With Oasis being one of the biggest cultural college fests in the country, the Department of Sounds has the added pressure of maintaining a certain standard of quality during the shows. The coordinator, Aradhya Khandelwal, shed some light on how they work to achieve this level and the culture they have developed in the department.

Pre-Oasis work includes getting equipment in order and ensuring that the juniors know enough about the intricacies of the work to meaningfully contribute, and to be able to handle shows on a strict schedule. The major work during Oasis is ensuring that the events happen smoothly and on time, while also maintaining the level of quality, so that the audience can enjoy to the fullest.

Scheduling issues and handling multiple events at once is a common hurdle faced by Sounds during Oasis. Procuring equipment is also an arduous process, with the Department having to go through a lot of hoops to convince the Institute or SU for it.

Aradhya also shared their preferred working style for maximum efficiency. “I prefer to delegate and let the juniors take decisions on their own at times. Micromanaging such a complex set-up is difficult and usually unnecessary, so I let them try things on their own, choosing to intervene only when absolutely needed. They also enjoy the added responsibility,” he remarked.

Sounds also remains focused on its vision to be on the top of its game. “Above all, we aim to ensure that the show happens. Sometimes, external factors try their hardest to prevent that, but we try our best. If there is no sound, the show cannot happen, period. Only once we ensure that the audience can hear the performers, can we look to make them sound better, to enhance the experience they have,” Aradhya said.

The culture of the Sounds is also very distinct. Equal contribution and total commitment is expected from every member. Everyone is allowed to speak their mind, and people’s opinions are judged on the basis of their merit only. There’s no hierarchy, and the only difference within members is that of experience and knowledge. This has ensured that the Department functions like a well-oiled machine.

When asked about his experience as coordinator, Aradhya said that in Sounds, it is not very different to being a member, as everyone is expected to contribute equally and maintain work ethic. The only difference lies in the fact that he has to handle people’s complaints and questions himself.

The Department of Sounds, having a strong vision coupled with a good working style, is poised to achieve the level of quality expected, if not exceed it. We wish them a smooth-running Oasis and look forward to the shows.