Charlie Rodgers, a graduate of SIT is a proud Southlander and an advocate for the arts. After completing his Bachelor of Audio Production in 2007 he decided to move to Wellington to pursue a career in music. In five years, Charlie went from being a complete unknown to a recognised name within the New Zealand music industry; working as a live/recording engineer for artists like Che Fu, The Kora Brothers, Tiki Taane, L.A.B, Electric Wire Hustle, Mara TK, Ria Hall, Louis Baker and many more.
In 2017 he wrote and delivered the live sound & lighting module for Massey University while teaching part time at Whitireia Institute of Technology. Having recently relocated to Invercargill with his family and currently tutoring audio production at Southern Institute of Technology, this summer Charlie is also touring with L.A.B supporting their new self-titled album with performances at Rhythm & Vines and Northern Bass; support slots with Six60, Tiki Taane, Salmonella Dub, Trinity Roots, and Ladi6, as well as their own list of shows throughout January and February.
Next year as part of his professional development, Charlie will be studying a Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Management along with the New Zealand Certificate in Adult and Tertiary Teaching. He is also aiming to organise events which bring the aforementioned artists to Invercargill.
“I still had a lot more to achieve in Wellington, but have no regrets returning home and teaching at the place it all started. Studying audio production at SIT helped me develop a passion for music and diversity, something that has made me a better person. Learning about the equipment, how to use it effectively, and understanding how the science of sound applies to everyday life are all things I now do on a daily basis.”
If Charlie could offer any advice it would be to work hard and never give up, set goals and stick to them, listen to criticism and never talk back to someone trying to offer advice, especially if they have the experience to back it up.
“I’m proud of everything that I’ve achieved. Nikola Tesla once said: “If you want to find the secrets of the universe, think in terms of energy, frequency and vibration.” Words I live by.”