Hello & Help Me! (Thanks in advance)

[mcalldp]

Hi All, I have been writing music, playing instrumenst, singing etc... for many years. However, I am very intersted in doing voice work. I started by doing a free bit for a student that needed a male voice for animation. I have another free project lined up as well but I am wondering what the best way is to get into the level of getting paid?

How do I pay my dues? I have a home recording studio and major music knowledge which has some overlap into voice work. I think my next step is to get a demo together but I am not sure what I should do etc.. can someone offer me advice, guidance etc...?

I am more than willing to do free work if it acts as an advertisement of my skill but my ultimate goal is to get paying work. Besides the demo, any other suggestions or help would really be appreciated. I think you for your time in advance and look forward to any instructions.

Also, I know it's not easy to hear what a speaking voice would sounds like in song but for my only current point of reference please see:
http://mcallister-productions.com/

There is a 'Sound & Lyrics" tab at the top and it's free to listen to the songs. I would describe my natural voice as fairly low (When singing, think of David Bowie or Roger Waters) with a bit of grit in it but I am interested in any suggestions on voice work including learing accents etc...any help at all.

[JoeActor]

Hi Donpaul - welcome to the forum!

Well, the singing and recording experience is good. It means you already have knowledge about your voice range and about mics and equipment.

I'd say getting involved in Acting and/or Improv, or finding some good VO classes would be the next step.

Don't rush into making a demo before you're ready. A good coach can help you know when that should be.

It looks like you're in the FLA area, so I'm sure there's some good theatres in the area. See if you can hook up with a community theatre to do a few shows, or find an Improv group to play with. Acting is a huge part of VO work, so it's best to have a solid base.

As for getting paid, ah! there's the rub! VO is a very competitive business, but there are opportunities all around. Take the time to do a bit of research. If you check out our Reviews section you'll find a number of great books on all areas of VO.

Anywho, hope this helps.

Nice to meet you,
Joe J Thomas
www.JoeActor.com
www.SoundsGoodToYou.com

[Mike Sommer]

Welcome.

+1 Joe

You pay your dues by getting training as an actor, in acting and improv along with many good vo coaches, and along the way you need to find a good mentor that will guide you. Then you practice like the dickens, and practice some more to train your voice over and acting muscle. Then in about 3 or 4 years you might be ready to put together a demo and start working in the trenches. IF you are exceptionally gifted you might be able to get on the fast track of VO.

Just so you understand, the pickings are a little slim these days. But never work for free.

Good luck