DONAVEN WITT
Milwaukee
Summary
Dedicated Educator, Musician, and Audio Engineer with 10+ years of experience in the music and entertainment industry. Dependable and passionate with the ability to provide flexibility in order to achieve a common goal in a efficient manner with the desired result. Through music we can inspire to aspire.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Specialty Team Member
Whole Foods Market Inc
02.2025 - Current
- Analyzed customer preferences, adjusting offerings to improve sales and client retention.
- Collaborated with management on merchandising strategies to optimize product displays.
- Managed inventory levels, ensuring freshness and quality of specialty products.
- Developed loyal clientele by consistently delivering outstanding service and engaging in friendly conversation.
General Production Hand
IATSE 18
03.2024 - Current
- Assist in the required tasks for each given event.
- Safely Load and Unload touring act equipment from Semis
- Work with audio, lighting, visual, and SFX, as well as carpentry, as needed.
- Worked several venues including but not limited to The Fiserv Forum, The Pabst Theatre, The Panther Arena, Summerfest Grounds, The Riverside Theatre, Alpine Valley, etc.
Director of Music
Milwaukee Montessori School
08.2023 - 11.2023
- Chose appropriate music based on size and skill of ensemble and venue limitations
- Managed rehearsals for up to 200+ performers
- Organized music programs based on timelines, musical genres and specific requests
- Accomplished desired effects with musical pieces, skillfully interpreting works and rehearsing regularly to perfect performances
- Shaped musical performances with gestures to set standards for tempo and volume
Music Teacher
Milwaukee Public Schools
07.2022 - 05.2023
- Maintained learning-focused classrooms and kept student conduct aligned with school standards and district policies
- Adapted teaching techniques to accommodate students with different learning styles or disabilities
- Taught students musical techniques using direct demonstrations
- Diversified classes using multiple genres of musical literature and performances
General/Assistant Audio Engineer
Criteria Recording Studios
12.2021 - 06.2022
- Managed data backups of all recorded material to prevent loss or damage
- Represented company with professionalism, following clear and established metrics for quality and client relationship management
- Recorded and mixed audio for various projects, including music albums, podcasts, and commercials
- Troubleshot technical issues that arose during recording or mixing processes
- Edited audio tracks using digital audio workstations DAWs like Pro Tools, Logic, or Ableton Live
- Assisted in microphone placement and selection based on specific recording needs
Lead Audio Visual Technician
University of Miami - WATSCO Center
11.2021 - 06.2022
- Trained new technicians on use of audiovisual equipment and related software applications
- Facilitated communication between clients, team members, and third-party vendors involved in delivering AV solutions
- Handled live sound mixing using console settings to blend multiple sound sources
- Troubleshot problems with signal flow, acoustics and other audio-visual issues in different environments
Marine Corps Musician
United States Marine Corps
09.2013 - 07.2017
- Contributed to successful music recordings, consistently performing at peak level every time
- Performed live at concerts, festivals, and other events to entertain audiences
- Adapted playing style to suit different genres, such as jazz, classical, or pop music
- Monitored compliance with copyright laws when acquiring new resources or reproducing content
- Supervised library staff members and volunteers, providing guidance and training as needed
- Established partnerships with community organizations to enhance outreach efforts
Education
Diploma - Audio Technology
SAE Institute of Technology
North Miami Beach, Florida11.2021
Master of Music (M.M.) - Music Performance
Central Washington University
Ellensburg, WA07.2020
Bachelor of Music (BM) - Music Performance
University of Wisconsin - Whitewater
Whitewater, WI05.2019
Diploma - Music
Naval School of Music
Norfolk, VA09.2014
Skills
- Adaptability and Flexibility
- Musician Coaching
- Analog Gear Knowledge
- Music Production Software
- Recording Techniques
- Live Sound Engineering
- Audio Mixing
- Instrumental Expertise
- Cross-functional coordination
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Effective collaboration
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Specialty Team Member
Whole Foods Market Inc
02.2025 - Current
General Production Hand
IATSE 18
03.2024 - Current
Director of Music
Milwaukee Montessori School
08.2023 - 11.2023
Music Teacher
Milwaukee Public Schools
07.2022 - 05.2023
General/Assistant Audio Engineer
Criteria Recording Studios
12.2021 - 06.2022
Lead Audio Visual Technician
University of Miami - WATSCO Center
11.2021 - 06.2022
Marine Corps Musician
United States Marine Corps
09.2013 - 07.2017
Master of Music (M.M.) - Music Performance
Central Washington University
Bachelor of Music (BM) - Music Performance
University of Wisconsin - Whitewater
Diploma - Music
Naval School of Music
Diploma - Audio Technology
SAE Institute of Technology