Nicholas Simone: Master Sound Designer with Deep Roots in Staten Island
In the world of professional audio, few names stand out with the depth of experience and impact that Nicholas Simone brings. A native of Staten Island, New York, Simone has spent over two decades fine-tuning the sounds behind countless theatrical productions, concerts, and studio recordings. His career has taken him from the boroughs of New York City to prestigious institutions such as the Apollo Theater, the New Jersey Repertory Company, and numerous other respected organizations. Whether it’s live stagecraft, studio engineering, or educational mentoring, Simone’s signature is excellence.
This article delves into the career, education, and achievements of Nicholas Simone, highlighting why he is one of the most respected and versatile figures in the sound design industry today.
Early Life and Education
Growing Up in Staten Island
Nicholas Simone grew up in Staten Island, where his passion for music and sound took root early. Surrounded by a community rich in arts and performance, he was drawn to the audio world not just as a hobby, but as a calling.
Formal Education
To sharpen his skills, Nicholas enrolled at Wagner College, also located in Staten Island. He studied Music Performance, laying the foundation for his future in sound production, audio mixing, and music composition. During his time at Wagner, he also participated in campus radio as a DJ and Radio Personality with WCBG – Wagner College Broadcast Group, helping to elevate student broadcasting into a full-fledged public station.
In 2010, Nicholas furthered his technical knowledge by obtaining a Pro Tools Operator Certification from ProMedia Training, one of the most respected programs in the industry for audio engineering and digital recording techniques.
Professional Journey
Launch into the Audio Industry
Nicholas Simone’s career began in earnest in the early 2000s. One of his earliest roles was as a Shift Supervisor at Starbucks, where he honed his organizational and interpersonal skills—qualities that would later prove invaluable in high-pressure audio environments.
Essence Studios and Fenix Studios
In 2008, Nicholas took on the role of Recording/Mixing Engineer at Essence Studios. There, he was responsible for handling client sessions, managing audio equipment, and mixing projects using Pro Tools, quickly earning a reputation for his ability to create polished, radio-ready sound.
By 2010, he expanded his studio work by joining Fenix Studios in New York City as Head Recording/Mixing Audio Engineer. His work included recording and mixing sessions on high-end systems, such as the SSL 9000J Console and Pro Tools HDX, delivering premium results for artists across various genres.
Apollo Theater: A Legacy of Sound
One of the most prestigious chapters in Nicholas Simone’s career began in May 2019, when he joined the legendary Apollo Theater in Harlem as a Sound Designer and A2. Known worldwide as a landmark in African-American performance history, the Apollo is a pinnacle for any audio professional. Simone’s duties included stagecraft, signal flow, audio board operation, and live production — all executed with finesse and technical mastery.
At the Apollo, he not only contributes to the impeccable live sound quality of its shows but also ensures the seamless integration of audio systems for both new and legacy productions.
Theater Contributions
New Jersey Repertory Company
Since August 2020, Nicholas has been an integral part of the New Jersey Repertory Company, working as a Contract Sound Designer. Based in New Jersey, this organization is known for its commitment to original works and groundbreaking productions. Simone brings his expansive skill set—ranging from audio boards to microphones, signal flow, and technical services—to ensure every production meets the highest auditory standards.
Various Theater Companies
Beyond his work at high-profile venues, Nicholas Simone has worked extensively as a Freelance Sound Designer for various theater companies across the Greater New York City area. Over the past 13+ years, he has contributed original soundscapes, recorded dialogue, implemented audio effects, and managed complex equipment setups. His freelance reputation is stellar, consistently bringing professionalism, creativity, and technical savvy to every collaboration.
Roundabout Theatre Company
Since 2006, Nicholas has also been a Sound Design Teaching Assistant with the Roundabout Theatre Company, working with NYC public schools. His role involves mentoring students in sound cue creation, equipment estimation, and hands-on live sound operations. This commitment to education highlights Simone’s dedication not only to mastering his craft but also to giving back to the next generation.
Special Projects and Roles
AVI-SPL and MTV Networks
In 2022, Nicholas briefly worked with AVI-SPL as an Audio Visual Technician, contributing to both in-person and hybrid production environments. Before that, he served as a Production Assistant with MTV Networks, managing camera crew support and setup logistics.
Music Instruction and Directing
From 2004 to 2013, Nicholas taught music lessons at the Staten Island Conservatory of Music, handling multiple instruments and preparing students for performances. He also served as a Musical Director for Sundog Theatre in Staten Island, teaching chorus and band to NYC DOE elementary schools. These roles allowed him to blend his performance abilities with pedagogy—an increasingly rare combination in today’s fast-paced production world.
Skills and Strengths
Nicholas Simone’s wide-ranging skill set includes:
- Pro Tools Expertise
- Audio Consoles and Live Mixing
- Microphone and Equipment Management
- Signal Flow and Troubleshooting
- Technical Services and Quality Control
- Projection Systems and Broadcasting
- Client Relations and Team Leadership
His ability to adapt between live performance, studio environments, and classroom settings is a testament to his versatility.
Why Nicholas Simone Stands Out
What sets Nicholas Simone apart isn’t just his experience—it’s his consistency, passion, and precision. Whether he’s fine-tuning a live concert at the Apollo Theater, crafting an emotional soundscape for a dramatic play, or mentoring young students in public schools, Simone operates with a level of professionalism that elevates every project he touches.
He remains deeply connected to his Staten Island roots, often returning to work with local theaters and educational institutions, and serves as a bridge between local talent and world-class production values.
Conclusion
From local conservatories to internationally respected stages, Nicholas Simone has built a reputation as one of the most skilled and reliable sound designers in the industry. With roots firmly grounded in Staten Island, a rich educational background from Wagner College and ProMedia Training, and hands-on experience at venues such as Fenix Studios, Essence Studios, the Apollo Theater, and New Jersey Repertory Company, Simone continues to lead the way in professional audio design.
As live performance continues to evolve with technology, Nicholas Simone remains a vital part of the conversation—balancing tradition with innovation and always ensuring that the audience hears not just the performance, but the story behind the sound.
