Hall in New York City. During his tenure, he ran Front of House for 5 to 7 bands a night (averaging 1,500 shows per year), and was in charge of stage management, running sound for National/Local acts.

Prior to his acceptance into the Master II Level Recording Program from The Conservatory of Recording Arts and Sciences in 2010, Melcher worked as a Live Production Engineer with High Peaks Sound setting up sound systems and stages for concerts and festivals at various locations. He was also House Monitor Engineer at Northern Lights (now Upstate Concert Hall) in charge of stage management and running monitor mixes for National/Local acts.

An avid outdoorsman, Melcher is fond of fly fishing, rock climbing, hiking, and snowboarding. A multi-genre drummer, Melcher continues to create his own music as well as mix and master popular podcasts and local/national artists.