Quentin Andrianasitera: The Sound Alchemist Behind “Emilia Perez” Embarks on New Musical Adventures
Quentin Andrianasitera has always had an ear and a feel for the power of sound. From the age of six, when he first touched a piano, to his current position as one of the most promising sound engineers on the global stage, his journey has been one of precision, passion, and boundless creativity.
“Music and sound have always been part of my life,” Quentin reflects. “Starting with classical piano and then diving into jazz and blues with my dad, I realized early on that sound isn’t just heard, it’s felt.”
While his technical skills are indisputable, Quentin’s artistic sensibilities also set him apart. Years before he became a sound engineer, he spent six months in the French countryside with nothing but his piano, synthesizers, and cat.
“It was a creative retreat,” he explains. “Being disconnected from the world helped me realize my fascination wasn’t just in creating music, it was in shaping it, enhancing it, and bringing it to life through sound engineering.”
This deep-rooted connection to sound led Quentin to pursue his passion academically and professionally. He studied at EMC, a prestigious school in France, where he honed the technical skills that would serve as the backbone of his career.
“It wasn’t just about learning the tools. It was about understanding the science behind them. From signal flow to voltage calculations, EMC gave me the foundation to handle any challenge,” he says.
From Paris to the World’s Most Prestigious Studios
Quentin’s technical expertise quickly earned him opportunities in some of Europe’s most respected studios. After an internship at Midilives in Paris, he secured a position at RIFFX Studios in La Seine Musicale, one of the continent’s premier recording complexes. His talent and dedication soon saw him promoted from assistant to resident sound engineer.
“Working at RIFFX was transformative,” Quentin shares. “It was a chance to collaborate on a variety of projects and refine my skills in a high-pressure, high-expectation environment.”
Later, he joined the legendary Studios Saint Germain in Paris, where he worked with artists ranging from The Rolling Stones and Selena Gomez to Oscar-winning composer Alexandre Desplat.
Reflecting on these experiences, he notes: “Every session was a masterclass. Whether it was ensuring flawless sound for The Rolling Stones or navigating the intricate orchestrations of Alexandre Desplat, I learned to adapt, anticipate, and always aim for excellence.”
Weaving Sound’s Art and Science
For Quentin, sound engineering is as much an art as it is a science. “One of my most memorable moments was working with Alexandre Desplat,” he recalls. “His projects demand perfection, every technical decision must align with his artistic vision. It was both challenging and incredibly rewarding.”
Another defining moment in his career was recording sessions for the film Emilia Perez, a month-and-a-half-long project that required constant adaptability. “The technical setups were constantly changing, so we had to stay on our toes. It taught me the importance of flexibility and teamwork in delivering exceptional results,” he says.
Breaking into the U.S. Market
Soon to be based in the U.S., Quentin is embarking on a new chapter, collaborating with producer Andrew Wells and continuing remote projects with Studios Saint Germain. However, the ultimate goal remains the same: to push the boundaries of audio production while staying true to the essence of music and sound.
“Emerging technologies like immersive sound and AI are fascinating, but ultimately, the artist’s intention and emotion matter the most. My job is to capture that and make it resonate,” he says.
With a blend of technical mastery, creative vision, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Quentin is poised to make waves in the American music scene.
“Sound is more than a career, it is my life’s work,” he emphasizes. “Every session, every project is a chance to learn, grow, and create something extraordinary. The U.S. offers a chance to work with diverse artists and immerse myself in new workflows. This transition is exciting. It is a fresh challenge, and I’m ready for it.”