Sound- 1 a : a particular auditory impression : TONE b : the sensation perceived by the sense of hearing c : mechanical radiant energy that is transmitted by longitudinal pressure waves in a material medium (as air) and is the objective cause of hearing...
Design- the arrangement of elements or details in a product or work of art...
definitions from: http://www.m-w.com/
Sound
Design for the theatre is comprised of many elements. At its core,
Sound Design involves the process of
meeting
the auditory
requirements for
a particular theatrical production. Many
times this involves
collecting or creating sound effects, sonic
environments,
and music
as dictated by a dramatic script and the production's needs. Sometimes it involves sound reinforcement
through the use electronic equipment or acoustic
consideration. Often, a combination of these elements is required.
The University of
Virginia's Department of Drama offers courses in Sound Design. In these courses, students are introduced to
the art of creating sonic material for theatre and other media and the process of designing with sound.