Michael Rivera
New Orleans,LA
Summary
Music industry professional with 15+ years experience from the artist, production, logistical sides of the industry. Advocate for teamwork, communication, and keeping it cool during high stakes environments.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Backline Technician
The Backline Company
New Orleans, LA
04.2021 - Current
- Backline technician for a combined 25+ festival and cruise stages.
- Safely pack, transport, set up, break down musical equipment.
- Troubleshooting / maintenance of gear to assure it is properly functional for artist(s).
- Monitored timelines and adherence to schedules of respective event.
- Assist Drum Department manager with prep, inventory, and maintenance tasks.
Touring Drummer and Studio Musician
Self-employed
New Orleans, LA
05.2012 - Current
- Live and session drummer for various Pop, R&B, Rock, Hip Hop artists.
- Meeting needs of artist(s) by executing appropriate artistic choices, recording technique, microphone selection, instrument tuning, and performance.
- Notable appearances include performances at New Orleans Pelicans games, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, Stubb's, ACL LIVE, and more.
- Combined 6 months touring experience.
Sound Engineer
Self Employed
New Orleans, LA
03.2026 - Current
- Front of House engineer for various small clubs and private events
- Knowledge of patching, microphone selection, placement, and techniques for live mixing.
- Experience with Behringer and Midas consoles.
Backline Technician
Tank and The Bangas
08.2023 - 09.2023
- Backline Technician for a series of festival fly dates including performances at The Gorge (WA), One Fine Day Fest (Philly), Music at The Intersection (STL), and more.
Driver / Assistant Tour Manager
Big Freedia
08.2021 - 10.2021
- Pack gear and safely transport artist(s) and crew to respective locations in a timely fashion.
- Display and oversee sales and inventory of merchandise.
- Fulfill tasks of the TM when requested; ensuring the stage is set to artist's specifications to allow for an on-time performance, artist settlement, hotel check-in, etc.
- Full U.S. tour
Driver / Merchandise Manager
MSPAINT
11.2023 - 11.2023
- Pack gear and safely transport artist(s) and crew to respective locations in a timely fashion.
- Display and oversee sales and inventory of merchandise.
- 1 week regional run
Stagehand
Rhino Staging
New Orleans, LA
08.2018 - 03.2020
- Set up and dismantled stage, audio, and visual equipment efficiently for arena and stadium events.
Assistant Manager/Talent Buyer
Gasa Gasa
New Orleans, LA
04.2017 - 03.2020
- Negotiated contracts with agents, ensuring favorable terms that work for all parties.
- Knowledge of national and local talent to curate diverse lineups for events.
- Implemented creative marketing campaigns to drive ticket sales.
- Managed venue calendar and event scheduling.
- Handled settlements with tour managers/artist(s) post-event.
Point of Sale Technician
Best Ring
04.2024 - Current
- Manage POS systems at music festivals, ensuring timely setup, functionality, maintenance, and breakdown.
- Troubleshoot technical issues promptly to minimize disruptions.
- Coordinate with organizers and vendors to align POS systems with specific needs.
- Record inventory of equipment.
Door Staff Manager
Gasa Gasa
New Orleans, LA
04.2014 - 04.2017
- Oversaw door staff operations, enhancing security protocols and elevating customer service standards throughout the venue.
Teacher
School of Rock
New Orleans, LA
08.2021 - 03.2024
- Led engaging drum lessons for youth of all skill levels (ages 8-17), directed student ensembles, and created a supportive environment for musical growth and creativity.
- Mentored aspiring musicians, providing guidance on technique, theory, and performance, contributing to their overall musical development.
- Offered keyboard lessons to beginner-intermediate students.
Merchandise Manager
Madd Merch
10.2018 - Current
- Maintaining inventory, sales, and display of merchandise at various festivals (Voodoo Fest, Austin City Limits).
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Music Performance
Southeastern Louisiana University
Hammond, LA05.2021
Skills
- Strong attention to detail
- Works well under pressure
- Time management
- Multitasking and organization
- Written/verbal communication
- Equipment repair and maintenance
- Recording techniques
- Live sound engineering
- Digital audio workstation
- Valid driver's license and passport
- Clean driving record
Timeline
Sound Engineer
Self Employed
03.2026 - Current
Point of Sale Technician
Best Ring
04.2024 - Current
Driver / Merchandise Manager
MSPAINT
11.2023 - 11.2023
Backline Technician
Tank and The Bangas
08.2023 - 09.2023
Driver / Assistant Tour Manager
Big Freedia
08.2021 - 10.2021
Teacher
School of Rock
08.2021 - 03.2024
Backline Technician
The Backline Company
04.2021 - Current
Merchandise Manager
Madd Merch
10.2018 - Current
Stagehand
Rhino Staging
08.2018 - 03.2020
Assistant Manager/Talent Buyer
Gasa Gasa
04.2017 - 03.2020
Door Staff Manager
Gasa Gasa
04.2014 - 04.2017
Touring Drummer and Studio Musician
Self-employed
05.2012 - Current
Bachelor of Arts - Music Performance
Southeastern Louisiana University