Nia Bowers
Image credit: Jeff Perreca
What makes a sound truly memorable? Is it merely the notes and rhythms, or is it the soul behind the mixing board? For Sal Ojeda, a three-time Emmy-nominated Re-Recording Mixer and Supervising Sound Editor, the answer lies in a kaleidoscope of cultural influences, musical passion, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in sound.
Born in California and raised in Guadalajara, Mexico, Sal’s journey into the world of sound began at just 11 years old, when he found his rhythm in the vibrant streets of Guadalajara, where he fell in love with the drums. Private lessons with local drumming legends ignited a passion that would shape his future. Joining his father’s band, Sal learned the art of sound recording, blending the rich cultural melodies of his upbringing with a burgeoning love for music.
After high school, he honed his skills at Glendale Community College in Arizona before earning a coveted scholarship to Berklee College of Music. There, he discovered the alchemy of post-production, transforming raw audio into something magical. Graduating with honors, he set his sights on Los Angeles, ready to turn his dreams into reality.
Image credit: Jeff Perreca
Since 2010, Sal has woven his sonic magic on projects for some of the most esteemed directors in the industry. His most recent project, Bono: Stories of Surrender, directed by Andrew Dominik, premiered at Cannes and will be streaming on Apple TV+ by the end of May. This show is notable as it is the first feature-length show for the Apple Vision Pro. Sal also contributed to Man on the Run, directed by Morgan Neville, an amazing documentary about Paul McCartney and Wings. His work with big-name directors continues with Pavarotti, directed by Ron Howard, and Three Thousand Years of Longing, directed by George Miller.
In addition, Sal has a deep appreciation for independent cinema, dedicating the best of his abilities to films like Mistura and Trees of Peace. Sal has also made significant contributions as a Dialogue Editor on popular shows like The Cleaning Lady and Gotham Knights.
From the soulful documentary The Makings of Curtis Mayfield, directed by H.E.R., to his diverse array of projects, Sal has proven that sound is not just an accessory to visual storytelling; it is its heartbeat. His accolades speak volumes: an MPSE Golden Reel Award from Echo in the Canyon and a Canadian Screen Award for Once Were Brothers: Robbie Robertson & The Band. These honors symbolize Sal’s commitment to elevating every project he touches.
Image credit: Jeff Perreca
In addition to his cinematic achievements, Sal has collaborated with an impressive roster of musical icons. From Pink to Billie Eilish, and Imagine Dragons to Andrea Bocelli, his fingerprints are all over the soundtracks of our lives. His role in the Pre-recorded Music Programming team for prestigious awards shows, including the Oscars and the Emmys, showcases his versatility and dedication to the craft.
As a voting member of the Cinema Audio Society and the Television Academy, Sal Ojeda continues to shape the future of sound. He is also an affiliate member of the Motion Picture Sound Editors, ensuring that his voice is heard in the ever-evolving landscape of audio production. If you’re eager to learn more about the world of sound, catch Sal as a moderator on a sound panel at the Los Angeles Latino International Film Festival (LALIFF) on Saturday, May 31st, at 11 AM. It’s a chance to dive deeper into the artistry and technique that define his work.