Hello! I’m Michael Sommerville, a multimedia technology producer, composer and sound designer with more than 20 years of experience blending music creation, audio engineering and software development. I’ve built real-time audio/video engines, e-commerce platforms, managed a record label and delivered chart-topping releases, always pursuing the intersection of artistry and technology. I’m passionate about creating engaging audio experiences and optimizing metadata and rights management for artists and businesses alike. I excel at coordinating cross-functional teams, automating workflows and aligning creative and technical requirements to deliver high-quality projects on time and within budget.

Michael Sommerville

Hello! I’m Michael Sommerville, a multimedia technology producer, composer and sound designer with more than 20 years of experience blending music creation, audio engineering and software development. I’ve built real-time audio/video engines, e-commerce platforms, managed a record label and delivered chart-topping releases, always pursuing the intersection of artistry and technology. I’m passionate about creating engaging audio experiences and optimizing metadata and rights management for artists and businesses alike. I excel at coordinating cross-functional teams, automating workflows and aligning creative and technical requirements to deliver high-quality projects on time and within budget.

Available to hire

Hello! I’m Michael Sommerville, a multimedia technology producer, composer and sound designer with more than 20 years of experience blending music creation, audio engineering and software development. I’ve built real-time audio/video engines, e-commerce platforms, managed a record label and delivered chart-topping releases, always pursuing the intersection of artistry and technology.

I’m passionate about creating engaging audio experiences and optimizing metadata and rights management for artists and businesses alike. I excel at coordinating cross-functional teams, automating workflows and aligning creative and technical requirements to deliver high-quality projects on time and within budget.

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Experience Level

Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate

Language

English
Fluent
French
Advanced

Work Experience

Owner & Director at Beech Recordings
January 1, 2016 - Present
Founded and manage an independent record label and publishing company with a roster of 10 artists, overseeing the entire release lifecycle from A&R to marketing and distribution. Designed and implemented efficient workflows for asset management and production pipelines, including automated database updates for mechanical and performance rights. Negotiated contracts, managed budgets and coordinated with artists, engineers and distributors to deliver releases on time and within budget. Achieved multiple Top 20 dance/electronic releases and reached #6 on Beatport’s Top 10 Deep Tech chart, with recent releases generating 3,000+ streams and 90% new listeners. Ensured accurate metadata and rights assignments (ISRCs, ISWCs, SOPROQ/SOCAN registrations) to support sales, royalties and legal compliance.
Toronto East Examinations Coordinator at Royal Conservatory of Music
January 1, 2020 - December 31, 2023
Coordinated all practical and theory examinations for the Toronto East centre, scheduling exam dates, liaising with instructors and students, and ensuring facility readiness. Sourced and negotiated a new examinations venue, reducing annual costs by C$46,000 while improving equipment quality. Acted as the primary liaison between students and the Conservatory, ensuring adherence to exam requirements and standards.
Freelance Recording Artist & Sound Designer at Self-Employed
January 1, 2014 - Present
Produce, compose and mix original music and sound design for commercial projects, films and interactive media. Utilize advanced synthesis techniques and custom tools (MAX/MSP, MSP plug-ins, VST development) to create unique sonic palettes. Manage project timelines and deliverables, collaborating with directors and editors to ensure audio synchronizes seamlessly with visual content.
Web Developer & E-commerce Architect at Waxtherapy.ca
January 1, 2001 - December 31, 2004
Built one of Canada’s first online record stores featuring real-audio samples for every track and real-time payment processing. Hand-coded a dynamic, database-driven e-commerce platform using HTML, JavaScript, PHP, MySQL and PGP encryption, enabling secure transactions and audio previews. Secured distribution contracts with major US, Canadian and UK suppliers, expanding inventory beyond competitors’ catalogues.
Lead Back-End Developer at Bluebarn Interactive
January 1, 1999 - December 31, 2000
Led a team of junior developers in creating scalable back-end solutions using Active Server Pages (ASP) for high-traffic websites. Collaborated with designers and front-end developers to integrate server-side functionality and ensure seamless user experiences.
Lead Programmer & Network Architect at Sliq Media Technologies
January 1, 1998 - December 31, 1999
Developed an automated batch file encoder in COM/C++ that recorded and encoded video streams while extracting metadata for database storage. Created a real-time audio encoding engine and accompanying front-end application, forming the core technology behind the company’s streaming platform, now known as Harmony Hub. Managed project timelines and cross-functional teams, ensuring on-time delivery and integration of new audio technologies into client products.

Education

B.Mus., Saxophone Performance & Computer Programming for Music Applications at McGill University
January 1, 1995 - December 31, 1998
Graduate Studies (Visiting Student) at University of Toronto
January 1, 2000 - December 31, 2001

Qualifications

Certified Educator
January 11, 2030 - May 15, 2026

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Software & Internet, Education, Professional Services