A woman of many talents, one of Joan Baker's chief skills is bringing people together for a good cause to mingle, learn, become empowered and celebrate their gifts.

I got word about an upcoming event in New York City that I thought would be of interest to you and am passing along some details. If you decide to go, let me know by commenting on the blog!

Secrets of Voice-Over Success

Joan Baker's book, Secrets of Voice-Over Success, first published in 2005, features essays written by a number of professional voice over artists, including a contribution from the late Don LaFontaine, illustrating how they got to where they are in their careers with the purpose of inspiring others and sharing personal, meaningful experiences.

Joan's father suffered from Alzheimer's. When the disease robbed him of his voice and his life, Joan was compelled to gather a collection of stories from her colleagues to share how the human voice can triumph, donating 100% of the book's royalties to the Alzheimer's Association in his memory.

Secrets of Voice-Over Success Gala Event

On Wednesday July 29th, 2009 at 7 p.m. in New York City, Joan Baker will be co-hosting a special event with announcer Alan Kalter (Late Show with David Letterman) promoting the re-release of her book "Secrets of Voice-Over Success", demonstrating how one can create a career in voice-over acting, through the journeys of those who have already succeeded.

Other special guests on hand include Jim Dale, award-winning narrator of the Harry Potter audiobook series, Richard Thomas (voice of Mercedes Benz), Joe Cipriano (voice of Deal or No Deal), Valerie Smaldone (voice of Broadway on Broadway), and Rodd Houston, the voice of Verizon Wireless and the NFL.

The discussion includes:

๏ Basic steps to breaking in
๏ How to cultivate your talent
๏ Creating a demo reel
๏ How to work with agents
๏ Auditioning technique
๏ Self promotion and networking

You can attend this exciting event for the mere cost of $49.95, a bargain in my books considering the networking opportunities and access to some of the most experienced and in-demand voices in the industry.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit:

Secrets of Voice-Over Success Event Information / Tickets

Alternatively, you can call Push Creative (Joan Baker's and Rudy Gaskins' company) and order your tickets over the phone by dialing 212-269-0700.

Best wishes,

Stephanie

If you had 30 seconds to ask anything about how to record voiceovers at home or on the road, what would your single most important question be?

My friend Harlan Hogan, author of "Voice Actor's Guide to Recording at Home... And On the Road", along with his co-author, Jeffrey P. Fisher, are conducting an online survey to learn more about what voice artists want to know regarding recording voice overs (whether at home or on the road) with the top questions answered via a live teleseminar, TBA, facilitated by Dan O'Day.

Want to get in on the call?

Learn more now!

Here's What To Do

If you've been waiting to read Harlan's book or have read it and have follow up questions that you'd like to ask, make sure that you register for the call now and submit your question for Harlan and Jeffrey.

Here's the link where you can do just that:

Register for Harlan Hogan's FREE teleseminar and ask your question now.

Enjoy!

Best wishes,

Stephanie

"If there had been no Don Morrow, there would be no Don LaFontaine."--- Don LaFontaine.

Now is your opportunity to study with the mentor and friend of the legendary Don LaFontaine.

Attend the workshop and also have a brief trailer demo produced by Don Morrow on March 14th, 2009.

Learn more now.

Don Morrow Voice Over Workshop

Don Morrow has been the spokesman and on camera for over 20,000 national and international commercials and motion picture campaigns. He has been the narrator for hundreds of documentaries: A&E Biography, The E! True Hollywood Story, The History Channel.

Learn from one of the best, celebrating over 50 years in the business.

Event: Don Morrow's Voice Over Seminar
Date / Time: March 14, 2009 from 1pm to 7:30pm
Cost: $799.00
Venue: Steve Hanson's Hi-Top Productions
Street: 1 Bank Street
City/Town: Stamford, CT
Website or Map: http://www.donmorrowvoiceovertraining.com
Contact Info: 203-748-0378 or email: voiceosofdm@aol.com

Payment must be received in full no later than February 20th, 2009. Checks or money orders may be sent to:

C/O The Bedford Group, Inc.
17 King St.
Danbury, CT USA
O6811

For further questions please email Don at voicesofdm@aol.com or call 203-748-0378. You can also make payment to attend Don's workshop by PayPal.

From what I heard last, there are about 4 places remaining in the workshop before it reaches capacity.

Best wishes,

Stephanie

Want to get into movie trailers?

The first-ever movie trailer workshop held by Don Morrow, a contemporary and friend of the late Don LaFontaine, will take place in Sacramento at Nakamoto Productions November 1st, 2008.

Who is Don Morrow?

He originated today’s trailer style delivery with then trailer film editor, the late Don LaFontaine, in the late fifties.

Don Morrow has voiced theatrical trailers for:

๏ Titanic
๏ Saving Private Ryan
๏ A Fistful of Dollars
๏ The Good, the Bad and the Ugly
๏ Hang ‘Em High
๏ The Dirty Dozen
๏ The Prince of Egypt
๏ The Talented Mr. Ripley
๏ The Ciderhouse Rules
๏ Omega Man
๏ Snow falling on Cedars
๏ Blue Water
๏ White Death
๏ Far From the Madding Crowd

And hundreds more!

The Movie Trailer Workshop:

Don will personally direct you recording an actual trailer. He will also demonstrate microphone techniques, voice projection and intensity levels as well as teach you about the elements of a trailer demo and how to start your career.

Seating is limited for this workshop. Early bird tuition is $175 by Oct. 15th, thereafter, it will be $200.

When: November 1st, 2008, 10:30 am-1:30 pm
Where: Nakamoto Productions, 907 20th St, Sacramento, California 95814
Price: $175 until Oct. 15th, thereafter and at the door: $200

This is the first Trailer Workshop ever held by Don Morrow and you'll be some of the first to learn in a group setting from his decades of experience.

For Reservations, call Ray at Nakamoto Productions: 916-447-6435
Or email Ray Nakamoto: Ray@nakamotoproductions.com

Best wishes,

Stephanie

Are you looking for a chance to study with Joan Baker?

Check out Joan's Fall / Winter schedule and head for the Big Apple!

Upcoming Joan Baker Voice Over Immersion Classes

Saturday November 1st, 2008, fee $445
Saturday January 17th, 2009, fee $495
Saturday February 7th, 2009, fee $495
Saturday February 28th, 2009, fee $495
Saturday March 14th, 2009, fee $495
Saturday March 28th, 2009, fee $495

What Joan's Classes Will Cover

๏ Script Analysis and Interpretation
๏ Microphone Technique
๏ Auditioning Technique
๏ Diction and Speech
๏ Taking Direction
๏ How to Get and Maintain Work
๏ Demo Reels and Continuing Education
๏ Q&A

Classes take place from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (lunch served)
Location: 42 Broadway, Ste. 1135, NYC

(10% off for SAG, EQUITY, and AFTRA members)

To reserve your seat call 212-269-0700 and ask for the "Immersion Class".

Special Guests:

Rudy Gaskins, Emmy Award-winning Producer
CEO of Push Creative Advertising
Gaskins will direct participants on professional performance

Matt Ambrosia, Talent Agent, Paradigm Talent Agency
Mr. Ambrosia will provide audition training and a professional audition with future consideration.

About Joan Baker

Joan Baker is the author of Secrets of Voice-Over Success: Top Voice-Over Actors Reveal How They Did It. She's been teaching and lecturing nationally for over 12 years and is one of New York's top coaches and voice-over professionals. Clients include HBO, Olay, NBC Sports, ABC News, Learning Annex, Nickelodeon and American Express. Joan is also available for private coaching.

Joan Baker is also a featured instructor on Voice Over Experts. Check out her podcasts here:

Joan Baker on Voice Over Experts

Best wishes,

Stephanie

Before 2008 ends, you have the opportunity to attend two final voiceover workshop days with Bettye Zoller in Dallas, Texas.

Learn what you need to succeed as a voice talent today and have fun too!

Also, there's a workshop in Houston that you may be interested in. For more details, keep reading this post.

Dallas

October 11 is "Voice Acting for Today's New Media." Learn about today's new types of voiceover jobs and how to win them. You'll also concentrate on learning more about the in-home recording studio you must operate today to work and also on today's internet voiceover sites and your internet presence. The workshop will also include business information and marketing and self-promotion tips. There will also be two guest instructors. Location in Dallas to be announced.

Contact: 214-638-TALK (8255) or visit www.voicesvoices.com for information and to enroll in the online store.

Fee: $305. MC VISA Check.

And on November 8 in Dallas, join Bettye Zoller for "The Business of Voiceovers," her most popular seminar nationwide. In this intensive one-day workshop you'll learn where the jobs are, how to win them, winning more online auditions, working on the internet more successfully, helping your agents help you, and much more!

Fee: $305 includes valuable take-home handout packet.

Contact: www.voicesvoices.com or phone 214-638-TALK (8255)

Houston, TX Workshop

Study with Bettye Zoller and a number of guest teachers on Sunday October 26. This day begins at 9 a.m. with a luscious catered breakfast buffet at the Marriott Hotel Galleria with mix and mingle, get-acquainted / networking. Then, you'll receive hands-on copy reading and copy interpretation coaching from voice coach and voiceover pro, Bettye Zoller.

Guest teacher, Scott Feighner, Houston recording studio equipment advisor, audio engineer producer, and voiceover talent, provides information on improving your home-based computer recording studio and on becoming a better audio engineer.

Guest teacher, Houston's Jim Conlan, owner of "Radio Works", audio engineer, commercial producer, instructs you on the voiceover demo today and how to win more auditions.

The "business of voiceovers" will also be a topic and the handout packets you take home will contain valuable articles on the industry and more.

Fee: $175.

Contact: www.voicesvoices.com or phone 214-638-TALK (8255).

Private consultations with Bettye Zoller in Houston Texas are also available: Contact her right away to reserve your private hour consultation Limited availability.

Houston dates: Monday October 27, Tuesday October 28. Time slots scheduled individually once you are enrolled. $85 per hour.

Bettye Zoller is also a featured presenter on our podcast, Voice Over Experts. To listen to Bettye, you can visit her profile here:

Bettye Zoller on Voice Over Experts

Best wishes,

Stephanie

Game On at Pat Fraley's Game World!

Acquire the performance and marketing skills you need on how to get to Gaming Producers and
Casting People BEFORE they throw the work to the Northern Hemisphere!

Be in a position to list the best teachers in the industry, and be trained in the best facility in Los Angeles. "Who Trained You" makes a difference to Producers, Casting People, and Agents.

They READ YOUR RESUMES!

This is the inside track on how you can be prepared and participate in the largest and fastest growing area in the entire entertainment industry: Voicing Characters for Gaming.

This single area of entertainment will SURPASS the MOVIE INDUSTRY in two to three years.

Interested in learning more?

Instructors at Game World, the Ultimate Video Game Voice Over Event

David Fries, Event Teacher. David casts and directs for the largest gaming company in the world, Electronic Arts. David brings with vast experience to our event. He knows just what producers are listening for when casting, and will deliver the "real deal" as he directs participants. His credits include the popular series of Lord of the Rings and Command and Conquer.

Vanessa Marshall, Guest Artist. Game Producers all the way down to Serious Gamers know the name, Vanessa Marshall. Vanessa voices the very best projects in gaming, such as, No More Heroes, Spider-Man 3, Metal Gear Solid, Forgotten Realms, James Bond 007, and over a dozen characters on Everquest II. Vanessa will be on hand to share her process in performing voices for gaming and sharing the inside track on delivering what Gaming Producers insist upon, particularly for women.

Patrick Fraley, Event Teacher. Patrick brings 35 years experience as a voice talent and teacher to this event. Patrick and two other performers created all the voices for the new, unique game for Electronic Arts' Spore, which has just has just been released. Patrick has performed in some of the most successful games in the history of the genre, such as The Knights of the Old Republic, Terminator 3, Star Wars Rogue Squadron III, Evil Dead, Toy Story Racer, Escape from Monkey Island, and Full Throttle.

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

๏ Acquire the knowledge on how to work the Gaming Industry, network, and get your skills known to those who produce and cast.
๏ Learn how to deliver evocative performances for the unique demands of gaming.
๏ Record your best tracks in pristine sound, many of which may be used in your demo tracks to show off your abilities to those that cast and direct.
๏ Receive a comprehensive workbook on Gaming, and mastered, mixed, recorded tracks.

Cost:
$595. Cash, Check or Credit Card.
Payment schedules upon request

Where:
World Famous Buzzy's Recording
6900 Melrose Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90038

When:
9:30 - 6:00 Sunday, October 12, 2008

To Enroll:
Email patfraleyteaches@aol.com or call (818) 400-3733

The Great Vancouver Character and Accent Event

Pat Fraley will be hosted by Debbie Munro at Voice Pitt Studios near Vancouver, British Columbia in Canada. Both Pat and Debbie are featured on the Voice Over Experts podcast.

To listen to Pat Fraley's lectures, click here:

Pat Fraley on Voice Over Experts

To listen to Debbie Munro's lectures, click here:

Debbie Munro on Voice Over Experts

Day One: Creating Character Voices

๏ Record in a professional ensemble cast animation track recording session.
๏ Learn how to break the character voice down and manipulate the six elements for versatility and separation.
๏ Create unique, evocative character voices from visual, oral, and written sources.
๏ Learn to develop the critical “Psychological Agendas” for your characters.
๏ Identify Character Archetypes, the "Casting Common Denominator" for Interactive, Commercials and Animation.
๏ Includes Event Workbook, and your recorded tracks.

Day Two: Accent on Dialects

The first and only Dialect System designed specifically to address the rapid demands of the voice over industry.

๏ Record your best efforts at British, Russian, Irish, German, & N.Y.
๏ How to effectively come up with a viable, essential dialect within an hour.
๏ Learn the top requested characters by Casting People & Producers for each dialect.
๏ Where to find authentic research resources in minutes.
๏ Insider techniques on preparing and performing dialects.
๏ Includes Event Workbook, and your recorded tracks.

Cost:
$695. Cash, Check, Credit Card
Payment schedules upon request.

Where:
Hosted by Deb Munro
Voice Pitt Studios
#68 19160 119th Ave.
Pitt Meadows, B.C. V3Y 2L7

When:
9:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday, October, 25-26, 2008

To Enroll:
E-mail patfraleyteaches@aol.com or call (818) 400-3733

Limited to twelve participants.

Have you worked with Pat Fraley before? Leave a comment!

Best wishes,

Stephanie

Here's an opportunity to join Elaine Clark and Harlan Hogan for a weekend of voice over education and fun!

After the great success of the Sarasota FL workshop weekend, H2 and EC decided to take their expertise and experience to a larger East Coast venue.

Don't miss out on this power-packed weekend with the authors of There's Money Where Your Mouth Is (Elaine Clark) and VO : Tales and Techniques of a Voice-Over Actor (Harlan Hogan).

DC VO Workshop

Harlan Hogan and Elaine Clark are locked and loaded for their workshop event in the DC area on November 15 – 16.

Just so you know, the numbers of attendees are LIMITED.

One of the attendees of the Sarasota workshop wrote these words:

June 6, 2008

Ed Victor
Voice Actor 
West Palm Beach, Florida 

Registration

You can sign up for both days, or just for one, it's up to you.

The workshop sessions will be held in Bethesda, MD at a delightful location with free parking and close to a Metro station.

Elaine is an expert on the Voice Over Experts Podcast and you'll be happy to learn that Harlan Hogan will be joining the faculty soon. To get a taste of Elaine's teaching style, visit her profile here:

Elaine Clark on Voice Over Experts

Have you studied with Elaine Clark or Harlan Hogan? Leave a comment with your stories!

Best wishes,

Stephanie

What Are You Doing on The Evening of Wednesday November 12, 2008?

You could be joining voice over divas Nancy Wolfson and Anna Vocino in the third part of their mini series on the :60 Radio Autopsy.

Missed the first two? They're available online. Find out more by reading this article.

Acting for Advertising Teleseminar

Nancy Wolfson and Anna Vocino are doing another Acting for Advertising Teleseminar on November 12th, starting at 9 p.m. Eastern / 6 p.m. Pacific Time.

It will be part 3 of the Radio Script Autopsy, plus as always will include our regular segments, "Behind the Casting Curtain," "Actor to Actor," and their killer Q&A.

The cost to join the call is $39, and sign-up details and additional teleseminar details outlining the class will be up on www.breakintovoiceover.com at the beginning of October.

The MP3s of Acting for Advertising Parts 5 and 6 (which are the first two chapters of the Radio Script Autopsy) are now for sale at www.breakintovoiceover.com.

Nancy is an expert on the Voice Over Experts Podcast. To get a taste of her teaching style, visit her profile here:

Nancy Wolfson on Voice Over Experts

Ever Been on a Call with Nancy and Anna? Share your feedback!

Best wishes,

Stephanie

Voice Over Study Opportunities

Today, you'll be seeing a variety of workshops that are coming up this Fall and Winter in the wonderful world of voice-overs!

First, we'll start with an A1 Voice Over Artist...

Commercial Intensive Voice-Over Tele-Class

Are you looking for an opportunity to study with a top voice acting coach and celebrity talent from the comfort of your own home?

Check out this tele-class starting in October with Rodney Saulsberry.

Need A Moment? Chew It Over With Twix!

What do Zatarain's, Twix, Toyota Camry, ALPO, Honda Accord, Lincoln LS, Verizon, White Castle, 7UP, Burger King, SBC, and Nestle Crunch all have in common?

They're all clients who brand their companies with the voice of Rodney Saulsberry.

Commercial Intensive Voice-Over Teleclass

Rodney is teaching a Commercial Intensive Voice-Over Teleclass. You're invited to join him for three Thursday evenings starting October 16 through October 30, at 8-9 p.m. Eastern Time / 5-6 p.m. Pacific Time, conveniently from the comfort of your home.

Rodney is an expert on the Voice Over Experts Podcast. To get a taste of his teaching style, visit his profile here:

Rodney Saulsberry on Voice Over Experts

To get more information about the upcoming Commercial Intensive Tele-Class, visit the link address below:

http://www.rodneysaulsberry.com/classes2.html

To Register, visit the web address below:

http://www.rodneysaulsberry.com/register.php

If you've read, studied with or learned from Rodney comment and share your experiences.

Best wishes,

Stephanie

Audiobook Narration

This portion of the workshop focused on audiobook narration. Each person in the class picked an excerpt that was a paragraph or so in length to read from, rehearsed independently, and then had the privilege of being directed and recorded in the booth by Pat Fraley.

There were some exciting performances, a few surprise interpretations and plenty of beautiful artistry.

I wrote this article about audiobook narration in general mixed with some tips from Pat Fraley and hope that these observations provide some insight for you.

Welcome to audiobook narration, one of the hottest, booming markets in voice over!

The Subtle

This workshop was very enlightening and really gave us all a glimpse into each person's narrative preferences and style.

Will You Hold To the Contract?

Something that Pat focused on was the contract that the narrator makes with the listener at the beginning of the audiobook. The contract is to suspend their disbelief and bring the listener with the narrator on the journey.

Suspension of Disbelief

Suspending one's disbelief means that although the listener is quite aware that the narrator is only telling a story, no matter how fantastical, they decide to put that fact in the back of their mind to enjoy the show, suspending their disbelief in order to be entertained and embrace the narrator's world and a different reality as intended by the author.

If a narrator goes for "big drama", falters or slips in and out of character, the listener will notice and lose faith in the narrator which breaks the suspension of disbelief.

By maintaining your presence and keeping to the contract, narrators will be able to keep the listener with them and earn their trust.

What Does it Take To Narrate an Audiobook?

Narrating audiobooks is a marathon that requires the ultimate balancing act of artistic and technical endurance coupled with the ability to continuously suspend the audiences' disbelief.

A Good Audiobook Narrator Will Be Able To:

1. Engage the listener
2. Make and keep a contract with the listener to suspend their disbelief
3. Give a consistent performance
4. Have intuitive timing
5. Develop multiple convincing and separate character voices
6. Be an authentic narrator with an independent voice
7. Interpret the author's intent
8. Transport the listener to a different time and place
9. Maintain a solid presence
10. Bring the story to life

When those criteria are met, you'll feel great about your work and can also be assured that your audience will connect with the story, relate to the characters and have full confidence in the narrator's (ultimately, your) ability to captivate, amuse and delight.

How to Get a Billion Dollar Read

When you are recording an audiobook demo, make sure that there is no sound and no production behind your narration. Keep the sound nice and clean.

One of the best things you can do to connect with people for work in audiobooks is networking with audiobook publishers. Some people find that the APA (Audio Publishers Association) is a good place to start for serious narrators looking for audiobook narration opportunities.

Any comments? I'd love to hear from some audiobook narrators about how you got started.

Best wishes,

Stephanie

©iStockphoto.com/VikaValter

Want to get into Character Voice Acting for Interactive and Gaming?

In this article, we'll talk a bit about the market and how the acting style of Realism rules this exciting and fascinating genre.

Also, find out how to avoid silly (yet common) mistakes that most actors fail to realize at the onset. Be one of the smart ones and read this article first before going to the studio!

Interactive / Gaming Voice Overs

According to Pat Fraley, interactive / gaming projects are 80% drama driven. Also, 95% of all game tracks are recorded talent by talent and not in an ensemble setting.

There usually isn't much by way of direction, so if you find yourself auditioning for one of these jobs, you need to guess and rely on instinct.

During the recording sessions once you've landed the gig, the director will be a source of great knowledge and assistance, providing context for each and every line of dialogue.

Realism Rules This Genre!

Nobody likes a faker, especially people who play the games (those people are called gamers), and they can sniff a faker out a mile away.

Authenticity is very important for interactive / gaming voice overs so it is up the voice actor to project a realistic persona for their characters and play your actions out based upon motivations. The only way to deliver a realistic performance is good acting.

Being authentic is related to making real choices. There are two kinds of actors, smart actors and stupid actors.

Here Are Some Tips on How To Be a Smart Actor:

๏ When called to sigh, sigh on the the line. Most actors will sigh at the beginning of the sentence or line and it's way too predictable. Sigh on the line.

๏ Abide by the Series of Three when delivering your lines. Pat has mentioned this before but it is good to review. You can use the Goldilocks method of "Too Hot, Too Cold, Just Right", or any other combination of relative feelings toward whoever it is you are talking to in the script, perhaps "Love, Like, Hate", or Like, Impartial, or Dislike".

๏ When you need to speak to small groups of people, don't yell if it's an intimate setting; make sure that your voice and its projection is equal to what one would expect in real life. Similarly, if you're addressing groups of 20 - 50 or larger groups, oh let's say 10,000 people in an army, be mindful of the scope and project as necessary.

๏ If you are recording for an older character, don't make them sound like they have one foot in the grave. People in their 50s, 60s, and in even their 70s still have a robust quality to their voices. There's no need to sound 100 years old when it calls for a mature, senior voice.

๏ Don't touch microphones in the studio but ask for assistance. More on that below.

Microphone Technique

๏ 5 fingers, hand width away, then 5 fingers open for further distance.
๏ For intimate conversations get closer, as close as 3 fingers distance.
๏ Never touch the microphone or adjust the pop filter / wind screen. If you want it moved, ask the recording engineer to make the adjustment. You can move the script or script stand.
๏ Get a comfortable headphone mix. Try putting one head phone on, and the other side of the headphone off so that you hear your true self.

This is also a good technique if you are recording in a group. It's easier to communicate in group, by listening directly and not through the headphones.

Words of Wisdom from Pat Fraley

In relation to character voice acting :

"Never give up your power until you have to."

"To realize a really good choice, you have to work the mic."

What Are Your Thoughts on Interactive / Gaming VO?

I'd love to hear from you so leave a comment!

Best wishes,

Stephanie

©iStockphoto.com/AF-studio

Are you interested in character voice acting for animation?

Great actors on deathbeds have said "Dying is easy, Comedy is hard". Although that is true, you can learn how to be comical and it doesn't have to take years to do.

In Pat Fraley's workshop, "The Silly, The Serious, and The Subtle" we explored character voice acting for the morning and I'd like to share some wisdom with you. Today, we'll look at The Silly!

Meat and Potatoes

Last weekend, we were fortunate to attend a workshop by Pat Fraley in Buffalo at Chameleon Communications hosted by Toni Silveri of All Coast Talent.

As he opened, Pat said that he likes working with Toni for a number of reasons, also sharing that the unique thing about Toni is that she teaches things you won't find in other workshops.

Something you should know about Pat's workshops is that he teaches systemic, practical things that you won't hear in big production centers in Hollywood. These are the systemic things that will help you get times of difficulty and even through a recession.

I've included some of Pat's tips below but am saving some for you to discover should you take one of his classes (something I highly recommend).

5 Tips For How To Become Silly

๏ Watch cartoons
๏ Gather character research
๏ Listen to things you want to be doing
๏ Look at cast lists
๏ Don't be afraid to explore your voice

It's All About Process

Some of the most brilliant people walk the line between genius and stupidity, and many of those geniuses take more time to get things right in the booth than most other people.

When you make mistakes recording, don't be sorry, but realize that it's all about the process.

The best in the business, including celebrity voice actors like Lily Tomlin and Richard Horvitz, aren't satisfied with the first few takes but go for more because they know that it's all about the process.

Upon making that distinction, you'll find that performance is a kinder and gentler place to live where your mistakes are processed and not chastised.

Let Go, Make Art!

Shake off your inhibitions and you'll be able to make art. You've got to turn off the internal safety or governor that dictates what your limitations are and open up to experiencing new, even silly things.

Let it be known that if you don't want to try things you will not achieve brilliance.

Any Comments?

Looking forward to hearing from you,

Stephanie

Where will you be on August 16th and 17th, 2008?

I'll be at Pat Fraley's Silly, Serious and Subtle VO event in Buffalo and I hope you can join us!

Want to hear more about it?

This summer is proving to be one busy sojourn!

On Saturday, August 16th, I'll be attending a workshop presented by Pat Fraley in Buffalo (Amherst), NY, an event that I've been looking forward to now for months.

Toni Silveri, Pat's host in Amherst, has generously invited me to be part of this special weekend and I'd love to share more with you about it now.

At this summer event, you'll be able to hone your skills at creating and delivering character voice performances for the specific demands of the top three mediums.

The Silly:
Animation voice over work is 85% comedy driven.

The Serious:
Interactive/Gaming work is 85% serious drama driven.

The Subtle:
Audiobooks require a heightened sense of realism and a subtle touch.

Event Highlights

• Participate in animation recording EXACTLY as they are directed professionally.
• Record Interactive/Gaming characters for audition and professional application.

Cost: $375.00
Place: 130 Bondcroft Drive, Amherst NY 14226 (716) 836-4339
Date: Saturday, August 16th, 2008
Time: 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Continental Breakfast Served at 8:30.
Lunch included.

Enrollment:

To enroll, visit Pat Fraley's website to complete the mail order form. Space is extremely limited. I heard that there are only a couple of spaces remaining, so if you want to be part of this, I encourage you to get moving on it now to avoid disappointment.

A maximum of 12 performers will be allowed to participate in this unique event.

Also, you should take note of the workshop on the Sunday, taking a leaf out of Pat's Billion $ Read!

Same bat place, same bat channel but on Sunday August 17th, 2008.

To learn more about this set of workshops, you can visit Pat's website.

Hope to see you there!

Best wishes,

Stephanie

P.S. Pat Fraley is also the featured guest on this week's edition of Voice Over Experts. Be sure to tune in and subscribe if you haven't already!

Ever heard of VOWOL?

Until a few months back, neither had I, but I'm very glad that I did!

Meet Roy Samuelson

I'd like to introduce you to Roy Samuelson, founder of VOWOL, also known as the Voice Over Work Out Lounge.

Roy and I first got talking when I discovered VOWOL a few months ago. When I read about what they were up to, I just had to speak with him and find out what on earth was going on in Hollywood at this place called "VOWOL".

Right off the bat, Roy was a pleasure to speak with and his passion for bringing people together to hone their craft was simply contagious. You've got to love that about VO folk ;)

History of VOWOL

VOWOL started in 1996 as a way for actors to split studio time and play in the booth, essentially, "working out" together vocally to sharpen their skills and mastery of voice over techniques.

Since then, the Voice Over Work Out Lounge has been a playful, informal, and nourishing place for working VO actors and others to get together, meet coaches, producers, agents, and directors.

Recent Successes

According to Roy, the recent billybobvo.com intensive weekends with Bob Bergen and Bill Holmes have been wonderfully successful to the students in attendence. Also the first "Not A Demo Demo" series sold out, with 2 more (focusing on commercial demos and animation demos) accruing top masters in the profession, talking about VO demos, what works and what doesn't.

The word about http://vowol.com has been spread word of mouth, and with a working web-based scheduling program near completion, VOWOL hopes to get even more positive growth and VO actors into the booth. Most home-based recording studio actors have enjoyed getting additional feedback and networking opportunities.

Have you been to the Voice Over Work Out Lounge?

If so, leave a comment below!

Cheers,

Stephanie

Want to Meet Voices.com?

As the founders of Voices.com, David and I are slated to speak at the Voice Coaches Advanced Marketing Expo and Conference in Schenectady, NY on May 3rd, 2008.

Come meet us in New York!

Voice Coaches Advanced Marketing Expo

For the second consecutive year, Voices.com has been invited to speak at the Voice Coaches Advanced Marketing Expo and Conference to take place on Saturday May 3rd, 2008 in Schenectady, NY at the GE Theater. Our topic is getting the absolute most from Voices.com and marketing on the Internet.

We have a longstanding relationship with Voice Coaches and are thrilled to return this spring.

What's Going On?

This is a one-day event for voice actors that brings together a unique blend of industry professionals with a variety of specialized knowledge and experience, giving attendees a rare opportunity to learn from and interact with top professionals and experts. There will also be live media coverage of the event.

Scheduled Speakers for This Year’s Conference Include:

• Rodney Saulsberry, voice over artist and author of books “You Can Bank on Your Voice” and “Step Up to the Mic”
• Billy Serow, top voice over agent, head of commercial VO casting at Abrams Agency in New York and voice acting faculty at Yale University
• Evan Farmer, Host of TLC’s hit show “While you Were Out”, voice for MTV’s “Daria” series, “Celebrity Death Match” and numerous others
• David and Stephanie Ciccarelli, founders of Voices.com, an industry leading web-based voice over marketplace
• Mark Magdich, home recording expert and sales engineer with top equipment retailer Sweetwater
• Evan Skolnick, gaming voice over producer, producer and writer of games including Guitar Hero, Spider Man 3, Shrek 2 and numerous others
• Jay Silverman, voice actor, announcer and public communications expert who currently teaches marketing at The Sages College, The University of Albany, and Voice Coaches team member
• David Bourgeois, Voice Coaches president and professional producer
• Dan Dinsmore, CEO of Overit Media, a design firm with clients including The Chicago Bulls, Trump Vodka, and the Denver Nuggets

Open Enrollment

In previous years, the conference had been exclusively limited to clients of Voice Coaches, but this year, David Bourgeois and his team are excited to announce that the Advanced Marketing Expo and Conference has open registration and welcomes voice actors from all over the country offering registration over the phone toll-free to reserve tickets for this industry event.

What Can You Expect?

Registration for the event includes admission to all lectures and the expert panel, continental breakfast, snacks and beverages throughout the day, access to all Info-Vend booths, networking lunch, inclusion on the Pro Voice Compilation CD, 1 year “I can Voice” Web Extension (Voice Coaches clients only), 4 CD set of the entire event and Voice Coaches Advanced Marketing Expo Book with information from all event presenters.

How to Register

To learn more or register for the Voice Coaches Advanced Marketing Expo and Conference in Schenectady, NY on May 3rd 2008, call 1-866-887-2834 ext. 100 or visit www.voicecoaches.com/marketing .

About Voice Coaches

Voice Coaches, based in Schenectady, NY provides one on one voice over training, demo development, and marketing support to clients across the United States and Canada. The company offers a very complete training solution to aspiring voice actors, including voice evaluation, private training, commercial and narrative demo development, legally licensed copy, CD demo replication, web demo development, self marketing training, personal mini web site, long term support and automatic placement on the web’s number one marketplace for Voice Actors, Voices.com. Voice Coaches is dedicated to unparalleled ethics in training and is a member of the BBB, The Voice and Speech Trainers Association, and The American Society for Training and Development.

Hope to see you there! If you're coming leave a comment on the blog so that we can meet up.

Best wishes,

Stephanie and David Ciccarelli

Looking for opportunities to hone your voice over skills?

Catch some classes this April taught by voice over coaches Pat Fraley with Candi Milo in LA, Kim Snyder in Roseville, and a weekend workshop with Elaine Clark and Harlan Hogan in Sarasota.

PAT FRALEY

The Masters Comedy Performance Event with Candi Milo

For Voice Over, 85% of all animation and dialogue commercials are comedy or humor-driven. Here's where you can acquire the comedic skills to deliver what producers and casting people need. Here's where you can get real funny! Join two masters who will teach you the critical skills for comedy voice over performance.

When: Saturday April 5th, 10AM to 6PM
Where: Buzzy's Recording, 6900 Melrose Ave. in Los Angeles
Cost: $595
Payment Methods: Cash, check, credit card, payment schedules arranged on request.

To register: Email Pat Fraley patfraleyteaches@aol.com or call 818-400-3733

KIM SNYDER

Intro to Voiceovers

Learn what it takes to make money with your voice as a commercial and industrial voice talent; Discover what Voiceovers are, what it takes to become a working talent, how to know if it's for you and how to get started. Registration is limited to 15 participants.

When: April 19th 9 a.m. 12 p.m.
Where: The Voice Training Studio, 211 Douglas in Roseville, CA
Cost: $75
Register: http://www.thevoiceclub.com/voiceovers.html

Voiceover Success

This workshop is for new and working voice talent. Find out how to make a bigger impact with your demo, how to find your marketing niche, focus your efforts and find the work others are missing. Intro to VO is required in the absence of a demo submission.

When: April 19th 1 p.m. - 4p.m.
Where: The Voice Training Studio, 211 Douglas in Roseville, CA
Cost: $75
Register: http://www.thevoiceclub.com/voiceovers.html

ELAINE CLARK AND HARLAN HOGAN

On Saturday April 26, Elaine Clark shows you how to do your Acting in the White Space. Harlan Hogan takes over on Sunday April 27 to present The Long Haul - Where Do We Go From Here?

Where: Sarasota, Florida
When: April 26 and April 27, 2008
Register: http://www.harlanhogan.com/reservations2.shtml

Questions should be directed to Pat McCall at 941-966-6750 or mccall.patrick@gmail.com

Will you be going to any of these workshops?

Stephanie

©iStockphoto.com/Joan Vicent Cantó Roig

As you may have heard, Pat Fraley along with some friends have an ADR (Automatic Dialog Replacement) and Looping Event coming up soon in Los Angeles.

I've got the scoop on the presenters and what the lucky participants will be up to.

Here's a great opportunity to study with 2008 Lifetime Achievement Voicey award winner, Patrick Fraley.

ADR and Looping Training Event in Los Angeles

Here's an invitation from Pat Fraley to sign up for the most meaningful ADR/Looping Training Event ever presented scheduled over two days, March 8-9, 2008, Saturday and Sunday in Los Angeles.

Participants will be trained by the country's Masters of ADR/Looping, Voice Matching and Replacement to possess all the skills ADR Supervisors, Post-Production and Casting Houses and desirable Agents.

In every major city in America, there is ADR/Looping, Voice Matching and Dialogue Replacement Work available to those who have the skills for union or non-union industrials, feature length films, and TV.

Conducted by a team of Masters who know how to deliver the training you need:

Terri Douglas: Leading Casting and ADR Session Queen, casts and conducts sessions for films like Disney's "Enchanted," "College Road Trip," "Wild Hogs," "Chicken Little," and ON and ON and ON. She'll be guiding the participants through the exact methods she uses on the ADR stage at Disney.

Patrick Fraley: Voice-Over Talent/Teacher, will be teaching his approach to voice matching and replacing. Pat recently supplied voices for Sony Picture's "I Am Legend," Paramount's "The Spiderwick Chronicles," and Disney's "College Road Trip."

Eric Thompson: ADR Engineer who will guide the technical side of the event with
the expertise that can only come from over 21 years of experience. Eric has engineered the ADR for hundreds of diverse films and TV projects, ranging from "Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins," "27 Dresses," "Hysteria," "The Golden Compass," and "Rambo."

Ned Lott: Casting, Producer and ADR Supervisor. Having cut his teeth at Disney on "Cars," "Pirates of the Caribbean," "The Chronicles of Narnia," and many more, Ned is now a freelance producer and the Executive Producer for Denison Entertainment.

Andy Morris: Audio Engineer and Producer at Buzzy's Recording, has over 40 years experience recording talent. Andy knows how to get the job done. Andy engineers ADR sessions continually and has perfected the most sophisticated technical system in the country. Buzzy's is the home away from home for James Earl Jones, Linda Hunt, Liam Neeson and David Keith.

Day One - March 8

Hollywood's Famous Buzzy's Recording Studio

12 Participants will be taught how to recognize their personal sound print and effectively adjust to match those on the screen, supplying voices for Movies, TV and Industrials. Learn how to "lip sync" with critical accuracy in the booth while sound and picture are rolling.

Day Two - March 9

LA's Premiere Professional ADR Sound Stage, Wildfire Post-Production Studio

Participants will work with Terri Douglas on group ADR/Looping Techniques, with a collection of FRESH animated and live action feature films splashed up on the screen.

Learn Advanced ADR Techniques, Insider Tricks and Invaluable Ensemble Work.

Cost: $1200. Check, Cash, Credit Cards
Payment schedules arranged upon request.

When: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM on Saturday and Sunday, March 8-9, 2008

Saturday: Buzzy's Recording. 6900 Melrose Ave., LA, 90038
Sunday: Wildfire Studios. 640 South San Vicente Blvd., LA 90048

Event is limited to 12 participants.

To Enroll: Email patfraleyteaches@aol.com or call 818.400.3733

Best,

Stephanie

Debbie Munro is coming to Toronto in a couple of weeks!

Winnipeg and Vancouver are also on her itinerary over the next month.

This is your opportunity to study with Voicey Award winner Deb Munro, Best Female Voice.

Debbie Munro will be bringing her Mic & Me workshops to Toronto, Winnipeg and Vancouver this coming March.

Mic & Me Voiceover Workout : Toronto - March 8/9; Winnipeg March 29/30

Mic & Me Teen Voice / On Camera Weekend - Vancouver - March 1/2

For more details you can visit Deb's website.

Best,

Stephanie

Looking for a voice over coach?

We have recently developed a network that connects voice acting instructors with students seeking voice over training.

Check out more information here at VOX Daily!

Voice Coaches Network Vision

Building relationships and facilitating connections is one of our specialties at Voices.com.

After years of nurturing and developing relationships with the top voice over instructors in North America and abroad, we thought it was time to standardize and publicly announce the amazing opportunities available to voice over trainers, calling this new initiative the "Voices.com Voice Coaches Network".

Over the past four years, we have collaborated with voice over coaches in many ways, all of which are symbiotic and directly benefit the voice over industry at large.

You've likely seen this in action first hand as a reader of VOX Daily, Ask the Voice Cat, Master VO or as a listener to the podcasts Voice Over Experts and VOX Talk.

We're pleased to offer an interactive directory of teachers who provide voice over training across the US, Canada and Great Britain... and beyond!

Want to know a bit more about the actual voice coaches network?

As part of the Voices.com Voice Coaches Network, instructors are given free publicity and the opportunity to educate on a pro bono basis via the Voice Over Experts podcast.

Voice trainers can also have their articles and upcoming workshops posted on the VOX Daily blog as well as special mentions on Voice Over Times, the online news source for the voice over industry.

An Overview of Benefits Free for Coaches Include:

- Promotion through the Voice Over Experts Podcast
- Your own Voice Coaches Profile
- Press Release Writing and Distribution
- Have your articles published on the VOX Daily Blog
- Coverage on Voice Over Times
- Join the Affiliate Program
- Receive exclusive opportunities through Voices.com (book reviews, participate in Voices.com sponsored events, and more)

Public Service

The Voice Coaches Network is a public service provided by Voices.com to help promote the importance of voice acting education and evangelize the art of voice acting while teaching people how to navigate the new world of voice overs online. Through these extraordinary efforts, Voices.com propels the future of voice acting, proactively engaging the community and shaping the industry for years to come.

Labor of Love

The Voice Coaches Network is a labor of love, both on the part of the instructors and our company.

Giving back to the community is very important. Everyone involved in this project realizes the impact they are having and are proud to be part of this outstanding initiative in educational excellence.

Want to join the Voices.com Voice Coaches Network?

By partnering with Voices.com, you'll enjoy unparalleled publicity through blogs, podcasts, press releases and feature articles, all the goal of helping you attract students as well as support you by giving you access to tools and resources.

Simply Click here to Complete the Form

Do you know a voice over coach who should be part of the Voices.com Voice Coaches Network? Invite them to join by sending them to this article here on VOX Daily.

If you are a voice over coach, thank you for your interest and I look forward to working with you.

Best wishes,

Stephanie

I'm always happy to hear from VOX Daily readers whom I haven't yet met.

Yesterday, I received an email reply to VOX Daily from Reed Rudy, a voice acting instructor in California, letting me know about his upcoming workshop this Spring.

So everyone, I'd like you to meet Reed Rudy. Please make him at home :)

Voice over online is such a small world and one would think that you know everyone in it already, but every once in a while, I hear from someone who is a voice over coach or casting director who reads VOX Daily whom I didn't know before.

It's exciting to hear from all of you, by the way.

When I got Reed's email, I was thrilled to hear from him. Today, I want to introduce Reed and ask for your help welcoming him to the community.

Meet Reed Rudy

Reed Rudy has been an actor for film, TV and commercials for twenty-three years and has worked in voice acting for fifteen years voicing campaigns for companies the likes of Polaroid, Hagar, McDonalds, State Fund, Alfa Insurance. Reed is currently the voice of Al, for Osh and also has a talent for narration, including work recorded for numerous music shows on VH1, HGTV, and most currently the long running series for Encore, "Cinenews".

Teaching

Reed Rudy has taught voice for the past five years, both privately and open classes. Currently he coaches many of KCRW’s (Los Angeles’ NPR affiliate) radio hosts and also teaches voiceover classes at various levels which leads me to something that may be of interest to you.

Twice a year, Reed holds eight-week sessions for voice actors, one in the Spring and one in the Fall.

The most popular is called "Introduction to Voiceover - Exploring the Voice".

It’s a class focused on the craft of Voiceovers, with lots of booth time and all session-work is burned onto a CD for you to take home. According to Reed, the class always proves to be a wonderful experience for both his students and for himself.

The next class in Los Angeles will be from February 26th to April 16th at one of the coolest studios in L.A., Ravenswork, in Venice. To learn more, visit Reed's website.

Are you a voice over coach who doesn't know me yet?

Leave a comment so that we can get connected so that I can post your workshops and classes on VOX Daily, too.

Best wishes,

Stephanie

Randy Thomas and Peter Rofé will be teaching an intensive workshop for ten select students (prior voice-over experience required) in Fort Myers, Florida on April 12, 2008.

Here's your chance to study with one of America’s most recognized female voice announcers and one of America’s most sought after voice-over coaches.

Here's an invitation to participate in a fantastic learning opportunity with two of the industry’s most prolific voice-over experts in Fort Myers this April.

Randy Thomas and Peter Rofé have co-authored a book, VOICE FOR HIRE, which is due out in bookstores this year (2008) and they want to share some of their goodies with you before the book hits the shelves.

In this workshop, Randy and Peter will cover copy interpretation, audition and microphone technique, commercials, industrials, reading to picture, promos, radio imaging, discovering your signature voice, and valuable marketing strategies.

Space is limited, so inquire as soon as you can.

Location: Unity Gain Studios - Fort Myers, FL
Date: Saturday, April 12 (9 a.m. - 7 p.m.)
Fee: $400 if you sign up by March 31 - $450 if after March 31

For reservations, please email caryn@carynclark.net

When emailing Caryn, please indicate your prior voice over experience. To guarantee your space, your reservation and payment must be made in advance.

Best,

Stephanie

P.S. Something else of note: Randy will be co-announcing at The 80th Annual Academy Awards this year for the seventh time! Her partner in crime is past Oscars announcer and professional voiceover artist, Tom Kane.

Bettye Zoller has just released her Spring / Summer course schedule and I'm pleased to provide the details to you here on VOX Daily.

Here are the workshops in a nutshell:

March 15th: Advanced Voiceover Workshop in Dallas, TX
March 30th: Children's Voiceover Workshop in Dallas, TX
April 5th and 6th: Cartoon Character Voices and Audiobook Narration Techniques Weekend in Dallas, TX
June 30th: Voiceover Evening with Bettye Zoller in Nashville, TN
July 30th: The Business of Voiceovers Workshop in Denver, CO
August 2nd: Audiobook Narration Techniques Voiceover Workshop in Denver, CO

Read more details below for each one.

Advanced Voiceover Techniques Workshop

Location: Dallas, TX.
Date: March 15th, 2008
Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

This day is for voiceover talents and actors from film, TV, theatre too who are not beginners at the craft and who have had experience in some area of acting and some previous training and you don't need to have a voice over demo yet - Bettye will focus on this in her class. Students will experience hands-on voice acting, learn how to develop characters, dissect copy, and take a deeper look at that psychological aspects of advertising and how the voiceover script manipulates listeners and ingraines messages in their minds.

Call Bettye Zoller at 214-638-TALK (8255) and leave message to be contacted about this advanced day or email her at btzol@aol.com. Once you've talked, she will then give her go-ahead (or advise you) to enroll.

The class is limited to 10 participants and students need permission to enroll.

Fee: $375 Includes continental breakfast, catered working group lunch, guest speakers, excellent hand-out take-home packets Bettye is famous for.

~~

Children's VO Workshop

Location: Dallas, TX
Date: March 30th, 2008
Time: Two sections based on child's age
Morning section 10: a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Ages 7-10
Afternoon section 2:30 p.m. - 6 p.m. Ages 11-14

A talent agent will be in attendance too! One adult must accompany the child at no charge. Fee for child: $225 until March 13. If places still available, $275 fee. ONLY TEN CHILDREN admitted in each section. Child must be good reader and like to read aloud and act! Voice acting techniques taught by the coach of Disney actors, Star Search winners, Broadway and TV stars!

~~

Cartoon Character Voices and Audiobook Narration Weekend

Location: Dallas, TX
Dates: Saturday April 5th and Sunday April 6th, 2008

* Enroll in ONE DAY OR BOTH. Enroll in both and save $50! Fee when you enroll in both days is $525. Both days include continental breakfast, catered working group lunch, all class materials and handouts.

Saturday April 5th: "Cartoon Character Voices" Workshop: $275 Learn from Bettye Zoller techniques behind creating and getting paid to voice character approaches to voiceover roles in commercials, narrations, and cartoons-anime-videogames. She began as a child actor signed to MGM studios in Hollywood and since then has spent a lifetime perfecting her acting and her voice acting techniques she lovingly shares with students worldwide! She is the winner of CLIOS, AUDIES, GOLDEN RADIOS, and ADDYS. Small group!

Sunday April 6th: "Audiobook Narration Techniques" Workshop $300. Bettye Zoller is a Simon and Schuster author, reader, producer and also the author reader of many other titles worldwide. She is a seasoned actor (TV, theatre) and will teach you how to voice fiction and non-fiction titles, where the jobs are, how to make that "killer" audiobook demo you need to get work, and much more. Small group.

~~

A Voiceover Evening with Bettye Zoller!

Location: Nashville, TN
Date: June 30th, 2008
Time: 6 p.m. - 10 p.m.

By popular demand and hosted by some of Nashville's famous studio and voiceover pros. While in town to deliver a keynote artist workshop for the National Association of Teachers of Singing World Conference, Bettye will teach this voiceover workshop July 30 from 6 - 10 p.m. at a local studio. Details coming soon. Reserve early.

~~

The Business of Voiceovers

Location: Denver, CO
Date: July 30th, 2008
Time: Evening

Denver actors are hosting this special evening with Bettye. Learn how you can work worldwide via internet, where the jobs are and much more! Contact Bettye for details and to enroll.

~~

The Business of Voiceovers

Location: Denver, CO, downtown Grand Hyatt Hotel
Date: August 2nd, 2008
Time: 4 p.m. - 6 p.m.

"The Business of Voiceovers" Workshop with Bettye Zoller, a featured keynote workshop as part of the ATHE Annual World Conference in Denver (Association of Theatre Teachers Higher Education).

Bettye Zoller will also be available for private one-hour consultations and voiceover demo evaluations and other career concerns while in Denver July 30-August 4th, one-on-one. Contact her directly to schedule.

Want to get in touch with Bettye? Here are her contact details:

PH: 214-638-TALK (8255)
EMAIL: btzol@aol.com
WEBSITE: www.voicesvoices.com

* To listen to Bettye Zoller on the Voice Over Experts podcast, click here.

Been searching for a voice acting class that will help to propel your career in the real world of voice acting?

"Voiceover: Beyond the Booth”, formerly called "The Business of Voiceover" is now open for enrollment at NYU for Spring 2008. The first class begins Wednesday, February 13th at 6:45 p.m. and runs through May 7th.

Learn more here at VOX Daily.

I know that there are many of you who subscribe to VOX Daily and live in and around New York City. This article is for you!

One of my friends, Johnna Gottlieb, is teaching a fabulous course at NYU and she told me all about it recently on the phone. The class starts in a couple of weeks and she still has some room left for more students, including a spot for you if you're interested.

Something special about this course is that Johnna has a number of high profile guests who visit her class including top agents, voice-over talent, casting directors and notable producers whom she has connected with along the way.

If you register, you'll also have the opportunity to address any questions you might have to key people who have been there and keep a close pulse on the action. You'll also get the chance to read voice-over copy for industry professionals and receive an insider's perspective and feedback about your skill level.

The individual attention and guidance you'll be privy to from people of great esteem in voice acting is amazing value hard to come by elsewhere.

The course is offered as a part of the New York University School of Continuing and Professional Studies, taught by a leading professional in the voice-over field with almost 2 decades of experience as both a top voice-over agent and a voice-over industry consultant who has started and cultivated the careers of some of the most prominent voice-over artists working today.

Beyond the Booth Guests have included:

The Legendary Don LaFontaine – Voice of over 5000 Movie Trailers
Rodd Houston – Voice of Verizon Wireless
Joan Baker – Author “Secrets of Voice-over Success”
Bill Graves – Voice of ABC’s Nightline and Primetime
Tim Champeaux –Voice of Jenny Craig, Today Show Concert Series
Jim Kozloff - Director of Talent and Business Development at VH-1
Stewart F. Wilson Turner – Co-Creator of voicebank.net
Voiceover Agents from Don Buchwald & Associates, Abrams Artists, Paradigm and Innovative Artists
Producers from Miramax Films, ESPN, BET, HBO, NBC Sports

Click to register for Voiceover: Beyond the Booth.

For more information, you can contact Johnna Gottlieb by phone at (718) 768-3511 or visit her website www.jogoco.com.

Best wishes,

Stephanie

If you live in Toronto and have a child or teenager with a knack for voice over, you've likely heard of children's voice acting coach, Sunday Muse.

Sunday Muse will be teaching this weekend at Clare Burt Recording Studio in Toronto, ON Canada.

Sunday Muse is a leading animation voice actor who has provided her voice on such hit shows as Care Bears (Cheer Bear), Rolie Polie Olie and Jo Jo's Circus, is now offering her immensely popular kids voice-over workshop.

Geared towards children who are either looking to move forward in the animation / voice over industry or just looking for a unique educational experience, "Sunday Muse Cartoon Voices for Kids," shows kids how to 'be' the cartoon voice that they see on TV.

In a safe environment, kids explore cartoons through rap music, imitation and a series of mock auditions using scripts from popular animated scripts like Rolie Polie, Care Bears, Super Why, and Arthur. Using her one of a kind technique "Actively on the Spot," kids learn how to animate their bodies and voice by connecting to the emotions and actions of the character they are playing.

Sunday provides them with the skills in demand by casting directors of national cartoons and children's shows and her students end up on national television!

*Workshop includes take home CD.

Details for Toronto Classes:

KIDS: Sunday January 20th, 2008 (11 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.)
Ages: 8 - 12 years

TEENS: Sunday January 27th, 2008 (11 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.)
Ages: 13 - 19 years

Location: Clare Burt Recording Studio
211 Yonge St. (3rd floor)
Toronto, Ontario

Cost: $195+GST.

To sign up, please call (416) 536-6071 or email sundaymuse@hotmail.com (**subject heading should indicate the date of the workshop you are interested in).

Best,

Stephanie

Like to mix business with pleasure?

More and more voice acting study opportunities are offering edutainment or travel as components of their workshops.

What's your ideal destination for a voice acting workshop?

Voice acting workshops, at one point not so long ago, were confined to a local recording studio or hotel conference center.

Within the past several years many voice acting coaches have been offering a different sort of experience wherein the actual workshop participation is just one aspect of the package.

Some of these events now include social activities and travel to studios nestled in the mountains of Utah by the lake shore, a stone's throw from a beach on the coast of Hawaii and even on cruise lines sailing up the Pacific coastline.

A voice over workshop, for those who haven't attended one, is an opportunity to learn a new skill, technique, or side of the voice acting business that is usually offered over a weekend by instructors of voice over.

You could think of it as ongoing education (which it is) and a chance to realize talent that is just waiting to be explored.

Many veterans attend these workshops annually as part of their professional development, confirming that these educational events are not just for aspiring voice actors trying to make it in the biz, but for anyone who wants to challenge themselves and learn something new in an industry that is changing every day.

Going to a voice acting workshop is educational, good for your brain, helpful to your voice and as a very satisfactory fringe benefit, exceptionally fun!

That being said, is there anywhere you'd like to see some sort of voice over workshop / event take place?

Leave your ideal location here as a comment on the blog.

Thank you,

Stephanie

©iStockphoto.com/Eliza Snow

Live in and around New Hartford and want to get into voice acting?

Try out this introductory class "Getting Paid to Talk" on November 5th, 2007 taught by our friends at VoiceCoaches.com.

Remember reading about the team from Voice Coaches?

I just caught wind of a voice acting course being taught by John from Voice Coaches via the Community News for Oneida County on UticaOD.com. “Getting Paid to Talk” is an adult education class taught by the voice acting professionals from Voice Coaches, an industry leader in voice acting training.

The class lasts two and a half hours, a non-credit course, during which students will learn what it takes to become a professional voice actor including the basics of getting started, all the way through working in the studio, recording a demo, and landing jobs.

Class attendees will have an opportunity to record a mock commercial under the direction of a producer. The class is taught by instructor John Gallogly, Senior Creative Director for Voice Coaches.

Want to know more? Details Please!:

What: Introduction to Voice Acting Class "Getting Paid to Talk"
Instructor: VoiceCoaches.com Senior Creative Director, John Gallogly
When: Monday November 5, 2007 at 6:30 p.m.
Where: BOCES Consortium of Continuing Education on Middle Settlement Road, New Hartford
Contact: For information or to register, call 315-793-8696

If you get to the lecture, be sure to let us know what you thought by leaving a comment here on the blog!

Best,

Stephanie

Image © VoiceCoaches.com

Today may be Saturday, but all of our VOX Daily email subscribers will receive this on Sunday...

How very apropos :)

Allow me introduce to you Sunday Muse, a voice actor and children's cartoon voice over coach based in Toronto, Ontario Canada.

This morning (Saturday), I received an email from a coach in Toronto, Sunday Muse.

Who is Sunday Muse?

Sunday Muses is a children's voice acting coach who teaches workshops for kids aged 8-12 for cartoon voice acting on Sundays.

Sunday Muse (yes, that IS her real name) has a strong voice acting, film, television and theatre background. Her youthful appearance is helpful for working with kids and one listen to her 10 years of voice over experience as presented in her voice over demo and animation voice acting work on TV leaves no doubt to her talent and energetic performance.

What voice acting work has Sunday Muse done?

Sunday’s voice can be heard on tons of cartoons including: “Yam Roll” as Minamiko/March Entertainment, “Jane and the Dragon”/ Nelvana, Undergrads, Time Warp Trio/Soup2nuts, Cheer Bear/Care Bear Movies/Nelvana, Totally Spies, 6Teen, Peep, Jo-Jo’s Circus, Mona the Vampire, DiGata Warriors, Rolie Polie Olie/Nelvana, Wumpas World, Roboroach, Pecola, the Click, Angela Anaconda, Cyberchase, Harry & his Bucket of Dinosaurs, Erky Perky, Odd Job Jack, Carl Squared, The Wumblers, Future is Wild and many more.

Sunday also coaches kids for a variety of popular cartoons including "Super Why!" airing this fall by the creators of the ever popular children's educational series, "Blues Clues".

When and where are the children's cartoon voice acting workshops?

Sunday's workshops run from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Sundays and cost $195 (plus GST) per child to participate - this includes studio time. Kids will go home with a CD of their work from the class and also insider tips and hints to help them nail their next audition.

Sunday's next workshop runs on Sunday September 23rd at Clare Burt Studio located at 211 Yonge Street, 3rd Floor, and there are still some spaces available. She's noted that they tend to fill up quickly, so start talking about this at the dinner table now :)

If your child has always had a flair for the dramatic or is interested in using their voice to create characters like the ones they hear on their favourite TV programs, attending a workshop with Sunday may just be the ticket and get them on the road to stardom.

Here's how you can get a hold of Sunday:

Phone: 416-536-6071
Website: SundayMuse.com
Email: sundaymuse @ hotmail.com

Best wishes,

Stephanie

Image © SundayMuse.com

Have you met Johnna Gottlieb?

If you haven't, she's pals with Joan Baker, teaches a VO class at New York University and is going to be on Voice Over Experts this September!

Find out more about Johnna and her class that runs this Autumn.

I'm very excited to introduce you to one of our newest Voice Over Experts, Johnna Gottlieb of Johnna Gottlieb Consulting in New York.

I just caught wind that Johnna's NYU class “The Business of Voiceover” is now open for enrollment for the Fall 2007 semester. The first class begins Wednesday, September 26th at 6:45 p.m. and runs through December 4th.

Are you serious about finding out what it takes to make it in the voiceover business?

Johnna confides that this is the course to take. Her network of contacts includes top agents, voiceover talent, casting directors and producers who come to her classes as special guests, presenting you with an opportunity to get your questions answered by the people who "make this industry tick". In addition, you will have the chance to read voiceover copy for these industry professionals and get feedback about your skill level.

Guests have included:

The Legendary Don LaFontaine – Voice of over 5000 Movie Trailers
Rodd Houston – Voice of Verizon Wireless, Subway, VH-1, NBA on CBS
Joan Baker – Author “Secrets of Voiceover Success”
Bill Graves – Voice of ABC’s Nightline and Primetime
Tim Champeaux - Voice of Jenny Craig, Today Show Concert Series
Jim Kozloff - Director of Talent and Business Development at VH-1
Stewart F. Wilson Turner – Co-Creator of voicebank.net
Voiceover Agents from Don Buchwald & Associates, Abrams Artists, Paradigm and Innovative Artists
Producers from Miramax Films, ESPN, BET, HBO, NBC Sports

These people have a firm grasp on what it takes to become a successful, working voice over actor.

Click on these links to learn more about Johnna Gottlieb and the class at NYU.

Best wishes,

Stephanie

This Fall, why not treat yourself to some voice over training over the phone in movie trailers and promos?

You don't have to be in New York or Los Angeles to take advantage of this teleclass series brought to you by A1 voice talent, Rodney Saulsberry.

Learn more about how you can Spice up your September now.

One of the most thrilling career achievements for the voice over actor is to become the promo voice for a TV or cable station (or network) and to break into the lucrative world of movie trailers. Finding training for this specialty used to be difficult, but not any more!

Rodney Saulsberry is offering instruction to 12 participants on a first come basis, taught over a teleconference phone line. Dial in from the comfort of your home or office; it's that easy.

Your call-in information and class workbook will be sent when your registration is confirmed.

Class details:

Six Weeks on Thursdays
Dates: September 20 - October 25, 2007
Time: 8-9 p.m. Eastern Time / 5-6 p.m. Pacific Time

Tuition: $695 paid in advance at time of registration.

Now, for some highlights!

* Direction from a seasoned pro on how to read promos and trailer copy.

* Marketing strategies aimed at securing work in the promo and trailer arena.

* Comprehensive industry contact lists of promo and trailer production companies.

* Vocal exercises designed exclusively for promo and trailer voice-over workouts.

* Instructions on how to produce your promo and trailer demo.

* You get to read and keep the original broadcast copy from hit movies and hit television shows.

* Learn trailer breathing and microphone techniques.

For more information about Rodney, you can visit his website or listen to Rodney's Voice Over Experts podcast episode.

Best,

Stephanie

In the spirit of wrapping up the summer with some voice acting classes as we turn away from August running for September, here's another one you don't want to miss...

Sacramento, watch out, a Whirlwind of Voice Over in the form of Julie Williams is due to hit on September 16th!

Half of the infamous Voice Over Whirlwind Weekend duo, Julie Williams, will be presenting her Proven Voice-Over Techniques workshop in Sacramento, California this September.

Julie will be covering tips on how to use your voice professionally, coloring words, and also touch on marketing your talent in the business of voice over.

Learn more about previous experiences from a Voices.com review session on Julie Williams' Proven Voice-Over Techniques.

To register, go to Julie's website.

Best,

Stephanie

Were you on the call for the first lecture from Nancy and Anna on Acting for Advertising?

If not, be sure to jump in on the highly anticipated sequel tonight!

We covered this on VOX Talk (episode 42) last week, but I wanted to remind everyone that tonight, August 29th, Nancy Wolfson and Anna Vocino will be lecturing on Acting for Advertising, part II of their series on the subject.

The cost to participate on the call is $39 and the value you receive is amazing. I’ve been privileged to sit in on some of their teleseminars and recommend that you do too!

The class starts at 9 p.m. EST / 6 p.m. PST and lasts for 75 minutes. There is a 15 minute period of Q&A that follows the class, so stay on the line to get answers to your burning questions.

Also, Voices.com will be sponsoring this teleseminar, donating one copy of The Ultimate Business Plan for Voice Actors to be given to one fortunate voice actor attending the teleseminar - another great reason to join in the class :)

For more information and to register, go to BreakIntoVoiceOver.com.

Best,

Stephanie

If you're in Dallas or planning to be for September 15-16, 2007, it is worth your while to consider attending a voice over workshop instructed by Bettye Zoller, a weekend she promises to be exceptional and requested by popular demand.

Learn more about the workshop agenda, socialization and food that comes with the weekend!

As of today's date, (Monday August 27) there are six spaces left in September 15-16. Enrolling is easy and you can do so by telephone, email, or at Bettye's website using MasterCard or VISA. If mailing check or Money Order, ask Bettye for instructions first. There's even pick you up at your hotel if you are from out of town, so no rental car is needed.

If you enroll for the weekend, you'll attend two seminars: The Business of Voiceovers and Voice Acting Techniques for Today, catered to meet your needs on an individual basis, whether an amateur or professional voice actor.

Here's a note from Bettye about the conference agenda:

Saturday begins with continental breakfast... fruit, juices, delicious gourmet rolls and pastries, milk, hot coffee and more. Get acquainted and meet your colleagues who are also interested in or are performing voiceovers! The morning session consists of information on our business... where the jobs are and how to get them... the Internet revolution and how our business has radically changed, working with broadcast agents in many cities without ever leaving home, advertising yourself to those who hire voices, developing loyal, repeat clients, how to get the most money for your services, what vo talents are charging today, and a discussion of unions (AFTRA and SAG). After a group lunch in a nearby restaurant, we'll start the afternoon highlighting hands-on copyreading while you are coached and directed by Bettye Zoller and Surprise Guests!

You will announce solo and group copy pieces, learning more about voice attitudes and all kinds of voice acting techniques that will set you apart from others because of your higher skill levels! We'll work on believability, sincerity, character development, voice focus, vocal variety, and much more. We'll also work on helping you identify your SPECIAL UNIQUE VOICE ATTRIBUTES. You'll leave with an amazing handout packet and assigned work for the evening to prepare for tomorrow's workshop!

On Sunday we start at noon with buffet brunch items and all day beverages and coffee. The day will consist of more business information and more voice acting instruction too plus you'll be showing us your homework assignments. You'll have plenty of time to ask questions and get personal attention to your needs. The day will end about 4:30 p.m. You will be provided with more handouts to take with you to work on on your own for continuous improvement after our workshop has ended.

If you'd like to learn more, contact Bettye at her website.

Stephanie

P.S. Listen to Bettye's lecture on Voice Over Experts about crafting your Elevator Speech.

What do you look for in a workshop?

We've compiled a brief survey that will give you the opportunity to make your voice heard! Let us know your opinions on what you prefer, what you're looking for, and also just how important food and socialization is at these events!

Want a workshop to come to your neck of the woods? Participate in the Voice Acting Workshops Survey Now.

For over a year, we've been providing details about voice over and voice acting workshops across Canada and the US, creating schedules of what's going on where and linking to the websites of the voice over coaches mentioned in those articles.

Now, I'd like to ask you some questions about how we can make this information more complete and better accessible to you online.

Let me say in advance that your participation in this survey is greatly appreciated.

The answers you provide will assist our network of voice over coaches and experts in planning their workshops as well as help us to better promote voice acting workshops here at Voices.com.

With the information you provide, we'll be able to present more opportunities catered to your professional development goals.

Thank you!

Stephanie

©iStockphoto.com/bubaone

Today, we had a wonderful afternoon reviewing Julie Williams' CD "Proven Voice-Over Techniques" at Voices.com with several voice actors.

For our first "live" hosted event, I'd say it went pretty well!

Hear more about it here on VOX Daily.

Earlier this afternoon we hosted six fabulous local voice actors at a review session for Julie Williams' "Proven Voice-Over Techniques" workshop CD, with some talent joining us from as far as Kitchener and Waterloo.

We started with some meet and greet activities and Voices.com team member Carol Mroz led an icebreaker so that we could all get to know each other better. Of course, when you combine pizza, caffeinated beverages, and voice actors, the ice nearly breaks itself :)

You may be thinking "My goodness, those voice actors consumed dairy products and caffeine!"! Generally, this is a no-no for most people who use their voice to make a living, but today, the mic wasn't on and it was all about learning, meeting new people, and having a great deal of fun while doing it.

Who was there?

Vince Londini, Randy White, Michele Dyck, Pete Newman, Jorge Mendoza, and Bob Purssglove were there with several members of the Voices.com team including Laurynda Vineyard, Erica Bontje, Carol Mroz and myself.

Here's a picture I took later on, but since we're on the topic of who was there, I'll insert it just below. We were on the phone with Julie Williams at this point, listening intently as she told us a story and shared more tips about voice over marketing.

Voice actors in attendance represented a wide variety of niches within the biz including radio personalities, narrators, Spanish voice talent, commercial and telephony voice over talent, creating a wonderful mix of people who were very much at ease and able to relate to each other.

In between tracks, we'd take breaks to discuss the material presented which often segued into other conversations about technology, marketing and how to use your voice.

During one of these instances, the question of "Should I invest in an ISDN line or Source-Connect" came up, one that is being asked quite a bit more these days with the new (and less expensive) technology on the market.

It was conversations like these with banter or "talking shop" that really helped to unite our band of guests and believe me, we could have talked all day! I'm sure you've experienced similar things if you have visited with a group of people with like interests in the same field.

One aspect of Julie's CD was about promotion and production of voice over demos. Everyone found these insights very useful and also appreciated the "Coloring Words" segment to help them really give life to the copy that they read.

Toward the end of the workshop, we drew for a prize pack courtesy of Julie for her "How to Make Money in Voice-Overs Even if You Don't Live in New York or L.A.". Bob Purssglove was the fortunate recipient and was able to thank Julie personally on the phone when we dialed in to speak with her around 3 p.m. It was lunch time where Julie was in California, and although she was very busy, was able to chat and answer any and all questions that people had about the techniques and marketing ideas discussed on the CD.

One of the greatest takeaways (aside from a reviewers copy of the CD and chocolates!) for everyone there was the new sense of community that they now felt within their own locale. It was fun for us too as we got to put faces to the voices and really get to "talk" to our customers in person and one on one.

I took a brief survey following the review and by all accounts there is quite a demand for more of these review parties and or events!

That's great news as there is nothing that we love more than connecting with you and being part of the voice over community.

I want to publicly acknowledge my team members, Carol, Erica and Laurynda for helping out and making this event truly memorable for everyone in attendance. I also want to thank David preparing all the goody bags, picking out awesome colors for the helium balloons and ensuring that the workshop ran smoothly from a technical perspective.

Of course, we are indebted to Julie Williams, one of the most genuine and kindhearted people in voice over. Without Julie's desire to host a workshop, send free CDs, a prize pack and her token voice-over chocolates, this event would not have been possible.

For those of you who couldn't make it, there will be similar events in the future, not to worry! We can easily put on events like this here in London and are also open to traveling a bit to reach more of you who are unable to attend at our headquarters here in the 519.

Any requests for a Voices.com workshop in your city?

Add a comment and leave the location you'd like to see a Voices.com workshop hosted in. Maybe we'll make it out to your neck of the woods!

Best wishes,

Stephanie

Keeping things all in the family, we thought we'd invite members of the Voices.com family who can make it to London on July 21st, 2007 for a very special review opportunity of voice over coach Julie Williams "Proven Voice-Over Techniques" CD.

To learn more about this event, keep reading!

If you are from London, ON Canada and the surrounding area and are a member of Voices.com, we'd be honoured to have you at the UWO Research Park this coming July 21st, 2007 between 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. for our review of Julie Williams' "Proven Voice-Over Techniques".

You may know Julie from hearing her on VOX Talk and Julie's lectures on Voice Over Experts as well as through various articles here on VOX Daily.

Julie has been a member of the Voices.com family of voice over talents for several years and we are privileged to present you with the opportunity to review her newest release of Proven Voice-Over Techniques!

This review session is limited to 15 participants. To reserve your spot, email me ( stephanie@voices.com ) or leave a comment here on the blog.

More information will be given to those who register for this educational event at Voices.com :)

Best wishes,

Stephanie

While many kids and teenagers may be singing the refrain "School's Out For Summer", there are still workshops and classes going on in the world of voice acting for you to participate in.

If you are craving professional development, check out some of these courses being offered in the final days of June, and the months of July and August, 2007!

Just because your kids, nieces, nephews or grandchildren have ditched their books for the next couple of months doesn't mean that you have to do so too!

We've consolidated many of the learning opportunities going on in the next couple of months here on VOX Daily to give you an idea and preview of how you could be spending the Dog Days of Summer.

For simplicity's sake, here is your Summer 2007 Voice Acting Workshop Schedule in chronological order:

June 30, Fort Myers, FL - Welcome to the World of Voice Over - Randy Thomas

June 30, NYC, NY - Voice Over Immersion - Joan Baker

July 7 (4 classes starting on Saturday July 7), Boston, MA - Voice-over Toolbox - DB Cooper

July 7 (free seminar), Sherman Oaks, CA - All About Voice Over - Becky Bonar

July 9 (free seminar), Sherman Oaks, CA - All About Voice Over - Becky Bonar

July 14, Los Angeles, CA - Voice-over Workshop - Rodney Saulsberry

July 21-22, Los Angeles, CA – "Silly, Serious & Subtle" An Animation, Interactive & Audiobook Character Voice Event - Pat Fraley

July 21, NYC, NY - Voice Over Immersion - Joan Baker

July 21-22, Dallas, TX - The Business of Voiceovers & Voiceover Techniques for Today's Worldwide Marketplace - Bettye Zoller

July 23, Dallas, TX - Character and Cartoon Voice Techniques - Bettye Zoller

July 28, Dallas, TX - Singer's Workshop - Instructor: Bettye Zoller

August 4-5, Buffalo, NY – 56 Slick Tricks/9 Critical Skills Event - Pat Fraley

August 11, San Francisco - Voice Over for Teens - Elaine Clark (Voice One)

August 11, Los Angeles, CA - Voice-over Workshop - Rodney Saulsberry

August 17, Los Angeles, CA – Dan O'Day Radio Summit - Pat Fraley participating

August 18, NYC, NY - Voice Over Immersion - Joan Baker

August 26-27 Calgary, AB Canada - Creating Voices 1 (Private/demo sessions Aug 24 or 28 near sold out) - Deb Munro

~~

If you know of any other classes going on that are not mentioned here, send me an email at stephanie@voices.com and I'll gladly update this page :)

~~

About the Instructors

Joan Baker

Joan is the author of Secrets of Voice-Over Success: Top Voice-Over Actors Reveal How They Did It. She's been teaching and lecturing nationally for over 12 years and is one of New York's top coaches and voice-over professionals. Clients include HBO, Olay, NBC Sports, ABC News, Learning Annex, Nickelodeon, and American Express. Joan is also available for private coaching.

Becky Bonar

Becky Bonar has been an award-winning writer/producer/director for radio commercials and promos since 1984, both with Dick Orkin and The Radio Ranch, and as a freelance talent. Also, Becky is a voice over actress, currently with the William Morris Agency, where, prior to returning full-time to the Ranch, was a Booth Director for two years. Becky Bonar has taught in various workshops in the Los Angeles area, and is looking forward to developing an acting-based curriculum for the new school.

Elaine Clark

Elaine Clark is an award winning actor, director, producer, certified teacher, playwright and the author of the quintessential voice-over book, There's Money Where Your Mouth Is, in addition to being the owner/founder of Voice One. As an actor, she is a member of SAG and AFTRA, having performed in hundreds of voice-over and on-camera commercials, industrial narrations, video games, cartoons, film and made for television movies. She also serves as an audio engineer, casting director, and multimedia & anime director.

DB Cooper

DB Cooper is a voiceover artist as well as a film and stage actor, director, and radio personality. She’s a staff commercial announcer for WBZ Radio and traffic reporter for a number of Boston-area radio stations. DB does character voices and sound effects for web comics and interactive games, is the call center voice for Northeast Utilities, and has provided voice for corporate video, web presentations, and television commercials.

Pat Fraley

Patrick Fraley has created the voices for over 4,000 characters, placing him among the top ten performers of all time to be cast in animated programs. He has taught voice over for 30 years and holds his workshops in L.A., San Francisco, and New York. His is the only character voice curriculum ever to be accredited at the university level. He holds an MFA degree in Acting from Cornell University, and is a member of the Voice and Speech Trainers of America.

Deb Munro

With over a dozen years in broadcasting, 5 years in animation/freelance voicing and over 6 years training in acting both on and off camera, Debbie Munro is able to offer a unique perspective into the Voice-Over industry. Debbie is able to incorporate her incredible training, her broadcasting degree, years in theatre and on camera acting, experience as a Casting agent and more into doing what she loves best, spreading her passion for this incredible industry.

Rodney Saulsberry

Rodney Saulsberry is the author of the best sellers, You Can Bank on Your Voice and Step up to the Mic. The voice of Twix Candy Bars, Toyota Avalon and the Zatarain’s Jazzman, is also in demand worldwide for his voice-over coaching and commercial workshops. For more than two decades the Detroit native and University of Michigan graduate has given voice to many movie trailers such as, Finding Forrester, How Stella Got Her Groove Back, Dumb and Dumberer, The Best Man, and Friday After Next. As an announcer, he has worked on the NAACP Image Awards and the Essence Awards television specials. Saulsberry, the voice of Joe Robbie Robertson on the cartoon series Spider-Man, resides in Agoura, California.

Randy Thomas

Randy Thomas is one of the most recognized female voices in America. Randy has the distinguished honor as the first and only woman to announce the biggest and most prestigious award show in the world not once but six times including her most recent return in 2005 for the 77th Annual Academy Awards. In 2006 Randy returned to the Tony Awards in NYC for her sixth consecutive appearance as announcer. The American Film Institute brought Randy back for her fifth time to announce their continuing series of “100 Years...100 Greatest Movies.” Randy can be heard daily on Entertainment Tonight and The Insider television shows from Paramount Television.

Bettye Zoller

Owner, voiceover professional and educator Bettye Zoller, with 35 years experience as a degreed educator (colleges and universities, workshops, private coaching and consultations) and 50 years as a professional performer. Bettye began at age five when she was signed as a contract player and went to school on the famous movie lot at MGM Studios in Hollywood. Bettye is the owner of Voicesvoices Educational Events and the Voicesvoices Recording Studio in Dallas. Bettye also is a professional audio engineer, producer and a Simon and Schuster audio author and narrator.

©iStockphoto.com/Dragasanu Mihai Octavian

Looking for a great workshop in Lake Tahoe?

Pat Fraley and Julie Williams are teaming up to present you with two awesome days of classes in their Voice-Over Whirlwind Weekend on June 23rd and 24th with a very special (optional) demo producing session on June 25th, 2007.

When I chatted with Julie a week ago, there were only 3 spots left in the Saturday / Sunday workshops a the Voice-Over Whirlwind Weekend!

Here's a breakdown of each day, courtesy of the Voice-Over Whirlwind Weekend:

Pat Fraley's Cartoon Voice
Saturday June 23, 2007

Cartoon Voice is based on the only character voice curriculum in the country that has been accredited at the university level. The method Pat teaches will prepare you for character voice opportunities in ANIMATION, INTERACTIVE/GAMING, COMMERCIALS, and AUDIOBOOKS.

All workshop materials are supplied including a bound workbook, and a download of your recorded tracks. Lunch provided. Limit of 12 participants guarantees you more individual attention!

THREE SPACES LEFT!

Workshop Highlights:

• Learn how to break the character voice down and manipulate the six elements for versatility.
• Create unique, evocative character voices from visual, oral, and written sources.
• Learn to develop "psychological agendas" for your characters.
• Identify Character Archetypes, the "Casting Common denominator" for commercials and cartoons.

Julie Williams' Proven Voice-Over Techniques
Sunday June 24, 2007

Workshop Highlights:

• Overview of the VO business
• Julie's 1-2-3 start
• Techniques that set you apart
• Getting REAL
• Marketing yourself
• Using the internet to grow your business

Proven Voice-Over Techniques is a comprehensive hands-on workshop that covers specific techniques for copy interpretation and making your copy come alive. Techniques taught in this workshop span all genres of voice-over. From commercial, to narration, interactive, etc. You'll refine your craft with tools that will set you apart from those who audition against you.

Limited class size ensures that each attendee receives a lot of individual attention.

If you'd like more information about cost, method of payment and studio location, download the Voice-Over Whirlwind Weekend PDF here.

Best wishes,

Stephanie

Emerald Bay image ©iStockphoto.com/Jay Spooner
Pat Fraley Image © PatFraley.com
Julie Williams Image © Voice-Overs.com

Live in or around Toronto and want some voice over training from a real pro?

Guess what? We're bringing Debbie all the way from Beautiful British Columbia to Toronto, Ontario!

To register for Mic & Me in Toronto on June 9th and 10th, 2007, simply click the "Register Now" button to get started on the road to learning from and working with top Canadian voice over coach Debbie Munro!

See you there :)

Over the weekend (June 9 - 10, 2007), Debbie will be teaching a two-day Voice Workout workshop catered to all levels.

The Voice Workout gets students behind the microphone using professional equipment, taking direction from one of the top instructors in North America.

Using her knowledge and passion for the industry, Deb Munro will direct participants through their scripts, pushing them more than thought possible, regardless of a students level. Debbie will also share tips on how to help develop strong professionals and introduce practical tools to use over and over.

Staying on top with the current trends is easy when you are in the know with Debbie Munro!

Details:

To sign up on a per day basis, the cost is CDN$212.00 and the fee for both days is CDN$375.00. Prices will go up after June 4th, 2007 to $250 on a per day basis and $424 for the weekend, respectively.

Lunch is provided by Ryerson for $12 per day.

The Mic & Me Workshop will take place at Ryerson University’s International Living Learning Centre in Toronto, ON Canada on Saturday June 9th and Sunday June 10th, 2007. Classes run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday.

Here's a Google Map to Ryerson University for those of you outside of Toronto (Front entrance is on Jarvis and the back entrance is on Gould):

Best,

Stephanie

Are you a Canadian voice over talent in Ontario?

Have you been looking for a workshop to attend that you didn't have to travel to the USA for?

Voices.com is bringing top voice over coach Debbie Munro and her Mic & Me Workshop series to Toronto this June! Learn more about this awesome opportunity here at VOX Daily.

We're teaming up with top Canadian voice over coach Debbie Munro to present Debbie’s Mic & Me Workshop, a two-day intensive voice over education that covers vocal technique and the business of voice over itself.

Over the weekend (June 9 - 10, 2007), Debbie will be teaching a two-day Voice Workout catered to all levels.

The Voice Workout gets students behind the microphone using professional equipment, taking direction from one of the top instructors in North America.

Using her knowledge and passion for the industry, Deb Munro will direct participants through their scripts, pushing them more than thought possible, regardless of a students level. Debbie will also share tips on how to help develop strong professionals and introduce practical tools to use over and over.

Staying on top with the current trends is easy when you are in the know with Debbie Munro!

So, when and where is this all happening and how much does it cost?

There are options to either attend on a per day basis or to register for both days of the Mic & Me Workshops in Toronto.

To sign up on a per day basis, the cost is CDN$212.00 and the fee for both days is CDN$375.00. Prices will go up after June 4th, 2007 to $250 on a per day basis and $424 for the weekend, respectively.

The Mic & Me Workshop will take place at Ryerson University’s International Living Learning Centre in Toronto, ON Canada on Saturday June 9th and Sunday June 10th, 2007.

To learn more or register for the workshop(s), contact Voices.com by calling 519-488-5575 or emailing stephanie@voices.com. PayPal payments are accepted (before I had said VISA and Mastercard, but that's just through PayPal - edited May 24).

Register For the Mic & Me Workshop in Toronto

Debbie is taking about 12 students per day, so these spots will fill up soon!

Looking forward to seeing you there!

Here's a Google Map to Ryerson University for those of you outside of Toronto (Front entrance is on Jarvis and the back entrance is on Gould):

Best,

Stephanie

Photo © Debbie Munro

Ever wondered what advertisers really expect of your voice over talents?

Want an insider's view on the topic?

Join Nancy Wolfson and Anna Vocino on Monday May 7, 2007 for another stellar Break Into Voice Over teleseminar, sponsored by Voices.com.

What does it take to really make it in the voice over business?

Through their interactive teleseminars, Nancy Wolfson and Anna Vocino serve up the truth about what voice talents in the new world of voice over need to equip themselves with, both as artists and businesspeople.

Their next teleseminar is on May 7, 2007 at 9 p.m. EST (6 p.m. PST) “Acting For Advertising”, created specifically for voice over talents, also known as “The Only Way To $ell”, will teach participants how to acquire the necessary techniques that advertisers require voice talent to bring to the microphone.

This will be the first time ever in a teleseminar that Nancy Wolfson will share two key chapters from her private curriculum.

Exciting stuff!

Four randomly drawn participants who have submitted a demo will also be treated to Nancy’s “Agent Ears”, receiving a review of their voice over demo with constructive criticism and contagious enthusiastic encouragement.

Many of your peers at Voices.com agree that time and money invested with Nancy and Anna is well worth every penny. For only $49, you'll be learning the ins and outs of what it takes to sell a product with your voice and much more.

This particular teleseminar is 90 minutes in length and includes a question and answer period as well as demo reviews for four lucky participants. All you need to do is send your demo after you've registered for the teleseminar to Nancy via email to qualify.

So, the next time someone asks you what you're up to on Monday night, you'll be able to say that you're on a call with Nancy Wolfson and Anna Vocino among a number of your colleagues getting some of the best VO education in the biz!

To register, go to BreakIntoVoiceOver.com.

Cheers,

Stephanie

Ever been on an animation weekend?

How about a voice-over intensive one?

If you live on the East coast, you have the opportunity to do so early this May 2007!

Join Bob Bergen for a weekend you'll never forget in New York City May 5 & 6.

While we're talking about Bob, he has a wonderful animation voice over weekend coming up in New York!

Here are the details:

Date: Saturday May 5 and Sunday May 6, 2007
Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Location: Startrax Recording Studio, New York City, NY
Tuition: $400 total (includes both Saturday and Sunday)

* A non-refundable $100 deposit is necessary to reserve a spot (check or money orders - no credit cards, please) with the balance due at the start of the seminar.

Once the class is full, if you'd like to audit / observe the workshop you may do so for $75 per day.

You'll learn:

• Mic audition techniques
• How to create and sustain characters
• Do's and Don'ts of demos
• Tips on the business of the business
• Agent / Client relationships

and much, much more!

For booking information, contact Bob Bergen at bob (@) bobbergen.com

Note: Please include "NYC Weekend Workshop" in the subject line.

A member of the Canadian contingent that came to VOICE 2007 in Las Vegas, Debbie Munro has some insight to share with you!

Find out what one of Canada's top VO coaches thought of the VOICE conference.

As Deb says, "We discovered that we’re still in the baby steps of something huge about to burst."

I met Debbie Munro in person for the first time in Las Vegas.

She flew in from British Columbia and we came roaring on a jet plane from Ontario...

Funny meeting in the US, eh?

To give you some background on Debbie, she is currently represented by Deborah Harry Talent and has been teaching across Canada for the past 5 years as a voice instructor/acting coach.

All patriotic lingo aside, I'd like to publish this note I received from Deb today about what she took from the experience at VOICE 2007 and also some insight regarding the future of the industry itself:

After spending a week at the first of it’s kind Voice Over Convention in Las Vegas (VOICE 2007) it is my duty to tell you to get on board soon if you want to make into the world of Voice Over.

We discovered that we’re still in the baby steps of something huge about to burst.

Even Celebrities have taken an interest in next years event and each US union (including interest from ACTRA) has climbed on board to recognize the growth and opportunity in this generous and exciting craft of Voice Over.

This event was much bigger than we anticipated and it was my honor to represent Canada at this prestigious, historical and life changing event.

If you’ve been told that there is no work available in Voice Over, let us prove different.

Allow us to show you the opportunity available outside of your local market and in the comfort of your own home. We are teaching you the skills necessary to advance in this wonderful craft but also the equipment and means to begin your own home studio business.

It takes a lot of work to get there, but starting now puts you in the veterans circle.

We predict BIG things to come in voice over due to technology and instructors/talent spreading the word and spreading the work.

This is a rare industry full of happy, excited, generous and talented individuals who leave their egos at the door.

All our best,

Debbie Munro & The Mic & Me Team!

Been looking for an opportunity to study with Rodney Saulsberry?

Have we got the perfect solutions for you!

Check out Rodney's teleclasses and on location workshops, starting as early as two weeks from now. Reserve your spot now!

I had the immense joy of meeting Rodney and getting to know him better at VOICE 2007.

You can read more about the Rodney Saulsberry VOICE 2007 Lecture on VOX Daily.

Before leaving for the conference, Rodney has sent me this earlier in the month to let you know about different classes he is offering this Spring and Summer.

You are welcome to read more about the courses below or visit Rodney Saulsberry's website to select the class that fits your schedule and needs.

You can take a teleclass and study from the comfort of your home or you can book a trip to sunny California and join Rodney in one of his commercial voiceover workshops.

Class: Promo and Trailer Teleclass (six weeks)
Dates: Thursdays, April 19 through May 24
Time: 8-9 p.m. Eastern Time / 5-6 p.m. Pacific Time

Class: Commercial Intensive Teleclass
Dates:Thursdays, June 7 through June 21
Time: 8-9 p.m. Eastern Time / 5-6 p.m. Pacific Time

Class: Voice-Over Workshop - One Day Only
When: Saturday July 14, 2007
Duration: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Lunch will be provided.
Where: Los Angeles, California. Studio location TBA.

Class: Voice-Over Workshop - One Day Only
When: Saturday August 11, 2007
Duration: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Lunch will be provided.
Where: Los Angeles, California. Studio location TBA.

For more information and to sign up, go to Rodney's website, http://www.rodneysaulsberry.com.

Let me know how your experiences are if you attend or participate in the teleclasses!

Best,

Stephanie

At the halfway point for the conference, there's been lots to celebrate!

Find out what's going on at the VOICE Conference at VOX Daily, and remember...

What happens in Vegas, doesn't have to stay in Vegas!

It's the end of another jam-packed day here in Las Vegas at the first ever VOICE Conference!

Each day has brought with it amazing presenters, exciting door prizes and the glorious opportunity to meet people within the industry, putting faces to the voices we know so well.

Let me start off with the opening of the conference on Tuesday night. Those of us who arrived early had the chance to register and pick up our goody bags, which I must say were quite impressive.

A part of those bags included an AFTRA lanyard for our name tags. I've included a picture of mine here for you to see.

Everyone has a red AFTRA lanyard, so it is really easy to find people who are associated with the conference. As you can see, our team took the liberty of designing our own name tags for the event - pretty spiffy, eh? You have to know the back story :)

Highlights from the first full day of lectures included a crowd pleasing performance by Rodney Saulsberry, a thorough and candid overview on developing your voice over career and self-evaluation by Connie Terwilliger, and some marketing "Love Notes" from Frank Frederick, whom I might add is an avid hugger (all of you here can agree with that!).

I plan on meeting with AFTRA while I am here to ask some key questions. Now by the way is your opportunity to let me know what some of yours are so that I can bring them to their attention and get some answers for you!

The evening carried on with a touching tribute to Lennie Weinrib, an actor, voice actor, and most importantly, loving father and grandfather. Linda Weinrib, Lennie's daughter, and also a voice talent, was present to share her memories and give us a different perspective into her father's illustrious career and personal life. I'll be posting more about Linda and Lennie Weinrib in the coming days.

Day two, which we've just completed was also one for the books.

Highlights included a lecture by Chris Wagner about voice over and the web, Pat Fraley and his slick tricks smuggled out of Hollywood (you really need to see this one when it comes out on DVD!), and an afternoon with Penny Abshire and James Alburger, teaching everyone about the art of voice acting and the seven core elements of voice over that when combined, create the sound and style you need to get work in voice overs.

The man of the hour later that evening was The Don - that's right, Don LaFontaine. AFTRA sponsored his visit with us and many were taken aback by meeting such a legend in person. I got to meet Don and he's agreed to an interview via email (we ran out of time for questions). I'll get more on Don's visit and eventually the interview up for you as soon as I can :)

By far, it's meeting our customers that has brought us the most excitement. To name a few that come to mind this late at night (it's now 11:50 p.m. PST), Bob Souer, Kara Edwards, Jay Buck, Rob Young, Liz de Nesnera, Bobbin Beam, Moe Egan, Kera O'Bryon, John Pruden, Rick Reid, Connie Terwilliger, Penny Abshire, Curt Byk, Dan Lenard, Michael Rhys, Mike Forrester, Bettye Zoller, Amy Snively, Melissa Frank, Derek Partridge, Gregory Best, and T David Rutherford. Please forgive any omissions at the tolling of midnight - they are not intentional - you know me :)

Tomorrow night, we're being treated to a performance by Bob Bergen, the current voice of Porky the Pig. Again, I hope to bring you more insider info on the show and of course, a conversation with Bob Bergen to share with you.

I just wanted to make sure that I got something out to you. It's been a bit of a drought these last couple of days, eh? I thought to myself that come what may, I had to get something out to you tonight.

I can't wait until I post more for you. It's been such a blast. Carol, Laurynda, and I have been taking notes during each lecture and have so much to share with the rest of the team when we get home and also with you here on VOX Daily.

I'll be blogging individually on each lecture - just give me some time for the dust to settle!

If you're here at the conference and want to leave a comment about how your experiences have been thus far, please do so!

Looking forward to hearing from you,

Stephanie

Any Canadian voice over coaches in the house?

From sea to sea to shining sea, this land was made for voice over and the teaching of it!

If you teach the art of voice over in Canada, leave a comment on this post for potential students!

Many of you are now aware of Harlan Hogan's voice over coaches list. That being said, we received a request from Blair Wilson (and others in the past) about where to find Canadian voice over coaches.

In this great country of ours, surely there are dozens of you... there just hasn't ever been a "list" for Canadian coaches as such before until now :)

Get on the Canadian voice over coaches list at Voices.com by introducing yourself at VOX Daily.

Leave a comment with a link to your website, the city you teach in and business contact details.

Looking forward to meeting and working with you,

Stephanie and the Voices.com Team

Hey Dallas VOs:

2007 Voicey Finalist Bettye Zoller has two classes you may be interested in attending this March.

A class for Cartoon and Character Voices as well as Audiobook Narration Training will be offered soon.

Check them out here!

At Voices.com, one of our goals is to connect you with voice over events and and educational opportunities that are happening around the country, continent, and of course, in your own backyard.

If you live in Dallas, TX, you may already be familiar with Bettye Zoller and VoicesVoices.

Here are a couple of classes you can attend this March with Bettye.

Cartoons and Character Voices

Date: Saturday March 3
Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Dallas, TX
What: Cartoon and Character Voices
Description: Ms. Zoller teaches her new workshop "Cartoon and Character Voices." You'll find out the best way to practice your characters and cartoon voices, how to develop new ones, how to imagine and create characters and approaches to not only animated work but how to voice commercials in a new way with these amazing techniques. She's been developing this workshop for over one year and has presented it once to rave reviews. This "by popular demand" repeat will sell out, so enroll soon! Small group. You'll even work with scripts from major films, TV, more!
Fee: $299; deposit of $150 holds your place.

Audiobook Narration Training

Date: Saturday March 24
Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Dallas, TX
What: Audiobook Narration Training
Description: By popular demand, Ms. Zoller again offers for only the second date, her popular "Audiobook Narration Techniques" workshop. Small group. Hands-on copyreading of many types of scripts. Take-home materials include publisher information and what your audio book narration vo demo should be and much much more.

Did you know: According to a recent AFTRA study, the field of audiobook narration is now number one in the "where the jobs are" category?

Fee:$299; $150 deposit holds your place.

For more information, please contact Bettye Zoller.

Best,

Stephanie

P.S. If you are a coach and have classes that you'd like to share with everyone, email me directly ( stephanie @ voices.com ) with your class information and I'll include it here on VOX Daily.

Peter O'Connell of audio'connell wowed PodCamp with expert advice and hot tips on recording equipment, teaching the crew about PodPresence.

PodPresence

It was my pleasure to be able to meet up with Peter O'Connell at PodCamp and hear his lecture on how to make your podcast more listenable. My seat mate was none other than Elaine Singer, a wonderful lady and voice talent you should all get to meet. (You can watch the video of the session by clicking on Peter's name a couple of sentences prior to this one).

To kick off his 30 minute talk, Peter discussed the basics, including equipment and recording software.

Here's a list of the equipment needed for podcasting:

• computer
• good sound card
• audio software
• usb (or firewire) connections are easier
• some brands to consider include m-audio Creative Technology, Alesis, Tascam and Digidesign

Peter said that you don’t want to ignore the sound! Most computers have an OK sound card. If you can't hear things very well on your computer, you will need to get an external sound card. What good is trying to get your message out if nobody can hear it?

Sound cards are priced between $35 - $200.

Hot Tip: Microphones can be bought for 300-400 dollars less than retail price when purchased from reputable people at eBay. There are sources out there aside from retail that will save you a lot on your bottom line.

Audio Software is:

• the heart of your production and the key to shaping the sound that you want
• depending on the level of commitment, there are a lot of choices that you have to work with

So, what should you use?

Beginners: AUDACITY is free ( http://audacity.soundforge.net ) or ePodcast Creator 2.0.62

~ Free and practical for basic voice recording

Advanced: Adobe Audition or ProTools

~ Free demos on download.com or visit digidesign.com or adobe.com

Microphone / mixer

You get what you pay for on mics ($50 - $300 for a pro name brand)

There are two schools on mics:

A list of high branded microphone producers who have some really good headsets that you can buy right now:

• Audio-Technica, Shure, AKG
• Handheld on stand
• Podcaster mic from Rode

Using USB microphones makes it easier to plug the recording directly into your computer; all the more portable (and convenient), but make sure it has good sound.

Headphone jack right in the microphone allows you to hear the sound coming right into the microphone - Rode.

If you have more than one presenter on your show, get a mixer.

Alesis and Yamaha make reasonably priced, good quality USB and firewire mixers. Full mixer, mic, headphone sets start at $250
~ bsw ( http://www.bswusa.com/podcastsolutions/)

Moving right along, it's time to get serious with your show and voice:

Organization = Credibility

You’re the expert but sounding like one doesn’t mean that you need a great voice. The listener needs to understand what they are going to learn or experience from listening to your podcast. The most important thing is that your message is heard and understood! Articulate!

Don't ramble... in some podcasts, this may be desired, but the majority of listeners favor more structured and content rich programs that keep their attention, not veer off in all directions.

Setting up the rundown

Take these factors into account:

• Respect peoples time
• Take them down the road in a logical sequence of events
• Set an agenda for your podcast episode
• Establish a running time for the show

What is a reasonable running time for your show? Will they stay with it for however long? Think about that as you are doing your rundown. Planning ahead will save lots of time editing your podcast.

Throughout the program, ask yourself:

How will my audience like this, not like this, respect this, understand this?

When these factors are not taken into consideration, you may end up with an unlistenable podcast.

Sound options to consider

The production:

Defining your podcasts’ objective/ purpose/audience will help you know how you want to design sound elements in the show.

Consider:

Intros, outros, breaks, segments

* Professional doesn’t mean conservative

Your on-air sound

Although nearly everybody hates how they sound, your listeners will be more forgiving if the content is great.

Hot Tips:

• sound like you only a bit bolder
• picture / imagine who you are talking to - a picture of a friend on a wall or something like that.
• posture (sit up straight), diction, and language

Again, if you want to watch Peter's lecture video from PodCamp, visit this link to get to the page where you can stream the video.

Cheers,

Stephanie

Attention Dallas talent: Bettye's giving two workshops this month... want to know more?

Bettye Zoller of VoicesVoices.com has been kind to send in her workshops for the month of February.

If you subscribe to the VOX Talk podcast, you may recognize Bettye Zoller as the voice over coach who presented some audio feedback encouraging you to follow your dreams in the VOX Box segment for VOX Talk Episode 11.

Each of the workshops is held in Dallas, TX with Bettye Zoller instructing.

Take a look to see if either of these workshops interest you:

Business of Voiceovers Workshop: Strictly Business is presented in Dallas Feb. 17. Bettye Zoller, leader. Learn how the business works worldwide! Fabulous take-home packet includes agent and producer lists!

Voice Acting Techniques Workshop: Voicings for Today is presented in Dallas Feb 24th. Bettye Zoller, leader. Guest teachers too. Hands-on copyreading in wide variety of vo genres!

Bettye has also submitted her workshops for the month of March, so keep your eyes on her website or this blog for updates.

For more information or to register, visit Bettye's website.

Cheers,

Stephanie

P.S. Bettye will also be speaking at the V.O.I.C.E. Conference this March in Las Vegas, lecturing on "Finding Your Voice in the Audio Book Industry".

Get ready for Break Into Voice Over!

A couple of weeks ago, I listened in on a teleseminar for Break Into VoiceOver, a new service provided by Nancy Wolfson of Brain Tracks Audio and Anna Vocino, professional voice talent and working VO actor.

The teleseminar was free, a half hour long, and for the time allotted gave an impressive overview of how the voice industry has changed and the state of Voiceover today.

For those of you who know Nancy Wolfson, she has a unique perspective on the industry.

Nancy started out on the other side of the business as an agent. For quite some time, Nancy was head of a voiceover department at an agency in Hollywood, where she noticed that there was an alarmingly large intersection between auditioning and booking.

Recognizing the massive gap between what people were being taught to do in classes and what she knew in her heart of hearts was really going to book that job pushed Nancy to switch career paths and start a crusade to help break through gatekeeper agencies, and by doing so, ensure that great voices were heard and cast.

By providing voice talent with vital information that she knew as a former agent, Nancy would assist to close that gap and help voice talent establish profitable careers.

She retired from agency work in 2000 to start a private consulting service and carry out her mission to help voice talent succeed.

Nancy Wolfson currenly casts for voiceover projects and coaches people who are interested in pursuing voiceovers. Nancy also produces demos for students who have completed her course and have demonstrated that they are ready to enter the market.

Anna Vocino, a professional voice talent and student of Nancy Wolfson, has been asked on a daily basis how to break into voiceover, hence the name of their new venture.

Anna, who describes herself as a Girl Who's Been-There-Spent-That, wants to make sure that those who are just breaking into the voice industry are armed with the information that they need in the new era of voiceovers, identifying costly mistakes she has made in the past that she wants new talent to avoid.

This project has spent a year in development and the two ladies are moving ahead full steam with their second 2-hour teleseminar this evening (6 p.m. PST) focusing on the Business of VoiceOver.

The teleseminar will give aspiring talent a plan to work from, spelling out what you need to do, what you need to do it, and what to expect to spend.

Topics discussed this evening will include: education, budgets, demos, equipment, marketing strategies and pipelines, when to spend, when to save and when to see results.

With two hours to get into the subject matter, be sure to have your computer handy or a notebook to jot these nuggets of wisdom down. I know that during the half hour that Nancy and Anna spoke last time, I personally took 5 pages of notes in Microsoft Word - and that was just an overview of the state of voiceover today!

I will be sharing more of their insights as time goes by from that particular teleseminar, but for now, I simply wanted to get the word out about their teleseminar scheduled for this evening on the business side of voiceovers.

So, here are the specifics:

Teleseminar: Mapping Your Voice Over Business Plan
Date: Wednedsay January 31st, 2007
Time: 6 p.m. PST (9 p.m. EST)
Cost: $49
Register: Go to BreakIntoVoiceOver.com to register online via PayPal

* Call-in number will be emailed to you upon confirmation of your paid spot.

We're pleased to help promote Los Angeles Voice Coach Nancy Wolfson's free teleseminar to take place on January 17th, 2007! Reserve your spot now.

Join Nancy Wolfson and Anna Vocino on Wednesday January 17th, 2007 at 7 p.m. PST (10 p.m. EST) for a free, 30 minute teleseminar entitled:

"The State of Voice Over Today"

Nancy and Anna suggest that you have a pen and notebook handy to jot down aspects of the seminar that interest you.

Topics to be discussed include home studios, agents, regional work, NY / LA, union vs. non-union, demos, casting, branding, voice prints and more.

Space is extremely limited. The call-in number will be emailed to you upon confirmation of your reserved spot.

To secure your spot for this free teleseminar and signup via email, visit:

BreakIntoVoiceOver.com

Cheers,

Stephanie

Think you have the voice for promos and movie trailers? Check out Rodney Saulsberry's teleclass.

This week, I had a chance to chat with Rodney Saulsberry, author of "You can bank on your voice" and the voice of television promos and numerous movie trailers such as, How Stella Got Her Groove Back, Finding Forrester, Tupac Resurrection, Friday and Dumb & Dumberer.

Rodney is teaching a 6-week teleclass on Thursday evenings starting on January 11th through February 15th 2007.

Seating for this teleclass is limited to 12 participants on a first come basis (3 spots are remaining as of January 2nd). Participants can dial in from the comfort of their home or office. Call-in information and class workbook will be sent when your registration is confirmed.

Rodney's curriculum is as follows:

Week 1: The Hard Sell Promo Read

Week 2: The Soft Sell Promo Read

Week 3: The Dramatic Promo Read

Week 4: The Dramatic Trailer Read

Week 5: The Comedy Trailer Read

Week 6: Movie Reviews Trailer Read, Interstitials, EPK's and other exciting aspects of the Trailer world.

Each week you will receive six scripts and be instructed to pick one of them to read aloud twice during our session.

Rodney will direct you for your first read and critique your next read. Your second read should reflect your ability to take direction and give you an idea of what you need to work on to be better at the next session.

Extra perks include:

Home studio discussions
Voice-over marketing techniques
New cable stations and networks
Finding your signature voice

Recap

Class: Rodney Saulsberry's Promo and Trailer Teleclass
Dates: Thursdays, January 11, 2007 to February 15, 2007
Time: 8-9 p.m. Eastern Time / 5-6 p.m. Pacific Time
Where: From the comfort of your home or office
Tuition: $695 paid in advance at time of registration
Click here for more information and to register

Want to know what's going on this month in Voice Acting 101?

November 4-5, N.Y. - The Audiobook Master Event (Pat Fraley)

November 11, L.A. - The Ned Lott ADR/Looping Event (Pat Fraley)

November 11, Dallas - Voice Acting Techniques (Bettye Zoller)

November 18, San Francisco - Marketing Wizardry (Elaine Clark with David Menashe and J.S. Gilbert.)

November 18 and 19, L.A. - Game World Event: Voicing Games and Working the Market (Pat Fraley)

About the Instructors

Pat Fraley

Patrick Fraley has created the voices for over 4,000 characters, placing him among the top ten performers of all time to be cast in animated programs. He has taught voice over for 30 years and holds his workshops in L.A., San Francisco, and New York. His is the only character voice curriculum ever to be accredited at the university level. He holds an MFA degree in Acting from Cornell University, and is a member of the Voice and Speech Trainers of America.

Bettye Zoller

Contact Bettye Zoller, instructor, by phone or email or enroll in the store on her website. A deposit of $100 holds your place with balance of $125 due at the workshop. Small group. Learn techniques of voicing a wide variety of voiceover projects used today. Hands-on copyreading practice solo and ensembles... Learn what today's CD voiceover demo should be and much more. Includes catered continental breakfast and delicious lunch! Ten a.m. to four p.m.

VoiceOne Elaine Clark

Elaine Clark is an award winning actor, director, producer, certified teacher, playwright and the author of the quintessential voice-over book, There's Money Where Your Mouth Is, in addition to being the owner/founder of Voice One. As an actor, she is a member of SAG and AFTRA, having performed in hundreds of voice-over and on-camera commercials, industrial narrations, video games, cartoons, film and made for television movies. She also serves as an audio engineer, casting director, and multimedia & anime director.

Don't miss The Masters Advanced ADR/Looping Event with Pat Fraley in Los Angeles on January, 21, 2007 (updated).

The good news is pouring in!

Students who have participated in this dynamic event are now reporting in with the news of ADR work in Seattle, Vancouver, San Diego, The Bay Area, Denver, Phoenix, Dallas, Chicago, Atlanta, Charlotte, Toronto, NY, and Boston.

There is not a region in North America that doesn't hire actors and voice people to do ADR/Looping for film and video projects.

Sure, LA is the MECCA for ADR work, and other cities aren't looping Disney's next Blockbuster – but anime, documentaries, industrials, and independent films all need ADR, and there are Post-Production Houses to meet their needs spread across the US and Canada.

There is work available to those who are trained. What better way to introduce yourself to the powers that be by letting them know you have been trained by the best in the country in the best facility in LA?

Thanks for the class!! I just did my first paid looping/ ADR session in SAN DIEGO.
Lisa Renee Pitts, LA Talent

I'm booked at Skywalker ranch all day today for a Looping/ADR session on a Warner Bros. Feature for KBA. Thanks for the great instruction and giving me a leading edge!
DC Goode, Sacramento Voice Talent

The Master's ADVANCED ADR/Looping Event

This is an all-new ADR/Looping Event designed to take you to the heights of ADR skills. In ONE DAY, you will learn all you need to know about Group ADR Work and Re-Voicing.

Conducted by a team of Masters who know how to get it done:

Terri Douglas: Leading casting and ADR session Queen, casts and conducts sessions for films like Disney's Chicken Little, The Haunted Mansion, The Cat Returns, The Wild, Santa Claus II and III, and ON and ON and ON. She'll be guiding the participants through the exact methods she uses on the stage for Disney.

Ned Lott: Senior Manager of Disney Character Voices, involved in directing and casting ADR Sessions for Disney/Miyazaki projects such as, Howl's Moving Castle, Porco Rosso, Whisper of the Heart, along with casting involvement on The Chronicles of Narnia. He'll be teaching how to re-voice characters on the screen.

Eric Thompson: ADR Engineer who will guide the technical side of the event with the expertise that can only come from over 20 years of experience. Eric has engineered the ADR for hundreds of diverse films and TV projects, ranging from Ghostwriter, Sin City, Empire Falls, Hustle & Flow and Sideways to lighter fare like The Adventures of Sharkboy and Lavagirl and Garfield 2.

Patrick Fraley: Voice-Over Talent, Teacher, supplying inside skills and techniques from his 30 years doing voices for feature films such as Disney's Toy Story II, Monsters Inc., Chicken Little, The Wild, and Miyazaki's Princess Mononoke. Along with Ned, he'll be sharing his method of re-voicing characters up on the screen.

Pat Brady: LA Voice-Over Talent Agent, is the Co-chair of the Animation Department at CESD L.A. On the ADR/Looping front, she works daily, booking actors with Barbara Harris and Leigh French to name a few. Pat has been an agent for 26 years, and is one of the most knowledgeable people in the industry in regards to working the ADR / Looping / Sound-Alike aspects of voice-over. Pat is donating time to spend with us for a Q&A Session.

Event Highlights

- Work on LA's Premiere Professional ADR Sound Stage. Wilshire Stages in Los Angeles, where the producers and directors of major films and television programs choose to do their post-production with a collection of FRESH animated and live action feature films splashed up on the screen.

- Learn Advanced Re-Voicing, Special Techniques & Insider Tricks, and Ensemble Work.

As an encouragement to travel into Los Angeles, I'll “pickup” gas money, or at least a leg (or ankle) of air travel by taking $100.00 off this event.

If you are interested, please get back to me (Pat Fraley) ASAP, as enrollment is limited.

Cost: $795. FOR YOU, $695. Check, Cash, Credit Cards - payment schedules arranged upon request.
Place: Wilshire Stages. 640 South San Vicente Blvd., LA 90048
When: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM on January 21, 2007.
Workshop is limited to around 16 participants (sign up now! This will fill rapidly).
To Enroll: patfraleyteaches (at) aol.com or call 818.400.3733

I'll recommend accommodations near the Sound Stage, and help you figure out transportation.

Regards,

Pat Fraley

Curious about the business side of voiceovers? Head down to Dallas, TX this October and attend a workshop that is strictly business with Bettye Zoller of VoicesVoices!

Is your calendar open this October 28th? If so, and if you're in the Dallas area, pencil in a workshop with Bettye Zoller of VoicesVoices on Saturday October 28th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The class is called: THE BUSINESS OF VOICEOVERS: STRICTLY BUSINESS!

You'll find out where the jobs are, how to obtain agent representation in many U.S. regions, how to work via Internet sites such as www.Voices.com and get in the game today.

You'll be able to explore new voiceover genres, including telephone messaging, videogames, websites, podcasts, and much more. You will also discover how to quote for voiceover work on a per project basis.

Bettye will send you home with a wealth of materials, all included with your participation fee of only $235. A deposit of $100 will hold your place.

As this class is open to a small group, Bettye encourages you to enroll now before this workshop is sold out.

The location of this workshop will be revealed only to paid participants to avoid walk-ins.

If for some reason you can't make the October Business of Voiceovers: Strictly Business workshop, you'll get another chance to attend on Saturday December 2nd, 2006.

Best,

Stephanie

What's going in voice-overs this October? Click to find out!

October 12 - Small Group Workout (VoiceOne)

October 13 - Intro: Starting Out (VoiceOne)

October 14-15; 21-22 - By the Book (VoiceOne)

October 15, L.A. - The Advanced Masters ADR/Looping Event (Pat Fraley)

October 18, California - Basic All-Animation VO (Dolores Diehl)

October 19-26 - Audio Books 1 (VoiceOne)

October 21, Toronto - The Voice-over Workout (Mike Kirby)

October 21 - Sketch Comedy (VoiceOne)

October 24 - Stepping Out (VoiceOne)

October 27, Dallas - THE BUSINESS OF VOICEOVERS: STRICTLY BUSINESS! (Bettye Zoller)

October 27-28 - Musical Literacy (VoiceOne)

October 29 - On-camera Audition Workout (VoiceOne)

October 30 - December 18 - ADR / Looping II (VoiceOne)

About the Instructors

Dolores Diehl

Dolores has performed for, and has taught voice acting to more than 100,000 men, women and children in live classes and professional audiences of from 6 to 700 people. Dolores has also taught on Closed Circuit Educational TV and across the Country by phone. She teaches and directs her Basic Voiceover Workshops in Commercials, Animation, Narration and Audiobooks, and manages all of her other workshops, from intermediate through professional levels, personally selecting the Directors.

Pat Fraley

Patrick Fraley has created the voices for over 4,000 characters, placing him among the top ten performers of all time to be cast in animated programs. He has taught voice over for 30 years and holds his workshops in L.A., San Francisco, and New York. His is the only character voice curriculum ever to be accredited at the university level. He holds an MFA degree in Acting from Cornell University, and is a member of the Voice and Speech Trainers of America.

Mike Kirby

Mike Kirby and Associates will teach you everything you need to know to begin a career in commercial voice work. This workshop is a survey course of the commercial voice industry taught by professional Performers, Directors, and Producers. All sessions are in-studio on microphone. Personal work in session will be recorded to CD for home review. Class size is limited to 8 Performers. Everyone welcome.

VoiceOne Elaine Clark

Elaine Clark is an award winning actor, director, producer, certified teacher, playwright and the author of the quintessential voice-over book, There's Money Where Your Mouth Is, in addition to being the owner/founder of Voice One. As an actor, she is a member of SAG and AFTRA, having performed in hundreds of voice-over and on-camera commercials, industrial narrations, video games, cartoons, film and made for television movies. She also serves as an audio engineer, casting director, and multimedia & anime director.

Bettye Zoller

25 years as a professional recording studio singer and voiceover talent! Let Bettye show you how to start or jump-start your career! Bettye has been a private voice coach for nearly 30 years. Jingle / studio singing (and coaching for singing performers and songwriter-singers) are by private lesson appointments and periodic workshops.

New to the industry and need some tips? Read this comprehensive guide on what you'll need to get started and develop your talent for voice overs.

When getting started in voice overs, aspiring talent quickly discover that it takes more than just a great voice to succeed in this highly competitive market.

Although at first glance, there may seem to be few doors that open for amateur talent seeking voice over work opportunities, the avenues for personal growth, talent development and networking are overly abundant.

You just need to know where to find them.

The notion of becoming a voice over talent usually starts with a compliment from a friend, colleague, or family member. When someone hears similar sentiments from people outside of familiar circles, the individual is inspired to make an action plan and thoroughly research the voice over profession.

Aspiring voice over talent can find a wealth of resources and guidance from a variety of sources on the Internet. There are several good websites online that share information about the industry, providing solutions to nearly every "Getting Started" voice over question and career development resources. These resources may manifest themselves in an array of business templates, strategies, and eBooks.

If an aspiring voice over talent desires to fully explore voice overs as a career, there are multiple ways to research the field without having to leave the comfort of home. Some of these research methods include visiting the websites of professional voice over talents, listening to voice-over demos online, and reading up on what industry leaders have to say, including coaches, agents, authorities, and casting directors.

There's an abundance of voice over blogs online that reveal what it is really like to be in professional voice overs, providing excellent insight into what can be expected if one were to enter the voice over profession. Many professionals freely discuss their career objectives and thoughts about the industry as a whole, personal observations and their career progress.

Voice overs are very busy not to mention employed in an extremely popular field. The majority of professional voice overs do not have time to lead an aspiring talent by the hand and personally consult them regarding their voice and potential career prospects. Professionals often link to other helpful blogs or voice over industry websites. These links are available to aspiring talent as a means to discover more comprehensive resources that will aid them in starting out as a voice over talent.

Although reading the blogs or visiting websites of professional voice overs may be a fun, leisurely activity, your research should lead to more hands-on and educational endeavors such as contacting a voice-over coach.

A voice over coach will be able to identify what your voice type is, the kind of work you'd be best suited for, and will assist you in developing your vocal range, both artistically and technically.

Voice Over Coaches

Make an appointment with a voice over coach. They will be happy to assess your voice and set up a training program for you at their studio. Going with a private voice over coach has its benefits. Who else could provide an objective opinion on your voice, tailored vocal instruction, specific guidance, and career resources on such a personal level?

A voice over coach will help focus in on your strengths and develop your talents. Sometimes it takes someone else to let you know where you shine as a voice actor and the areas of voice acting that aren't necessarily your forte.

A voice over coach will also be able to identify your specialty skill sets, and if you would like, help you to plan and record your voice over demo. These preliminary efforts will define your voice over career at present and help you to provide extraordinary voice over services to your future clients.

As with anything valuable to your development, a voice over coach will charge fees for their services. When selecting a voice over coach, don't let their coaching fee be the sole deciding factor regarding whether you study with them or not. The fees that you pay should also provide you with a comfortable learning environment, a teacher who you can relate to, and the voice over skills that you want to acquire.

Workshops and Tele-classes

Some people prefer to meet in person, taking lessons in a group. A workshop is an open class that is run by a voice over instructor and attended by voice overs who want to improve particular skills, such as character voice acting, for example.

These workshops are often followed by a question and answer period. The environment is often more casual and free-spirited than a private lesson and enables you to network with people within your field, perhaps even meet colleagues who will become your friends.

Usually there is a cost for participating in a workshop to pay for the instructors' time, materials, and the venue. These fees can vary, but expect that in most cases, there will be a fee for the workshop.

Tele-classes are taught over the telephone. When participating in a tele-class, all you need to do is dial in to the phone number that your instructor will provide you with, and enter the class number for your specific class. Be sure that you do this on the date and at the time that your class is scheduled for.

There may be special code that you'll need to dial after calling in to be routed to the right tele-class, similar to how you would check the numbers on the door if you were looking for a classroom in a building. Once you're in on the call, the instructor will greet everyone, introduce the program, start teaching, and then have question and answers period. Bear in mind that there may be a fee associated with a tele-class.

These classes are convenient for voice over talent who do not live in large centers or have access to voice over coaches in their city.

Voice Over Communities

If you would like to network with other voice overs and aspiring talent, you can glean information and feedback from each other in person, through Internet chat groups, or by posting on voice over support forums.

These kinds of communities of professional and aspiring voice overs chat with each other about vocal technique, recording equipment, job opportunities, and more.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of joining a peer support group is that you can share experiences with fellow voice overs, learn at your own pace, and if you're in a position to do so, give insight to other voice overs.

Voice Over Books

One of the easiest and fastest ways to get a handle on the voice over field and voice industry as a whole is to sit down and read a good book. Aside from either going to the local library or ordering a book or voice-over eBook online, there isn't much legwork.

Good voice over books will help you with technique and some also guide you from the ground up, including how to brand yourself, how to record voice overs, be found on the Internet, promote your voice, make money as a voice over, operate your business, and give you the encouragement you need to get going.

Another good idea is to locate a royalty-free voice over script collection. You will need one to record your first voice over demo from. These scripts are also good for practicing with either on your own or with a voice teacher.

Getting started in voice overs is more complicated than one would think, but for those who succeed in this career field, it is one of the most satisfying, flexible, and lucrative professions in the world.

Best wishes,

Stephanie

Technorati Tags: voice overs, voiceovers, voice over, getting started, getting-started,

The first and only Dialect System designed specifically for Voice Over, held on Saturday September 23, 2006 in Hollywood. Four masters guide you through the invaluable voice over skill of dialects!

What's in demand this fall in the Voice Over Market?

More than any other time in the last ten years, accents and dialects are required for Animation, Games, and Audiobook jobs.

Pat Fraley has organized a blockbuster class that will teach you about the invaluable voice over skill of dialects.

Saturday, September 23, 2006 (Limited to 12 participants. Sign up now! This will fill rapidly.)

There will be four Dialect masters present, including:

LARRY MOSS - The nation's premiere dialect coach to the stars, including Drew Barrymore, Cameron Diaz, Matt Dillon, Dakota Fanning, and Brad Garrett. He has taught for over 30 years and for several years co-taught with Mel Blanc.

PATRICK FRALEY - has taught voice and dialects for 32 years. Patrick's performance of the audiobook version of "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" called for 43 dialects and over 100 characters, and was heralded as "The Best of this Evergreen Ever" (People Magazine). Pat has created voices for over 4,000 characters, placing him among the top ten performers of all time to be cast in animation.

HILLARY HUBER - One of the most successful commercial voice over performers in the industry. Hillary also produces, directs and performs audiobooks where she is called upon to wield dialect after dialect. Her performance of the audiobook, "The Light In The Piazza" called upon her to switch back and forth from Southern U.S. to Italian and a Southerner speaking Italian. Author of "Piazza," Elizabeth Spencer commented, "I don't know how she does it. I want her to do all my books."

ANDREW MORRIS - The premiere producer/engineer in Hollywood records your best work in pristine quality. With over 36 years of experience, Andy gets it right.

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

-How to determine your own dialect in minutes.
-How to effectively come up with a viable, essential dialect within an hour.
-Extended recording time - lay down your best efforts at British, Irish, Russian, German, and N.Y. dialects.
-Learn the most requested Character-Types for each dialect.
-Insider tips on preparing and performing dialects.
-Hear dialect examples from film clips, and learn how to discern between "the good, the bad, and the ugly."
-Receive an Essential Sound Change & Lilt Sheet on each dialect taught.
-All materials are supplied - Event Workbook, and a master CD of your recorded work.

Cost: $595.
Place: The Famous Buzzy's Recording in Hollywood
(6900 Melrose Blvd. - three blocks east of Highland Ave., on the northwest corner of Melrose and Orange)
When: 10:00-6:00 Saturday, September 23, 2006
To Enroll: patfraleyteaches (at) aol.com or call 818.400.3733.

Cheers,

Stephanie

P.S. If you go, be sure to leave a comment about your experience!

Voice Acting workshops in September.

Sept. 2nd, Dallas - The Business of Voiceovers (Bettye Zoller)

Sept. 4th, Toronto - Acting Speech Gymnastics (Sarah Boes)

Sept. 5th - Basic Workshop (Dolores Diehl)

Sept. 5th, Toronto - Accent Reduction, Voice and Speech (Sarah Boes)

Sept. 6th, Toronto - The Voice-over Workshop (4 sessions) (Mike Kirby)

Sept. 6th, Toronto - Acting Speech Gymnastics (Sarah Boes)

Sept. 7th, Toronto - Accent Reduction, Voice and Speech (Sarah Boes)

Sept. 9th - Advanced Video Games VO (2 sessions) (Dolores Diehl)

Sept. 9th, Toronto - Acting Speech Gymnastics (Sarah Boes)

Sept. 9-10, Boston - 9 Critical Skills & Masters Character Voice Event (Pat Fraley)

Sept. 9-16 - Making it M.I.N.E. (VoiceOne Elaine Clark)

Sept. 10 - Intro: Starting out (VoiceOne Elaine Clark)

Sept. 10-24 - Ear Prompter/OCN (VoiceOne Elaine Clark)

Sept. 11th - Extended Animation VO (6 sessions) (Dolores Diehl)

Sept. 12th - Extended Commercials VO (6 sessions) (Dolores Diehl)

Sept. 18th - Basic All-animation VO (Dolores Diehl)

Sept. 19th - Advanced Commercials VO (7 sessions) (Dolores Diehl)

Sept. 23rd, Los Angeles - Masters Accent on Dialect Event (Pat Fraley)

Sept. 23rd, Toronto - Cartoon Voice Saturday (VoiceWorx) (Jessie Thomson and Debra Toffan)

Sept. 24th, Vancouver - Introductory Workshop, 3-6 p.m. (Britta Wenske, Vocalis)

~~~~

Sarah Boes

Students will learn how to hear, see and feel the difference between their pronunciation and the non regional dialect/career speech they are learning. Students will learn the IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) a critical component to accent reduction, creating a Standard American sound, and mastering dialects. Students will be able to transcribe any script, monologue, presentation into phonetics and be able to read, write, and pronounce the dialect simultaneously. This course is a must for anyone wishing to work in the American market and an asset to anyone wishing to improve their speech and presentation skills.

Dolores Diehl

Dolores has performed for, and has taught voice acting to more than 100,000 men, women and children in live classes and professional audiences of from 6 to 700 people. Dolores has also taught on Closed Circuit Educational TV and across the Country by phone. She teaches and directs her Basic Voiceover Workshops in Commercials, Animation, Narration and Audiobooks, and manages all of her other workshops, from intermediate through professional levels, personally selecting the Directors.

Pat Fraley

Patrick Fraley has created the voices for over 4,000 characters, placing him among the top ten performers of all time to be cast in animated programs. He has taught voice over for 30 years and holds his workshops in L.A., San Francisco, and New York. His is the only character voice curriculum ever to be accredited at the university level. He holds an MFA degree in Acting from Cornell University, and is a member of the Voice and Speech Trainers of America.

Mike Kirby's VoiceWorx

Mike Kirby and Associates will teach you everything you need to know to begin a career in commercial voice work. This workshop is a survey course of the commercial voice industry taught by professional Performers, Directors, and Producers. All sessions are in-studio on microphone. Personal work in session will be recorded to CD for home review. Class size is limited to 8 Performers. Everyone welcome.

VoiceOne Elaine Clark

Elaine Clark is an award winning actor, director, producer, certified teacher, playwright and the author of the quintessential voice-over book, There's Money Where Your Mouth Is, in addition to being the owner/founder of Voice One. As an actor, she is a member of SAG and AFTRA, having performed in hundreds of voice-over and on-camera commercials, industrial narrations, video games, cartoons, film and made for television movies. She also serves as an audio engineer, casting director, and multimedia & anime director.

Britta Wenske

Voicestudio Vocalis offers Linklater-based voice-classes. For more information and registration visit or call 604 779 5245.

Bettye Zoller

25 years as a professional recording studio singer and voiceover talent! Let Bettye show you how to start or jump-start your career! Bettye has been a private voice coach for nearly 30 years. Jingle / studio singing (and coaching for singing performers and songwriter-singers) are by private lesson appointments and periodic workshops.

Tony Gonzales (formerly with Disney TV Animation Casting) will be teaching his 2-day Hollywood Animation Young Actor's Voice Acting Workshop on October 14 & 15! Although Tony's workshop is mainly for kids 8 and older, bigger (and much older) kids are also welcome.

If you're a Kid (or a kid at heart) and you've always wanted to do voiceover for animation, you won't want to miss this workshop presented by VoiceActing.com.

We received an email from James R. Alburger and are pleased to help promote this unique animation voice-over workshop for children. This workshop has a great poster. Take a look!

If you go, be sure to leave a comment on the blog about your experience.

Take care,

Stephanie

Lex Lang and Sandy Fox have teamed up to give your their spin on everything you wanted to know about voice acting. Three workshops are available this fall in Burbank, California.

I came across a press release on Anime on DVD this morning for Lex Lang and Sandy Fox's Voice Actor Boot Camp, a series of classes to be held this fall in Burbank, California.

All sessions are held on Saturdays at Bang Zoom! Studios. The duration of each session is one day only, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Choose from one of the following classes:

Saturday September 16th, Saturday October 14th, or Saturday November 4th.

The workshop will:

* Give you lots of experience working with microphones
* Unlock the secrets of getting a good agent
* Learn how to nail a voice acting audition
* Receive handouts on how to become a great voice actor and more.

Sandy Fox sent me some great details about the workshop, which I've included below:

"The Voice Actor's Boot Camp is a really great one day course in everything you wanted to know about voice acting. It was developed for people who have always wanted to be a voice actor, but did not know how to break into the business. The class is taught by Lex Lang, voice actor, writer and director and myself. We start by going over the tools necessary for getting an agent, making a good demo and voice over etiquette. The class encompasses the voice actor's career from commercials, TV promos, Walla for live action film and TV, mainstream animation to the intricate technique of Anime and dubbing. Each student will get time on the mike and receive direction."

To learn more about the workshop, visit the Bang Zoom! Studio Voice Acting School to contact the studio and register for one of the sessions.

About the Instructors

Lex Lang

Lex Lang is quickly becoming Hollywood's most in demand voice actor and director. His work is versatile and professional, and his vocal abilities include: Promos, Narration, Documentaries, Movie Trailers, Animation, Celebrity Voice Matching, Internet Multimedia, Games, Radio, CD-Roms and more.

Clients Include: Universal Pictures, Lucas Arts, Warner Brothers, HBO Pictures, CBS, The Discovery Channel, ABC, Disney, Home Shopping Network, MTV, Sony Pictures, NBC, Replay TV, Fox, IMf8AX, Fox Kids, Activision, 3DO, Kronus Digital Entertainment, Interplay, UBI Soft Entertainment, The Weather Channel, Porchlight Entertainment, VH1, The Family Channel, Digital Pictures, Saban Entertainment, Comedy Central, and the National Geographic Channel.

Sandy Fox

Sandy Fox has over 27 years of entertainment industry experience. She has been working in the voice over industry for such clients as FOX, Nickelodeon, Cartoon Network, NBC, PBS, Disney, Universal, Pioneer, Fox Kids, The Disney Channel, Geneon and Bandai.

Best,

Stephanie

Voiceover Workshops and classes for August 2006

August 5, Hollywood - Basic Video Game Voiceover (Dolores Diehl) *

August 12, San Diego - "The Business of Voiceover: Preparing for Your VO Demo, Marketing, and Promotion" - Penny Abshire; and "Building Your Home Studio" - James Alburger (this is a full-day workshop that includes both programs)

Aug. 15th & 22nd, West Burbank - Commercial Spanish Class with Spanish casting agent, 2 Tuesdays in a row (MJ Lallo)

August 16, Hollywood - Basic Animation Voiceover (Dolores Diehl)

August 19th & 20th, Dallas - Techniques of Voice Acting (Bettye Zoller)

August 29 - October 17, San Diego - "The Art of Voice Acting 8-week Workshop" (James & Penny)

August 30 - October 18, San Diego - “The Art of Voice Acting 8-week Tele-Course Level 1” (James & Penny)

About the Instructors

James R. Alburger and Penny Abshire (Commercial Clinic)

As a teacher, James R. Alburger works with people who want to break into voiceover. As a producer, he works with business owners and advertising agencies who use radio advertising, and with other clients who want exceptional sound design and audio production. As a director, James takes an actor’s initial performance to a new level through his understanding of the nuance of interpretation and timing. For more than 35 years James has worked with voiceover artists as a director, performer and studio engineer in Los Angeles and San Diego.

Dolores Diehl

Dolores has performed for, and has taught voice acting to more than 100,000 men, women and children in live classes and professional audiences of from 6 to 700 people. Dolores has also taught on Closed Circuit Educational TV and across the Country by phone. She teaches and directs her Basic Voiceover Workshops in Commercials, Animation, Narration and Audiobooks, and manages all of her other workshops, from intermediate through professional levels, personally selecting the Directors.

* Dolores' classes are ongoing sessions. Weekly sessions continue varying from three, five, six, or eight weeks. Classes with asteriks (stars) beside have irregular scheduling.

MJ Lallo

Mj Productions was established in 1983 in San Francisco. MJ has 23 years of experience in audio VO and music production for the advertising, entertainment and corporate market places. MJ Lallo is a VO artist, director producer, teacher and composer-singer. She has done voice looping for feature films and her unique vocalizing with digital processors won her three Addy Awards.

* All of MJ's classes are once a week from 7-10 p.m. Each class runs for five consecutive weeks at MJ Production Studios.

Bettye Zoller

25 years as a professional recording studio singer and voiceover talent! Let Bettye show you how to start or jump-start your career! Bettye has been a private voice coach for nearly 30 years. Jingle / studio singing (and coaching for singing performers and songwriter-singers) are by private lesson appointments and periodic workshops.

Ladies, want to polish your animation voice-over skills? Well, don't wait a minute longer. Read this post!

Here's a fantastic opportunity for you:

Susan Berkley (GreatVoice.com) is hosting a Women in Animation event at Edge Studios in NYC on July 29-30. Taught by Pat Fraley and Hillary Huber, the event also features an afternoon in the booth with Leslie Zaslower, the casting director for Nickelodeon!

This will be an exclusive, necessarily expensive, boutique style event for only 12 women. As of this morning there is only 1 space left. This is a fantastic opportunity for female voice talent (serious beginner through pro) to develop their own stable of highly marketable character voices.

You'll start working remotely with Pat before the workshop even begins and walk away with all your studio trax on CD.

The first 5 spaces were snapped up by women who had attended the last Women in Animation event in NY (including Susan). They couldn't wait to come back for more!

Truth be known, Susan has never considered herself to be a cartoon-y person. She made her career doing the "straight stuff"-- but now Susan Berkley is ready to come out of the box, expand her range and creativity for commercials, audio publishing, video games and the like.

This is your opportunity to hone your skills, too.

This event is well worth it for anyone who cares about getting the very best coaching for their career. Pat Fraley has done over 4,000 cartoons. He is also Nancy Cartwright's coach (the voice of Bart Simpson). In fact, some big name Hollywood Actors are studying with Pat and Hillary so they can book those lucrative animation gigs.

For further information on this workshop, visit Susan Berkley's website or call her office at 201-541-8595 during east coast business hours.

As I mentioned above, Susan told me that there is only 1 seat left and the event is this weekend.

If you go, have a great time!

Stephanie

Voiceover cruise set for 2007 has been canceled.

"Due to my work schedule I'm sad to report the 2007 voice-over workshop/cruise has been canceled. However, it will be rescheduled so please check back for updates. For those who expressed interest please email me at bob@bobbergen.com and I'll make sure to get in touch with you directly as soon as the next excursion is planned. Thanks!"

- Bob Bergen

*** To learn more about Bob's voiceover cruise, read the original entry below ***

I've been chatting back and forth with Bob Bergen recently and I have more details to share with you about his 2007 Pacific Coast Voiceover Cruise, due to set sail next spring, departing from Los Angeles, USA on April 29th and arriving in Vancouver, Canada on May 4th, 2007.

Bob's cruise was a hit last year, and this coming cruise promises to be just as good.

FYI: There are some extremely important housekeeping items that need to be addressed to ensure that you're good to go.

Most important: Deadlines! If you commit to going on the cruise now, you'll save money. Your deposit needs to be paid by August 16th.

If necessary, you can cancel up until January, and the balance isn't due til then. The ship will hold your cabin for the current prices if you put your deposit down by August 16th.

Please keep in mind that the ship has the right to raise the prices after August 16th, and Bob has no control over that.

Some very important details:

1. Book the cruise through the travel agent.

2. Book the workshops through Bob Bergen.

3. Mention that you heard about the VO cruise from Voices.com and Bob will give you 10% off the workshop fees (that includes just the workshops, not your cabin). That's a great deal!

Here's what some of Bob's 2006 VO Cruise participants had to say:

"I had a wonderful time on the 2006 animation voice-over cruise! Bob is generous and supportive. Fun, and funny, too!! I ’d love to do this again!"

"Very motivating and entertaining! I’d do it all again!!"

"What a great way to spend a "working" vacation! I felt a true rush of energy after the Sunday seminar."

"Thank you sooooooo much for putting together this cruise. I can only imagine how much work went into all of it. I had a great time and learned a lot. I really wanted you to know how much I appreciate your willingness to be so open with your time, feedback and talent . You are so good at challenging people to push themselves while at the same time keeping their self confidence up! That is not an easy thing to do (especially dealing with insecure actors!) but you were amazing at that. So thank you very very much."

For more information about contacting the travel agent and booking with Bob, click here to visit Bob's website.

Anchors away!

Stephanie

Well, you can find out on Saturday and Sunday, July 15 & 16 at Bob Bergen's Animation Voiceover Weekend Workshop. That's right . . . Bob Bergen, the official Warner Bros. voice of Porky Pig will be teaching his full 2-day workshop on voiceover for animation at The Commercial Clinic in San Diego.

Greetings,

James R. Alburger from the Commercial Clinic in San Diego sent some wonderful information about Bob Bergen's illustrious 2-day Animation Voiceover Weekend workshop hosted by the Commercial Clinic in San Diego.

What you need to know:

Bob's class is almost sold out. As of July 2nd, there are only 2 seats remaining!

There is a 3 1/2 year waiting list for Bob's Hollywood workshop, so if you really want to learn what it takes to work in animation voiceover, this may be your best chance to be coached by Bob. It will probably be at least another year before he returns to San Diego.

For complete information about Porky's . . . er, Bob's Animation workshop, please visit the VoiceActing.com website. You can even register on-line. James and Penny suggest you call first to make sure space is still available. If you register after the class limit is reached, your tuition will be refunded in full.

If you prefer speaking to a live person, call the Commercial Clinic at 858.484.0220 between 9am and 5pm M-Th and after 10am on Friday. You can even be registered over the phone (a good idea to secure the spot!).

Bob's Animation class is mentioned in our July VO Calendar too if this sounds familiar to you.

As James and Penny say, stay in character!

Cheers,

Stephanie

Find out what's going on where in July 2006!

Greetings,

This list is just a sampling of some of the educational opportunities available to you this month. If you don't see a workshop that you are attending here or your favorite coach is absent from the list, email me so that I can update the calendar!

To contact the coaches for more information, just click on their name in their bios below the listings.

Cheers,

Stephanie

July 1, Burbank - The Cashman Cache Beginner Class (Marc Cashman)

July 1-2, Driggs, Idaho - Creating Character Voice Workshops (Pat Fraley)

July 8, Burbank - The Cashman Cache Beginner Class (Marc Cashman)

July 11, Hollywood - Basic Voiceover (Dolores Diehl)

July 12, West Burbank - Beginning Animation Class (MJ Lallo)

July 13, West Burbank - Intermediate Commercial Class (MJ Lallo)

July 13, Hollywood - Basic Video Game Voiceover Workshop (Dolores Diehl)

July 15, Burbank - The Cashman Cache Beginner Class (Marc Cashman)

July 15-16, San Diego - Animation Voice Acting Workshop (Bob Bergen)

July 16, Los Angeles - The Disney Way ADR/Looping Event (Pat Fraley)

July 17, West Burbank - Beginning Commercial Class (MJ Lallo)

July 22, Hollywood - Advanced Video Game Voiceover (Dolores Diehl) *

July 22-23, Buffalo - Nine Critical Skills & Character Voice Master Classes (Pat Fraley)

July 26, Valley Village - Advanced Animation Voiceover (Dolores Diehl)

July 27, North Hollywood - Extended Commercial Voiceover (Dolores Diehl)

July 29-30, New York - Women in Animation Master Event (Pat Fraley)

About the Instructors:

Bob Bergen

Bob Bergen travels around the country teaching weekend animation voice-over seminars throughout the year. This is a jam packed weekend of nonstop work on how to create and sustain characters, breaking down animation copy, essential information on the business of the business, the demo process, etc. Plus, if you help put together a weekend seminar in your area you take the class for free!

Check out Bob's 2007 Pacific Coast VO Cruise, due to set sail April 29th - May 4th, 2007. Book now: there are only 60 cabins reserved.

Marc Cashman

Marc Cashman, Executive Producer at Cashman Commercials, has won over 150 advertising awards in the past 15 years, including the ADDY, IBA, SUNNY, INT'L RADIO FESTIVAL OF NY, SILVER MICROPHONE, BELDING, LONDON INT'L, and the prestigious CLIO on behalf of hundreds of clients across the country. Marc is a frequent speaker to Ad Clubs and Broadcasters Assocations throughout the U.S. and other countries and also donates his creative and production services to many charitable organizations. Biographed in Who's Who in California, Marc has taught at the undergraduate and post-graduate levels, and has been interviewed in trade magazines and newspapers and on numerous radio and television programs.

Dolores Diehl

Dolores has performed for, and has taught voice acting to more than 100,000 men, women and children in live classes and professional audiences of from 6 to 700 people. Dolores has also taught on Closed Circuit Educational TV and across the Country by phone. She teaches and directs her Basic Voiceover Workshops in Commercials, Animation, Narration and Audiobooks, and manages all of her other workshops, from intermediate through professional levels, personally selecting the Directors.

* Dolores' classes are ongoing sessions. Weekly sessions continue varying from three, five, six, or eight weeks. Classes with asteriks (stars) beside have irregular scheduling.

Pat Fraley

Patrick Fraley has created the voices for over 4,000 characters, placing him among the top ten performers of all time to be cast in animated programs. He has taught voice over for 30 years and holds his workshops in L.A., San Francisco, and New York. His is the only character voice curriculum ever to be accredited at the university level. He holds an MFA degree in Acting from Cornell University, and is a member of the Voice and Speech Trainers of America.

MJ Lallo

Mj Productions was established in 1983 in San Francisco. MJ has 23 years of experience in audio VO and music production for the advertising, entertainment and corporate market places. MJ Lallo is a VO artist, director producer, teacher and composer-singer. She has done voice looping for feature films and her unique vocalizing with digital processors won her three Addy Awards.

* All of MJ's classes are once a week from 7-10 p.m. Each class runs for five consecutive weeks at MJ Production Studios.

Audit a class for free this July at the "Cashman Cache of Voice Acting Techniques"

Greetings,

I'm pleased to share a resource that was just brought to my attention, coordinated and taught by Marc Cashman called "The Cashman Cache of Voice Acting Techniques".

Marc is encouraging anyone who is thinking about investing their time and money in a voice acting course to come and audit a class for free. Guests are given the opportunity to explore the facility in Burbank, California, and review some of the course content while getting acquainted with Marc's teaching style.

Extra copies of scripts are distributed so that guests can follow along, as well as additional copies of handouts.

The "Cashman Cache" can accommodate up to three guests per class, and the available dates are:

July 1st, July 8th or July 15th from 10AM-1PM.

If you'd like to attend, contact Marc to reserve a seat, and he'll send you directions to the studio.

The "Cashman Cache" Beginner course gives you the tools you need to:

--Analyze any script in minutes
--Direct yourself effectively
--Determine appropriate delivery in any copy
--Effectively "work" a microphone
--Perform consistently on each and every "take" and more

* Including the "Cashman Cache" V-O Report Card! *

Be well,

Stephanie

Whether you're starting out in voice-overs, honing your craft or would like to belong to an offline (face to face) voice actor community, this calendar is for you!

Greetings,

By popular demand, we've started a new section of the blog that will list upcoming master classes, workshops, lectures, and classes.

You'll be able to participate in educational activities and network with fellow voice actors. A month before each calendar month, you will be able to search through scheduled voice acting learning opportunities.

If you see something that you'd like to be a part of, just click on the instructors name and you'll be able to contact them for more information.

From what I can already gather, this is going to be a hot category!

Keep your eye out for July listings.

Cheers,

Stephanie

P.S. If you're a coach or instructor and we haven't met (by email, phone, or in person), introduce yourself to Voices.com and get listed on the blog!

Coaches, this is your opportunity to fill me in on what you're up to so that you can promote your workshops and courses on Vox Daily!

Greetings,

I was looking over the blog this morning and read a wonderful comment from Karen Commins on the audio book interview with Janis Panizza, and it got me thinking.

On any given weekend (or week day), there could be a voice actor workshop of some sort, be it audio book narration (such as Pat Fraley's recent audiobook masterclass in Los Angeles with Hillary Huber and Kimberly Breault), animation voice-overs, or interpreting copy for commercial work.

If you are an instructor and have a workshop coming up (or a series of scheduled workshops / lectures), send me a quick email and we'll blog about your programs.

We've had enquiries from voice actors about who to study with and how to find workshops specific to a particular voice-over niche.

Many of these individuals also desire to network with fellow voice actors in a friendly, educational setting offline (that is, in person, face to face) and develop offline communities to hone their crafts and be a support system for each other.

There is no better way to reach a substantial audience looking for these kinds of educational opportunities. Not only that, you'll be helping to establish small voice acting communities, connecting voice actors with each other. That's a win-win!

So, if this interests you, I invite you to email me directly with your upcoming schedule details and topics.

Including links to your website outlining your schedule would be fantastic.

Cheers,

Stephanie