About
Me
Hey, I’m Max.
I’m a freelance music professional based just outside Liverpool in the UK, specialising as a composer and audio engineer. I pride myself on bringing a signature blend of originality, creativity, and technical expertise to every music production project I work on.
With a master’s degree in electroacoustic composition, my music has resonated with audiences on platforms including BBC, CNN, and Channel Four. I’m proud to have my projects archived as part of the British Library’s ‘Sound and Moving Image Collection,’ which highlights the lasting impact of the craft I’ve dedicated my career to.
‘Here (But Not Here)’,
by Max Richardson
My background
Music has been a major part of my life for as long as I can remember. I started learning the piano at around ten, which led me to develop a deep appreciation for the technical craft behind music composition.
As a classically trained pianist with an ABRSM Grade 8 qualification, I’ve built a strong foundation in music theory and performance that underpins everything I create. Once I began composing my own music, I discovered the raw, emotional power that music is able to convey like no other art-form.
My formal training eventually led me to pursue a master’s degree in electroacoustic composition, which saw me honing both my creative vision alongside developing technical expertise in audio production.
Throughout my career, I’ve worked on a wide range of projects, combining my classical foundation with cutting-edge audio production techniques.
Whether I’m composing an original score or perfecting a final mix, my ultimate focus is delivering polished, professional work that reflects years of dedication to mastering my craft.
Equipment & studio
I work from my acoustically treated studio space located just outside Liverpool. Over the years, I’ve carefully crafted my setup, featuring a curated selection of industry-standard tools to ensure I can deliver the highest possible quality in every project.
Studio Monitoring:
I rely on Neumann KH 120 A studio monitors, which provide a phenomenal level of detail for audio work, helping me achieve accurate sound representation in my space.
These monitors are powered by converters from Merging Technologies Hapi, delivering exceptional AD/DA signal clarity.
To fine-tune my listening environment, I also utilise Sonarworks SoundID Reference room correction software for the final touches of accurate, neutral audio in my studio.
Software Tools:
My setup includes a wide-reaching selection of top-quality audio software tools, such as FabFilter, iZotope, Universal Audio, Soundtoys, Native Instruments, Arturia, Black Rooster Audio, and Spitfire Audio. These tools allow me to experiment with sound design and enhance my creative process.
Instruments:
I work with a collection of analog synthesisers, electric and acoustic guitars, and my beloved vintage Cramer upright piano from the 1950s, each contributing its own unique character to my compositions.
While I’ve previously had the pleasure of performing on some amazing grand pianos, there is something truly warm and intimate about this specific piano that resonates with me. It adds a depth and personal touch to my work that I find irreplaceable.
Microphones:
For dialogue work, I rely on the Audio-Technica AT-4040, while the AKG C451b is my go-to for capturing instruments, ensuring that every sound is recorded with clarity and precision.
When I’m working in the field, I use a Zoom H5 recorder to capture field recordings, and for live work I swear by the Shure SM58 for its reliability and clarity.
ready to reach out?
If you’re working on a project you think I can help with, I’d love to hear from you.
Feel free to reach out at the link below, and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible.