Ah, another Happy New Year, and with it comes the familiar sounds of wind howling, bells chiming, carolers singing (okay, maybe that was a week or two ago)…the echoes of laughter from friends and families gathered together…the crackling of a warm fireplace — the sounds, the sounds, the sounds.

Okay, I have sound on my mind, and here's why: We recently conducted a readership survey that asked almost 10,000 subscribers, chosen at random, if they are involved in audio production and/or equipment purchase. I was surprised at the results, not because I don't think we have audio readership, but more because I suppose I didn't realize how many of our readers have involvement in the audio biz on some level.

When we set out to create this magazine as the offspring of Lighting Dimensions and Entertainment Design, our goal was to cover all things in production that have a visual impact on the audience, mostly in live settings. So, was that the right strategy for us to take? I don't know, and it hasn't hurt us yet, but that's not really my point (yes, I'm getting there). The real question is: Is there a place for more extensive sound coverage in every issue of Live Design, as opposed to relegating that editorial to our Theatre Quarterly? And, just as importantly, should that coverage include more than the theatre sound community to encompass concert, event, and club sound, among other areas?

The bottom line is that the results of our survey are statistically significant, but I'd like to hear more from you. Should Live Design consider the production industry as a whole, grouping into one all design, programming, teching, and manufacturing of sound, video, lighting, set, staging, and rigging? Is this the place for them all to be covered side by side? Tell me your opinion at msandberg@livedesignonline.com.

Oh, don't forget it's that time of year for making resolutions, and I've made one: I've decided to give back a little by joining The ESTA Foundation's Behind the Scenes Committee. Read my update on all of the latest Behind the Scenes activities on p. 12. Remember, it only takes a nanosecond for you or one of your colleagues to become sick or injured and have your whole life suddenly change. Then what happens? Ask Michael K. Maag (see “Letters to the Editor,” p. 8). He'll tell you.

A very Happy New Year to you and yours.