MEYER SOUND & THE UNIVERSITY OF DERBY

A world-leading partnership in sound innovation

For more than four years, the University of Derby has collaborated with Meyer Sound, one of the world’s leading pioneers in professional audio, to deliver advanced, industry‑led education for the next generation of audio and live events professionals. Now entering its second three‑year training cycle, the partnership continues to evolve, strengthening Derby’s position as a UK leader in acoustics, live sound, and system design.

Rooted in shared values of innovation, education, and global industry impact, this collaboration plays a vital role in Derby’s mission to equip students with the skills, experience, and professional networks needed to thrive in today’s rapidly advancing audio landscape.

Developing global talent through specialist training

The partnership sits at the heart of Meyer Sound’s Global Education Programme, providing structured, high‑level training delivered by internationally respected educators. This close collaboration has helped shape the company’s modern blended‑learning model, giving Derby students early access to new training materials, methodologies, and technologies before their global rollout.

Training sessions are co-ordinated by Robyn Bykofsky, and this month’s course was delivered by Merlijn van Veen, one of the most influential voices in contemporary sound system design and optimisation. The teaching not only elevates the student learning experience but also connects learners directly with the standards and expectations of a global industry.

In addition to his work with Derby students, Merlijn van Veen will deliver a joint lecture with the Institute of Acoustics / Audio Engineering Society, further strengthening Derby’s professional profile and deepening its connections with the wider acoustics and audio engineering communities.

A partnership delivering real‑world impact

Together, Meyer Sound and the University of Derby are shaping an education ecosystem built on:

• World-leading technical expertise
• Cutting-edge research
• Hands-on industry experience
• Access to global professional networks

This integrated approach ensures Derby students graduate not only with advanced technical knowledge but with the professional insight, experience, and connections needed for successful careers in live sound, system design, acoustics, and audio technology.

Looking ahead

As the second three-year cycle begins, the partnership will continue to expand through:

• Enhanced on‑site and online Meyer Sound training
• Increased exposure to world‑class audio educators
• Greater integration of professional system‑design methodologies into the curriculum
• Expanded research and outreach through the HELA Initiative and international industry networks

Together, Meyer Sound and the University of Derby are helping shape the future of professional audio - ensuring the next generation of sound engineers enters the industry with exceptional skills, responsible practice, and a globally informed perspective.

Connected leadership in safe, sustainable live events

The Meyer Sound partnership sits within a wider ecosystem of Derby-led innovation in sound, acoustics and hearing health. A key example is the HELA Initiative (Healthy Ears, Limited Annoyance), a global certification programme co-developed by researchers in Derby’s Electro‑Acoustics Research Lab (EARLab) alongside international experts to promote responsible sound management across live events. Launched on World Hearing Day 2025, HELA supports venues, promoters, and technicians in improving the audience experience, whilst promoting hearing health, best practice and raising awareness of the importance of the impact on not just those at an event but the wider community. Meyer Sound were an early supporter and founding partner of the HELA Initiative.

HELA’s global influence became clear in 2026 when Biffy Clyro’s ‘Futique’ tour became the first international tour to achieve HELA Certification, incorporating evidence‑based system design, crew training and continuous sound monitoring. Students from Derby’s Sound, Light and Live Event Engineering course had the unique opportunity to observe tour rehearsals, gaining first‑hand insight into large‑scale production and certified safe‑listening practice. The initiative continues to expand internationally, reinvesting all profits into further research to support safer, more sustainable live event environments.