Tom 'TK' Killoran (L.V.C.M Hons)

Sound Designer and Engineer London, UK

Live Audio | Design | Music | Networks

Eager to tackle new challenges and expand my horizons, I'm always on the hunt for the next big thing in our ever-evolving industry. With a solid background in audio, music, and the wizardry of networks, I'm like a Swiss Army knife for any team diving into the intricate world of musical theatre and its increasingly computer-driven setups.

Armed with a comprehensive toolkit of technical skills in audio networks and systems—spanning the live scene, theatrical productions, and even those floating gigs at sea—I'm not just your run-of-the-mill tech geek. My roots in music and the arts infuse a creative spark into every project, ensuring I bring more to the table than just cables and consoles.

Planning, designing, and fabricating? That's my bread and butter. Whether it's providing spot-on advice or crafting bespoke solutions, I'm all about precision and innovation. Always keen to push the envelope, I'm here to sprinkle a bit of my unique flair and enthusiasm into your team, broadening our collective horizons and injecting fresh ideas into every venture.

Experience

Qsys Designer

Globe Trotter Live

As the lead Q-SYS designer, I programmed and deployed AV solutions across 43 venues with 11 cores, enhancing both functionality and user experience. A key challenge was managing 16 channels of background music (BGM) while allowing flexible venue assignments. I optimized this using multicast audio and a server-client script system, enabling users to toggle and rename streams while minimizing network load.

I also designed intuitive UCIs with custom CSS and Adobe Suite graphics, ensuring a cohesive look. Beyond audio, I handled signal flows, video/relay control, and created iPad mixers for technicians managing pop-up performances. This project required a deep understanding of Q-SYS programming, networked AV, and user experience design.

AV System Commissioning

TU Dublin

was contracted to commission the AV systems across multiple classrooms at TU Dublin. Each room was equipped with an Extron system, but several teething issues were affecting functionality. My role involved systematically inspecting each room, identifying the root causes of the problems, and providing detailed reports outlining the issues and recommended solutions. This process ensured that the university’s AV infrastructure operated reliably, enhancing the learning environment for both students and faculty.

System Integrator

B360

My partnership with B360, a specialist in lighting hire, generator hire, and TV studio lighting installations, blossomed during the unique challenges of lockdown. Since then, I've embraced the role of System Integrator, focusing on the intricacies of TV studio lighting setups. At B360, my responsibilities include designing and meticulously planning the lighting systems that bring productions to life. My deep understanding of how various pieces of equipment communicate and interact is crucial in this role, ensuring seamless integration and optimal performance of all components. This expertise not only enhances the visual storytelling of our clients but also underscores the seamless behind-the-scenes orchestration I bring to each project.

Sound Designer and HOD

Atlantis Events

As the Head of Department for sound design with Atlantis Events, I lead the creation of vibrant soundscapes for the world's leading gay cruises. Leveraging top-tier equipment from Meyer, L-Acoustics, and d&b, along with precise 3D CAD planning, we tailor immersive audio environments to a dynamic mix of Classic Disco, 80s, 90s, today's hits, and EDM. Our elaborate truss setups not only support this premium sound quality but also visually underscore the grandeur of each event, ensuring unforgettable celebrations under the stars.

Qsys Programming

AIDA Cruise Line

Since February 2022, as the Qsys Programmer for the AIDA Cosmos, my role extends beyond the initial commissioning to the meticulous fine-tuning of Qsys systems for the ship's diverse entertainment spaces. My commitment is not just to enhance the audio quality but also to ensure the systems are intuitively accessible to end-users. By concentrating on the graphical user interface (GUI) and user-system interaction, I aim to create a seamless and user-friendly experience. This allows performers and technical teams alike to easily control and adapt the audio environment, ensuring each venue not only reaches but surpasses its acoustic potential. My work continuously evolves, focusing on delivering sophisticated control, customization, and ease of use, enriching the auditory experience for all aboard the AIDA Cosmos.

Show Installation and Audio Engineering

AIDA Cruise Line

My collaboration with AIDA not only spans the breadth of new show installations and audio engineering across its fleet, such as on the AIDAPerla and AIDALuna, but also demands a deep engagement with creative teams. In this ongoing role, I program automation into DiGiCo consoles and fine-tune EQ for singers and live instruments, all with the dual aim of ensuring show consistency and simplifying operations. Recognizing the diverse levels of operators' knowledge and experience, I carefully balance the system's flexibility with the need to streamline functionalities. This approach facilitates both the innovation of fresh, compelling content and the safeguarding of AIDA's esteemed standard of onboard entertainment. By strategically restricting certain complexities while maintaining operational freedom, I contribute to an environment where technical excellence meets creative expression, continuously enhancing AIDA's entertainment landscape.

Sound Supervisor & Cast Change Operations

AIDA Cruise Line

In my role as a Sound Supervisor with AIDA, I oversee cast change operations, a task that has taken on new dimensions with the challenges presented by Covid. Working onboard, I ensure the smooth transition of cast members, adapting to the unique circumstances to maintain the continuity and quality of onboard entertainment. This role demands flexibility and meticulous coordination, skills I continuously apply to meet the evolving needs of AIDA's entertainment lineup.

Sound Consultant - Celebrity X Edge

Royal Caribbean Cruises

Commissioning the Celebrity X Edge was a standout moment in my freelance career, allowing me to fully leverage my broad knowledge across various audio systems and technologies. In this project, I was instrumental in implementing and fine-tuning the ship's sophisticated audio setup, ensuring every corner of this innovative vessel was audibly exquisite. My diverse expertise in sound engineering was put to the test, adapting to the unique acoustics and technical demands of luxury cruising. This experience not only underscored my capability to navigate complex audio landscapes but also affirmed my role in enhancing the auditory experience for guests aboard the Celebrity X Edge, setting a new benchmark in cruise ship entertainment.

Sound Designer

Celebrity X Cruises

Since October 2016, my freelance journey with Celebrity X Cruises has allowed me to dive deep into the heart of maritime entertainment. Not only have I produced shows from scratch for Celebrity Cruises, but I've also traversed the entirety of their fleet, refining, simplifying, and remixing production shows and entertainment. My focus has been on enhancing the guest experience through superior sound quality and ensuring long-term consistency across the board. This role has challenged me to combine creativity with technical prowess, ensuring every cruise offers an unforgettable auditory journey for its guests.

Corporate Freelancer

Pure Audio

In my freelance work with a leading corporate audio and visual company, I've had the privilege of delivering sound for a prestigious list of clients, including Sodexo, Waitrose, Microsoft, AA, Shell, Carphone Warehouse, Boots, The Salvation Army, and The CO-OP. What sets this experience apart is the opportunity to work under Christian's leadership. His relentless pursuit of the latest technology, fresh ideas, and cutting-edge equipment provides an unparalleled platform for me to stay ahead in the industry. This environment not only enables me to excel in my craft but also ensures that each project is as enjoyable as it is innovative. Working with Christian and the team has been a highlight, continually pushing the boundaries of what's possible in corporate audiovisual presentations.

Sound Designer

Imagination

Collaborating with Imagination, a company renowned for its innovative marketing solutions, I played a key role in the European tour for the launch of the Ford Mustang Mach-E. Imagination’s projects, especially those in partnership with Ford, are characterized by their creativity and impact, and the Mach-E tour was no exception. This project allowed me to leverage my audio expertise to enhance the immersive experience of unveiling Ford's groundbreaking electric vehicle across various European locales. My involvement with Imagination underscores my adaptability and skill in delivering high-quality audio solutions for high-profile, innovative events.

BSS Sound Programmer

HMS Videlio

On Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of The Seas, one of the world's largest and most innovative cruise ships, I was tasked with programming and installing all BSS sound processing systems. Stationed in France, I meticulously designed and programmed the sound systems for each of the ship's diverse entertainment venues. Following the installation onboard, I conducted thorough testing and fine-tuning to ensure the audio quality met the highest standards of clarity and performance. This project showcased my expertise in audio system design and programming, ensuring guests on the Symphony of The Seas enjoy a world-class auditory experience.

System Technician

Russell Watson & Aled Jones Tour

I was system technician for this tour. The tour was around small arenas, concert halls and theatres. My role was to measure the room in the sound software, hang and tune the speakers and tie into any in-house equipment. Then maintain an even sound throughout the venue for the performance.

Freelancer

Major Tom

Freelancer

Adlib

Freelancer

BME AV

Live Freelancer

Audio Tech UK

Within Audiotech UK, my freelance work primarily supports the vibrant live music scene, alongside engagements with corporate clients. My portfolio includes the renowned Isle of Wight Festival, the Russell and Aled Jones In Harmony UK tour, and the impactful Global Make Some Noise event, but to name a few. These experiences underscore my commitment to excellence in audio delivery for high-profile events in the music industry.

Corporate Freelancer

PSS

A corporate audio and visual company which I often freelance for. Clients I have done sound for include; Herbalife, Forrero, Santander, The Body Shop, Travis Perkins, Dixons, Halfords.

Corporate Freelancer

Audio Alliance

Monitor Engineer

Russell Watson – Only One Man Tour

Sound Design, FOH Engineer, Tour Manager

Collabro

Working with Collabro, the celebrated winners of Britain's Got Talent, presented a multifaceted opportunity where I took on the roles of Front of House Engineer, Sound Designer, and Tour Manager. This engagement not only highlighted my versatility within the live performance industry but also allowed me to fine-tune my skills across a broad spectrum of responsibilities. My role ensured that every aspect of Collabro’s tour—from the crystal-clear sound that carried each harmony to the seamless logistics behind each performance—was executed to perfection, contributing to an unforgettable experience for both the group and their audience.

FOH Engineer

Blackpool Rocks 2014

FOH/Monitoring Engineer

Russell Watson Candlelight Tour

Production Manager/FOH Engineer

West End Women Tour

FOH Engineer

Rhydian Roberts 'One Day Like This' Tour

Production Manager/FOH Engineer

Kerry Ellis Tour

Video Engineer/Hippotizer Operator

Lytham Proms

Advanced Promotors Rep

Rod Stewart Stadium UK Tour

Production Manager

Russell Watson 'Only One Man' UK Tour

Head Sound and Light Technician

Royal Caribbean International

Liberty of the Seas; Saturday Night Fever the Musical

Head Sound and Light Technician

Royal Caribbean International

Rhapsody of the Seas; Centrum WOW!

Sound Design and SFX Design

The Production - Acorn Antiques

Head Sound and Light Technician

Royal Caribbean International

Liberty of the Seas; Saturday Night Fever the Musical, ‘NAHA Rock Legends Cruise’

Assistant Production Manager

Haigh Hall Live

Sound Design and FOH

Sweeney Todd

Sound Technician

Royal Caribbean International

Voyager of the Seas

Freelance Sound Designer and Engineer

Freelance

Like A Virgin Theatrical Tour (Sound Design)
GHD ‘Choose Your Destiny’ Tour (Sound, Lights, Visuals)
Production of Billy Elliot The Musical (Sound Design, Engineering, SFX Design)

Education

Lancaster University

BA in Music Technology, Minors in Music and Graphic Design

Victoria College of Music, London

Diploma of Licentiate in Organ Teaching

I am a licentiate to the Victoria College of Music, London with honors.

St Mary's Catholic Sixth Form College

Sixth Form

A-Level: ICT, B; Maths, C; Physics, C

Victoria College of Music, London

Diploma of Associate in Organ Playing

I am an associate to the Victoria College of Music, London in Electronic Organ Playing.

Cardinal Allen Catholic High School

High School

GCSE:
ICT, A*
Maths, A
Double Science Award, AA
English Language, A
English Literature, A
Music, A
Graphics, A
Religious Education, A
History, B

Musical Achievements

Electronic Organ Playing

In Electronic Organ Playing I have achieved:

Theory of Music – Grade Five
Diploma of Gold Medalist
Diploma of Silver Medalist
Grades 1 – 8

Awards

2015

Nominated for FOH Engineer of the year, TGI Awards

Clients

Russell Watson (Monitors) Collabro (Sound Design, Monitors, FOH) AJ Brown Jonathan Antoine Kerry Ellis Rhydian Roberts Chubby Checker (Cruise Ship FOH) Jimmy Somerville (one-off Monitors) Jack Jones (Cruise Ship FOH) Chesney Hawkes (one-off Monitors) 5ive (one-off Monitors) East 17 (one-off Monitors) Vengaboys (one-off Monitors) Starsailor's James Walsh (one-off Monitors) Marti Pellow (one-off Monitors) PSS (Production Support Services) Celebrity X Cruises Royal Caribbean Cruises Pure Technical Services Audio Alliance BME AV Ltd Audio Tech UK B360 Atlantis Events NCL Cruises

Specialties

Qsys Level 2 Certified

Skills

DiGiCo Consoles Midas Consoles Yamaha Consoles Digidesign Consoles Pro Tools Logic Pro Max/MSP BSS London Architect Smaart Q-Lab Meyer LCS and D-Mitri Adobe Photoshop Adobe InDesign Adobe Illustrator Cubase