Bob starts off:

“There are lots of folks who think that voiceover work is all about the voice. Sure, there’s an element of truth in that idea. When we audition, many times the final choice the client makes is based on whose voice most closely matches what they’re looking for; but be careful how far you carry this idea.”  Read More.

All of the money raised goes to help provide financial, counseling, and basic human services to fisherman effected by the Gulf Coast oil spill.

Demetri and his wife, both gulf coast natives, kicked off the fundraiser by donating $3000 of their own money.  If you’d like to learn more or donate check out the “Fill the Spill with Rock” page.

I was reminded of this song this morning and wanted to share.  It’s catchy and fun.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=4WgT9gy4zQA

It’s wonderful out there and sailing solo is a very spiritual experience for me.  The Celtic religion believes in a concept known as “thin places.” According to the Thin Places website:

In simple terms a ‘thin place’ is a place where the veil between this world and the Other world is thin, the Other world is more near.  This meaning assumes the perceiver senses the existence of a world beyond  what we know through our five senses.

The Celts believed that thin places were locations on this earth that allowed them to be closer to their god.  These spiritual places exist not only in churches but all around us.  Some believe that Stonehenge was built on one such “thin” place.

The seas are my “thin” place.  When I’m sailing I have time to meditate, reflect on my life – both where I’ve been and where I want to go.  Being on the water gives me the time to remember what is really important in my life and what isn’t.  Sailing revitalizes my spirit, rejuvenates my soul, and reinvigorates my passion for life.  It puts me more in touch with myself and my beliefs and spirituality.   I’d say that’s a great definition of a “thin” place.

Now how can I record voiceovers outdoors? 

www.youtube.com/watch?v=CO7Qrt9QzbE

My friend and very talented musician Wes Loper collaborated with  me to produce this spot in 2001:

Wharfhouse Restaurant Commercial

As a radio production director most of the time the commercials I made were pretty straightforward.  Voice over music, add a little compression and you were done.  Time to churn out the next one.  But every now and then you get to do something different.  This was one such project.  Wes came to the station after hours one night and we recorded it together in a few takes.  Wes did a great job with it but I wish I had half the production skills then that I do now.  I could have really made this into something special.  Wes, you and I both have come a long way since then, lol.  It’s only been 9 years.  Let’s do another one.

It’s something I really enjoy doing and I am pretty good at it if I may say so myself.  If you would like to discuss producing your next demo please contact me.

Samples of Demos produced by Brian Hart

Russ McLamb Rock Imaging

Russ McLamb Country Imaging

Caryn Clark Radio Imaging

I produce all my own demos so you may listen to them also.  Read more after the jump if you are interested in learning about the demo production process.

Evaluation:

Now this subject is a bit tricky and I’m going to try to write it without being rude or arrogant.  I’ve recently implemented an evaluation process before I produce any demos and I may ask you to send me a copy of your current demos or samples of your work before I agree to produce anything.

Why?  Well, here’s the deal:  I love producing great demos. On the other hand it really drains my enthusiasm and saps my creative energy if I feel you aren’t ready for me to produce a demo for you yet.  I hate the idea of wasting your time and mine by creating a demo that isn’t going to bring you work.  My wife says I should just shut up and take the money but I can’t do that.  Producing a good demo is a very time intensive process and it’s expensive.  I need the satisfaction – and since you’re paying for my expertise you deserve the peace of mind – that comes with knowing it’s the best work it can be from your delivery and my production.

How much does it cost?

Well that depends.  Do you already have pieces you wish me to put together and re-master as a coherent demo or are you asking me to provide sample copy for you to voice?  Do you want me to direct a session or two via phone patch (I like to do this with newer talent)?  Do you want your demo to have a huge production value or should it be more minimalist?  There are a lot of variables that I customize for each individual’s style and type of demo so discussing your needs with me while asking me for a quote is best.

Right now my base rate for a commercial demo is $500.00 if you provide the workparts.  Imaging demos start at $750.00 each.  Expect to pay a bit more if I provide the copy or if you want a sound that is very labor intensive.  I have literally thousands of royalty free music beds and sound effects I include in my rates but if there’s a particular bed you want to purchase from a music source that might cost a little extra.  If you want me to produce more than one demo I have discounted rates available depending on how many and what type of demos you need.

I’ll ask for a deposit up front, with the remaining balance due upon completion of your demos (when you are satisfied with them of course!)

How many demos do I need?

Good question.  For starting talent I generally recommend one commercial demo along with one or two other styles such as narration, audiobook, IVR/telephony etc depending on your interests and where you think you might find work.  If you are interested in radio imaging you should count on at least three different specialized imaging demos.  Imaging and promo work are very tough nuts to crack so I highly recommend you explore the field and realistically analyze your commitment and chances for success fully before committing to making demos.

What files do I get?

When you are satisfied with your demos I will provide you with the produced version in your choice of .wav, .mp3, or .aiff files as well as providing you with a copy of the session files you may use for future revisions.  I also archive all my projects locally so if you wish for me to revise your demo in the future (add a new commercial for example) it’s easy for me to do so at a very reasonable rate.

Do you have more questions or would you like to discuss your demo with Brian Hart?  Contact Brian Hart for further information.