In a poll conducted by us on March 29th 2020 we asked what effects COVID 19 was having on the work and income of studio businesses around the world. The results show what can only be described as devastating with over 50% of all those polled expecting to lose 70% or more of their income.

The poll was taken by 1004 respondents and reveals how large the financial hit could be on those working in both music and post production.

In 2018 Sonic Scoop produced a comprehensive report “Industry Intel: 2018 Audio Engineer Salary & Jobs Report” giving data on the number of those working in the sector and their average salary.

The report drew from BLS data on how many Broadcast and Sound Engineering Technicians were working in the US in 2018, at that time it gave the number as 144,300 with an average salary of $43,660 per year.

If we took that data it would mean an average loss of $25,575.91 per person, multiplied across the sector this gives an eye watering total loss across the sector of over $3 billion in the US alone.

If this pattern was repeated throughout the industry and across the globe it would show a devastating hit to our sector.

One of the respondents to the poll, John Bowen said;

“Diversification has been a savior for me. ADR is suffering greatly. Sound Design and Podcasting are cranking. Also: Current DAPS + new mac pro = I'm doing some Atmos at home now. What I worry about is a few months down the road when no one has been able to produce anything to work on (The real pain is behind the curve); Though, animated work should see a pick-up (for obvious reasons!)”

The effects seem to be across all sectors and even those working in sectors such as short-form commercial work are being affected. Australian Matt Mackenzie-Smith said;

“I think here in Australia, there's definitely a sense of erring on the side of caution. Most AV production/projects have ceased. Which, after seeing this roll out in Europe, I am totally fine with. We're OK, but I do feel for the people that are living week to week with this and hope that we can all learn from and prevent something like this ever happening again.“

About 18% said their work has so far been unaffected, but even these felt that there may be issues affecting their income. Music producer Alex Picciafuochi said;

“I still have my clients but they are no longer in a hurry”

Help is available from various government and industry bodies but many are suggesting that it’s either a tiny amount compared to their actual income or hard to get, in some cases for the self employed it is impossible to get help with the current rules placed upon applicants.

Some industry bodies are working hard to support those working in the sector. Our advice is contact those in your country where you reside to see what help is available.