In my over 20 years as a professional voice actor and coach I’ve found that all perceived obstacles can be surmounted with a solid plan and persistence. Doing only one or two things in any given area is not enough. For instance, if you want to narrate audiobooks: 1) take classes and obtain the necessary skill set and 2) make an audiobook demo. Now this is the point where many stop and do not understand why they are not working in this area. You must also: 3) join AudioFile and APA, 4) market to publishers, 5) work and then re-market and re-demo. Rinse and Repeat. And each of the above numbered points has at least 5 sub points.
I chose the number 5 because of its meaning and relevance. It is the symbol for divine grace. Music – the perfect 5th. Radio – 5x5 = perfect strength and clarity. Numerology – invention, creativity, play, harmony & balance. Chinese – the self, me. The 5 books of the Torah and Psalms. The 5 elements. 5 is a very powerful number that speaks to all aspects of our lives.
This series is a call to action and will speak to both the beginner and the seasoned pro.
I begin with “The Fundamentals”. I found in my coaching that I was repeating the same information over and over again. Yes, all of this information is out there – somewhere and it’s the somewhere that is the problem. I saw a need for a concise overview of the basics that a talent new to this area of the business needed to know. I thought I could record this and give it to my new students so that our work together could begin at a higher level. Then I realized that access to this information should be available to all – in one place. Voila! The Fundamentals was born. It is easy to understand, concise, as brief as possible, includes a study guide and is economical. It is everything the new voice actor needs to get started and includes recommendations to other sources for more complete information and assistance. Please refer to “The Fundamentals” tab for an overview and ordering information.
There will be (surprise!) 5 lectures in this series.
Next up in the series will be an in-depth look at audiobook work. As an Audie finalist and audiobook producer, I have much to share. The
five topics to be covered are: 1) your audiobook demo, 2) preparation,
including breaking down and mapping the manuscript and research, 3) character
analysis & holding the characters voices and story arc through the
entirety, 4) the narrator and author’s voice, and 5) marketing/getting work. Look for it in the fall of 2010.
Thank you for visiting my website – come again soon.
