By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Priscilla_Groves]Priscilla Groves
A question that often bears heavy on the mind of many new voice overs is, how long does it take to break into the industry. Most new voice overs are eager to get going and hit the studio to start recording their first professional jobs from the day they cut their demo. From years of experience working within the world of marketing and copy writing, I can say genuinely say that there is no definitive answer to this question.
During my time in the industry I've met some fresh new talent who managed to get work within days of getting themselves out there. Others have taken weeks. Some take months and some, years. For new voice overs, it can be really disheartening when they go through a big effort to sent out a tonne of emails in a self marketing campaign, only to have to sit and wait for the phone to ring. We estimate from past experience that, if you are not established in the industry, it could take anything up to a year to land your first job. We say this because it can be quite difficult for advertising agencies to try out a new voice. It's high risk and potentially very expensive, especially if the voice over doesn't work out. So more often than not, they need to get used to seeing or hearing you out there.
Thankfully, most voice overs get a job in far less than one year, but too many voice overs beat themselves up if the phone's not hopping. Just because the phone isn't hopping immediately, doesn't mean that you don't have great talent. And when you're starting out a large part has to do with lady luck, but because some times she can be a bit of a cow you can't count on her alone to help you out. Here's a check-list of things that are directly in your control. Look at other people's online profiles and be critical of how they are presenting themselves in comparison to how you're presenting yourself.
For example, have a listen to their demo's and decide if they're of a much higher standard than yours. Do they have clear and attractive profile picture which can be essential to attract employers attention by presenting the voice over in a personable way? Look at your voice description. Does it stand out? What about your acting biography, does it include irrelevant personal details? This space should be used to describe your voice and your professionalism. Have you made that extra effort to collect testimonials from people who can vouch for you and your potential? This can even be the person who cut your demo, or your acting teacher.
If you have a great demo and a good profile page you should really get something within a year. If not, you need to look at your demo and decide whether or not it's good enough. Also consider your own personal circumstances. For example, if you have a very niche accent or style of voice that could might affect the type of jobs you can contract. Just because you've been waiting for a couple of months without work doesn't mean you're flogging the dead donkey! Please keep your head up, stay positive and do your best to study the industry.
Priscilla G. http://www.piehole.co.uk/
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Time-It-Takes-Voice-Over-Artists-to-Break-In-To-The-Industry&id=6481824] The Time It Takes Voice Over Artists to Break In To The Industry
Friday, December 30, 2011
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Advice on Moving to LA
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Eugene_R_Johnson]Eugene R Johnson
So you're moving to the city of Angels! There are literally thousands of people moving to LA each month. To pursue one dream or another. Honestly, it can be hard to become noticed when there are thousands of people attempting to do the same thing you are. Here are a few tips to separate yourself from the crowd.
Networking events
Networking events won't be a life changing affair but they will get you out of the house and amongst your peers who have similar aspirations and if you're lucky, you may even make a valuable connection. It's best to simply attend with an open mind and the goal to form a mutual bond with other attendees, instead of going with the desire to see what you can get from the other person.
Follow LA Blogs
You'll be amazed at the amount of great bloggers Los Angeles has to offer! They will offer information, tips, and useful advice, and save months of mindless wandering of trying to understand out how to do the right thing. There are people out here that want you to succeed in LA. Search Google for what your passions are and find a blog to your liking. Once you find a blogger that suits your needs you'll be following an online mentor. That will give you great invaluable information.
Realistic Expectations
It's highly likely, you won't make it to super stardom your first year in LA, Agents will not be knocking down your door, and you will not be be in that corner office of your dream job. The first year in LA should be focused on adjusting yourself to the city, finding a place to live, and finding a stable source of income to support your yourself.
Clarity
What originally brought you to LA probably will not be the same thing you actually pursue once you get here. This definitely won't be a problem. I strongly believe that you must figure out what your passions are by trial and error. Many people come to LA wanting to explore multiple career paths including being an actor, producer, writer, or whatever. You must figure out what exactly it is you want to do and go get it with relentless persistence. Soon enough, you will be able to branch off and pursue other endeavors, but you must first focus and create a foundation that will last during your time in Los Angeles.
Eugene Johnson is a writer for [http://www.immovingtola.com]Moving to LA where he provides advice and tips about Los Angeles.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Advice-on-Moving-to-LA&id=6572137] Advice on Moving to LA
So you're moving to the city of Angels! There are literally thousands of people moving to LA each month. To pursue one dream or another. Honestly, it can be hard to become noticed when there are thousands of people attempting to do the same thing you are. Here are a few tips to separate yourself from the crowd.
Networking events
Networking events won't be a life changing affair but they will get you out of the house and amongst your peers who have similar aspirations and if you're lucky, you may even make a valuable connection. It's best to simply attend with an open mind and the goal to form a mutual bond with other attendees, instead of going with the desire to see what you can get from the other person.
Follow LA Blogs
You'll be amazed at the amount of great bloggers Los Angeles has to offer! They will offer information, tips, and useful advice, and save months of mindless wandering of trying to understand out how to do the right thing. There are people out here that want you to succeed in LA. Search Google for what your passions are and find a blog to your liking. Once you find a blogger that suits your needs you'll be following an online mentor. That will give you great invaluable information.
Realistic Expectations
It's highly likely, you won't make it to super stardom your first year in LA, Agents will not be knocking down your door, and you will not be be in that corner office of your dream job. The first year in LA should be focused on adjusting yourself to the city, finding a place to live, and finding a stable source of income to support your yourself.
Clarity
What originally brought you to LA probably will not be the same thing you actually pursue once you get here. This definitely won't be a problem. I strongly believe that you must figure out what your passions are by trial and error. Many people come to LA wanting to explore multiple career paths including being an actor, producer, writer, or whatever. You must figure out what exactly it is you want to do and go get it with relentless persistence. Soon enough, you will be able to branch off and pursue other endeavors, but you must first focus and create a foundation that will last during your time in Los Angeles.
Eugene Johnson is a writer for [http://www.immovingtola.com]Moving to LA where he provides advice and tips about Los Angeles.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Advice-on-Moving-to-LA&id=6572137] Advice on Moving to LA
Monday, December 26, 2011
Magicians Patent Secrets: FREE Magic Patent for Readers Too
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Bill_J_Hall]Bill J Hall
For a magician, protecting your inventions is no easy task. In a small secret fellowship, magic tricks and inventions are created, improved upon, and similar thinking pops up too. In addition to those difficulties, the magician inventor faces some serious questions:
Will they even have the money to sue?
Is the magician really protected even if they patent their invention?
Is it worth patenting a creation only to share that with the patent office and others who may find it?
Most magicians choose not to patent their creative inventions. This would make sense since most of them are small time operators and not making riches off of these inventions. However, there are exceptions.
Some magicians, like Howard Thurston, decided to patent a good amount of his creative inventions. David Copperfield and Doug Henning, however, did not.
Mark Wilson (if you remember him from Magic Circus TV specials in the 1970's or Magic Land of Allakazam from the 1960's) did patent a few. Houdini has patents too, but not for magic - for toys!
Some states and situations make it more valuable and logical to seek a magic patent. For example, magic props that are technical in nature and require unique construction can be patented to avoid others from manufacturing and selling the exact same trick for less money or as a competitor when they didn't originate the idea.
For magic that involves secret knowledge only, the magic patent becomes more difficult to protect and use when it comes time to be tested in court. For these reasons, for the most part, magic tricks are not patented unless they are a magic set or game.
What is interesting to me are the really old patents from the 1800's. They take a lot of research to compile, but it is a fascinating look into the magic thinking back then. Of course, the other neat thing is the way they write and the fact that every person in every illustration has a mustache and some have hats. That still brings a chuckle as I explore these.
Probably my favorite magic patents include Howard Thurston's classic magic illusions and his thoughtful contributions to theater special effects. He even contributed a patent on ship construction meant to avoid what happened to the Titanic. He was moved by the disaster to create a solution to that type of situation on the seas!
Modern magicians patent their magic too. This is especially prevalent for higher priced items or items manufactured by larger companies where they market tricks to a broader audience. Magic patents make fascinating reading for magicians - both the older ones from a historical perspective, as well as the newer ones, from a practical perspective. For me, it's like opening a secret vault!
Magic has kept me fascinated for years and I have been doing magic since I was seven. Discovering magic patents is one more area of exploration that every magician should try. In fact, I offer you a FREE magic patent from the 1800's as a reader of this article! It's from 1890 and is a beheading illusion (magic reflects the times for sure in this case).
To get your free patent and read about my magic patent collection, please visit rel=nofollow [http://www.magicpatentbook.com]www.magicpatentbook.com. Enjoy!
Bill Hall is a magician, published author, and a marketing professional. To get a free magic patent and learn more about Bill's magic patent collection, please visit [http://www.magicpatentbook.com]http://www.magicpatenbook.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Magicians-Patent-Secrets:-FREE-Magic-Patent-for-Readers-Too&id=6565621] Magicians Patent Secrets: FREE Magic Patent for Readers Too
For a magician, protecting your inventions is no easy task. In a small secret fellowship, magic tricks and inventions are created, improved upon, and similar thinking pops up too. In addition to those difficulties, the magician inventor faces some serious questions:
Will they even have the money to sue?
Is the magician really protected even if they patent their invention?
Is it worth patenting a creation only to share that with the patent office and others who may find it?
Most magicians choose not to patent their creative inventions. This would make sense since most of them are small time operators and not making riches off of these inventions. However, there are exceptions.
Some magicians, like Howard Thurston, decided to patent a good amount of his creative inventions. David Copperfield and Doug Henning, however, did not.
Mark Wilson (if you remember him from Magic Circus TV specials in the 1970's or Magic Land of Allakazam from the 1960's) did patent a few. Houdini has patents too, but not for magic - for toys!
Some states and situations make it more valuable and logical to seek a magic patent. For example, magic props that are technical in nature and require unique construction can be patented to avoid others from manufacturing and selling the exact same trick for less money or as a competitor when they didn't originate the idea.
For magic that involves secret knowledge only, the magic patent becomes more difficult to protect and use when it comes time to be tested in court. For these reasons, for the most part, magic tricks are not patented unless they are a magic set or game.
What is interesting to me are the really old patents from the 1800's. They take a lot of research to compile, but it is a fascinating look into the magic thinking back then. Of course, the other neat thing is the way they write and the fact that every person in every illustration has a mustache and some have hats. That still brings a chuckle as I explore these.
Probably my favorite magic patents include Howard Thurston's classic magic illusions and his thoughtful contributions to theater special effects. He even contributed a patent on ship construction meant to avoid what happened to the Titanic. He was moved by the disaster to create a solution to that type of situation on the seas!
Modern magicians patent their magic too. This is especially prevalent for higher priced items or items manufactured by larger companies where they market tricks to a broader audience. Magic patents make fascinating reading for magicians - both the older ones from a historical perspective, as well as the newer ones, from a practical perspective. For me, it's like opening a secret vault!
Magic has kept me fascinated for years and I have been doing magic since I was seven. Discovering magic patents is one more area of exploration that every magician should try. In fact, I offer you a FREE magic patent from the 1800's as a reader of this article! It's from 1890 and is a beheading illusion (magic reflects the times for sure in this case).
To get your free patent and read about my magic patent collection, please visit rel=nofollow [http://www.magicpatentbook.com]www.magicpatentbook.com. Enjoy!
Bill Hall is a magician, published author, and a marketing professional. To get a free magic patent and learn more about Bill's magic patent collection, please visit [http://www.magicpatentbook.com]http://www.magicpatenbook.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Magicians-Patent-Secrets:-FREE-Magic-Patent-for-Readers-Too&id=6565621] Magicians Patent Secrets: FREE Magic Patent for Readers Too
Saturday, December 24, 2011
All About Casting Calls
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Martin_Swan]Martin Swan
A cast, a word recorded since the early 17th century, is a group of individuals chosen to perform live or recorded performances. A typical cast may consist of actors, dancers, singers or models, based on their talents. Casting is one of the most preliminary processes carried out before production of a live or recorded performance can begin. For this purpose, calls are held.
Depending upon the nature of the role, casting calls may either go out to the general public or to professional actors. The selection procedure for most areas is similar, be it for Community Theater, stage, television or even film production.
After calls are made, individuals who turn up for roles need to be selected. Usually, the casting procedure consists of a set of auditions, which are carried out before a casting panel. The casting panel may consist of directors, producers and choreographers. Performers are tested based on both their individual performances and their performances together as a group before the final selection is made. Once the casting is done, all the selected performers comprise the cast list and finally production on the performance can begin.
Up to two decades ago, the prime medium in which calls were made of print media such as advertisements in newspapers, digests and magazines. Individuals seeking jobs in the entertainment industry often found it difficult in getting casting calls based on their skills. However, with the advent of the World Wide Web, most of that has changed and now several online services and web sites provide casting calls and their listings free of cost.
The most useful aspect of these services is that a seeking individual can get knowledge of casting calls based exclusively on his skills and requirements. Most of these services have separate sections for different types of work in varying fields of the entertainment industry.
For example, a person can register for calls that are solely based on modeling; if he or she wants to perform in reality television shows, then they can simply subscribe to casting calls for Reality TV. People who find TV dramas and serials interesting can register for their relevant calls. It is all based on priority and personal preference. People who want to work in the music industry, create or appear in music videos can do so by simply registering for calls in music. Calls for theater and stage productions can also be subscribed to via these online services, along with film and other types of media.
Casting call-types on these services differ largely from acting to modeling, dancing to singing, to making music, choreography, and even stunt work. Such web sites not only promote employment. They also help talented individuals to get jobs in their areas of interest. Subscriptions to casting calls can be easily made and at cheap, affordable costs. It is an easy and effective way to find work
We provide the best info about [http://www.casting-call.us/]casting call and [http://www.casting-call.us/]casting calls. For further details please visit the provided links.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?All-About-Casting-Calls&id=6583881] All About Casting Calls
A cast, a word recorded since the early 17th century, is a group of individuals chosen to perform live or recorded performances. A typical cast may consist of actors, dancers, singers or models, based on their talents. Casting is one of the most preliminary processes carried out before production of a live or recorded performance can begin. For this purpose, calls are held.
Depending upon the nature of the role, casting calls may either go out to the general public or to professional actors. The selection procedure for most areas is similar, be it for Community Theater, stage, television or even film production.
After calls are made, individuals who turn up for roles need to be selected. Usually, the casting procedure consists of a set of auditions, which are carried out before a casting panel. The casting panel may consist of directors, producers and choreographers. Performers are tested based on both their individual performances and their performances together as a group before the final selection is made. Once the casting is done, all the selected performers comprise the cast list and finally production on the performance can begin.
Up to two decades ago, the prime medium in which calls were made of print media such as advertisements in newspapers, digests and magazines. Individuals seeking jobs in the entertainment industry often found it difficult in getting casting calls based on their skills. However, with the advent of the World Wide Web, most of that has changed and now several online services and web sites provide casting calls and their listings free of cost.
The most useful aspect of these services is that a seeking individual can get knowledge of casting calls based exclusively on his skills and requirements. Most of these services have separate sections for different types of work in varying fields of the entertainment industry.
For example, a person can register for calls that are solely based on modeling; if he or she wants to perform in reality television shows, then they can simply subscribe to casting calls for Reality TV. People who find TV dramas and serials interesting can register for their relevant calls. It is all based on priority and personal preference. People who want to work in the music industry, create or appear in music videos can do so by simply registering for calls in music. Calls for theater and stage productions can also be subscribed to via these online services, along with film and other types of media.
Casting call-types on these services differ largely from acting to modeling, dancing to singing, to making music, choreography, and even stunt work. Such web sites not only promote employment. They also help talented individuals to get jobs in their areas of interest. Subscriptions to casting calls can be easily made and at cheap, affordable costs. It is an easy and effective way to find work
We provide the best info about [http://www.casting-call.us/]casting call and [http://www.casting-call.us/]casting calls. For further details please visit the provided links.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?All-About-Casting-Calls&id=6583881] All About Casting Calls
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Why Getting the Right Stage Lighting Equipment Can Mean a Very Big Difference to Your Stage Show
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Anthony_M_Langley]Anthony M Langley
Stage lighting equipment is one of the most crucial elements of any stage show.
Just so much equipment
Lighting equipment for the stage consists of so many different kinds of light and sound equipment which are used for so many diverse kinds of stage performances like those seen in theaters as well as rock music shows.
Acquiring equipment to give the show a very professional look is not at all cheap and it can in fact cost a fortune. Thus, if one is on a tight budget, things can get pretty tough. Also, getting very professional equipment has another big disadvantage - it is tough to use for a person who is untrained.
How do you know what stage lighting equipment to get?
The best way to know that you are getting the right equipment for your stage show is to get the advice of a professional or a staff member of the place from where you are buying the equipment.
Also, instead of going and purchasing the equipment, it makes more sense for you to just rent it. And, even though you are renting the equipment and not buying it, you will get the help of trained staff from the place where you buy the equipment, to help you set it up.
Get all the help you need
These staff will take care of the entire process of setting up the equipment and later on, de-installing it, after you have done with it. You need not worry about any technical issues of the setting up of the equipment as the staff will take care of all of this for you.
But that's not all that these staff can do - they will even deliver all the equipment that you need - bang on time for your show and they can even help you in creating an extraordinary ambience for you and your audience, with the help of the equipment that you buy or rent.
The importance of good stage lighting
When you have lighting equipment for your stage show, which is of high quality, you will thus be able to create a very amazing effect. If you have strobe lights, you can create an even more astounding lighting effect.
The best part is that - if you do not know how to organize things, the place where you are taking the equipment from will help you. Or, in the rare event that they cannot do so, there are many other companies who will take care of organizing your stage lighting equipment for you, totally!
Why not look to protect your home or business with [http://www.homecctvsystems.net]home cctv systems
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Why-Getting-the-Right-Stage-Lighting-Equipment-Can-Mean-a-Very-Big-Difference-to-Your-Stage-Show&id=6596358] Why Getting the Right Stage Lighting Equipment Can Mean a Very Big Difference to Your Stage Show
Stage lighting equipment is one of the most crucial elements of any stage show.
Just so much equipment
Lighting equipment for the stage consists of so many different kinds of light and sound equipment which are used for so many diverse kinds of stage performances like those seen in theaters as well as rock music shows.
Acquiring equipment to give the show a very professional look is not at all cheap and it can in fact cost a fortune. Thus, if one is on a tight budget, things can get pretty tough. Also, getting very professional equipment has another big disadvantage - it is tough to use for a person who is untrained.
How do you know what stage lighting equipment to get?
The best way to know that you are getting the right equipment for your stage show is to get the advice of a professional or a staff member of the place from where you are buying the equipment.
Also, instead of going and purchasing the equipment, it makes more sense for you to just rent it. And, even though you are renting the equipment and not buying it, you will get the help of trained staff from the place where you buy the equipment, to help you set it up.
Get all the help you need
These staff will take care of the entire process of setting up the equipment and later on, de-installing it, after you have done with it. You need not worry about any technical issues of the setting up of the equipment as the staff will take care of all of this for you.
But that's not all that these staff can do - they will even deliver all the equipment that you need - bang on time for your show and they can even help you in creating an extraordinary ambience for you and your audience, with the help of the equipment that you buy or rent.
The importance of good stage lighting
When you have lighting equipment for your stage show, which is of high quality, you will thus be able to create a very amazing effect. If you have strobe lights, you can create an even more astounding lighting effect.
The best part is that - if you do not know how to organize things, the place where you are taking the equipment from will help you. Or, in the rare event that they cannot do so, there are many other companies who will take care of organizing your stage lighting equipment for you, totally!
Why not look to protect your home or business with [http://www.homecctvsystems.net]home cctv systems
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Why-Getting-the-Right-Stage-Lighting-Equipment-Can-Mean-a-Very-Big-Difference-to-Your-Stage-Show&id=6596358] Why Getting the Right Stage Lighting Equipment Can Mean a Very Big Difference to Your Stage Show
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Build Your Confidence Dancing Salsa
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Sheena_J_Larsen]Sheena J Larsen
I want to ask you a serious question.
What do you feel when you are dancing... to music, with a partner?
Are you feeling happy? Inhibited? Ridiculous? Sexy? Confident? Tense?
Personally, I have felt all of the above at one time or another.
That's ok. It's part of the learning and growing process. However, I think you'll agree with me when I say that it feels SO MUCH better to have confidence and feel great dancing than it does to feel closed off and insecure.
That's why I am about to share two things that has helped me build my confidence in the past, and still to this day, in building my confidence while I dance Salsa.
The first, and most obvious, is PRACTICE!
I am not talking about just showing up at the dance studio to take a class. I am talking about focused, ultra-conscious, intentional and goal-driven practice. The kind of practice where you don't leave the mirror until your hips are swaying right. The kind of practice where you don't notice when someone walks into the room because you're so focused on what you are doing. Unfortunately, we cannot hire someone to put in the time for us. We have to do the work.
The second thing that has boosted my confidence is being able to FEEL the music.
Sometimes even great technical dancers lack musicality and poorly interpret the music. There is nothing more satisfying than being completely in the moment while dancing and hitting a break in the music, with a move from out of nowhere that felt so right. It's better than any drug you could ever take (not that I would know). FEELING the music means you are dancing to the rhythms and melodies of the instruments instead of counting the numbers.
Numbers are important when starting out, but if you never move past that stage you won't ever get to experience the true joy of dancing.
What an amazing feeling it is to instinctively KNOW when the music is going to change
and being ready to react to it with your body. Aaaahhhhhhh...
And yes, YOU have that ability. You just need to understand and tune into it. It will take time, effort and potentially a penny or two to gain the right knowledge and education. Once you have found an instructor or dance school that fits you, then it is up to you to practice what you learn and put it to use (in other words, get out and use those moves at the Salsa club).
Sheena Larsen http://stepintosalsa.com/
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Build-Your-Confidence-Dancing-Salsa&id=6593208] Build Your Confidence Dancing Salsa
I want to ask you a serious question.
What do you feel when you are dancing... to music, with a partner?
Are you feeling happy? Inhibited? Ridiculous? Sexy? Confident? Tense?
Personally, I have felt all of the above at one time or another.
That's ok. It's part of the learning and growing process. However, I think you'll agree with me when I say that it feels SO MUCH better to have confidence and feel great dancing than it does to feel closed off and insecure.
That's why I am about to share two things that has helped me build my confidence in the past, and still to this day, in building my confidence while I dance Salsa.
The first, and most obvious, is PRACTICE!
I am not talking about just showing up at the dance studio to take a class. I am talking about focused, ultra-conscious, intentional and goal-driven practice. The kind of practice where you don't leave the mirror until your hips are swaying right. The kind of practice where you don't notice when someone walks into the room because you're so focused on what you are doing. Unfortunately, we cannot hire someone to put in the time for us. We have to do the work.
The second thing that has boosted my confidence is being able to FEEL the music.
Sometimes even great technical dancers lack musicality and poorly interpret the music. There is nothing more satisfying than being completely in the moment while dancing and hitting a break in the music, with a move from out of nowhere that felt so right. It's better than any drug you could ever take (not that I would know). FEELING the music means you are dancing to the rhythms and melodies of the instruments instead of counting the numbers.
Numbers are important when starting out, but if you never move past that stage you won't ever get to experience the true joy of dancing.
What an amazing feeling it is to instinctively KNOW when the music is going to change
and being ready to react to it with your body. Aaaahhhhhhh...
And yes, YOU have that ability. You just need to understand and tune into it. It will take time, effort and potentially a penny or two to gain the right knowledge and education. Once you have found an instructor or dance school that fits you, then it is up to you to practice what you learn and put it to use (in other words, get out and use those moves at the Salsa club).
Sheena Larsen http://stepintosalsa.com/
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Build-Your-Confidence-Dancing-Salsa&id=6593208] Build Your Confidence Dancing Salsa
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Violinist Caroline Goulding: Success at Seventeen
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Emily_Cary]Emily Cary
Grammy Award nominee Caroline Goulding is seventeen. Unlike the hapless girl in Janice Ian's ballad, the gifted violinist has it all.
Growing up in a family of music lovers, she began violin lessons at an early age and soon surpassed all expectations. Her teacher's recommendation that she pursue advanced studies with Paul Kantor at Cleveland Institute of Music meant that the family had to relocate from their home in Michigan. Fortunately, both parents were teachers and able to find positions in Cleveland schools, so the family was not separated.
While developing into an astonishing talent, Goulding spent summers attending Michigan's Interlochen Center for the Arts, studying Celtic music on Capt Breton Island, Nova Scotia and performing at the Aspen Music Festival. By fifteen, she had won two violin concerto competitions and played as guest artist with the Cleveland Orchestra, the Cleveland Pops Orchestra, the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and other notable organizations. Because of her outgoing, social personality, she was always one of the students, not Caroline with the violin.
Hailed as a "brilliant talent...destined for greatness" by the chairman of the Stradivari Society, Goulding has made guest appearances on television's "The Today Show" and "Martha" and performed on NPR's "From the Top" and PBS's "From the Top at Carnegie Hall" with banjo artist Bela Fleck. Her instrument is the 1617 Lobkowicz A&H.
One of her favorite pieces is Tchaikovsky's Violin Concerto. Because it is such a massive, athletic piece, she cautions that one must build endurance enough to play it. Tchaikovsky dedicated it to violinist Leopold Auer, who said it was unplayable, but it quickly became a great favorite of violinists. The virtuosity it requires is immediately evident in the first movement, which lasts 18 out of the entire 45 minutes. Goulding laughs as she confesses that she especially loves the third movement because, "...when you get there, you're almost done and are about to play the exciting grand finale."
She acknowledges that none of her success could have come about had she not gone to Cleveland for advanced studies. The move was far more of a sacrifice for her family than for her and she is grateful every day that they did that for her.
As recipient of First Prize in the Young Concert Artists International Auditions and the Avery Fisher Career Grant, she has avoided the financial problems most young musicians face. Her self-titled debut album received a 2009 Grammy nomination. Her next recording will be released in June 2012.
Emily Cary is a prize-winning teacher and novelist whose articles about entertainers appear regularly in the DC Examiner. She is a genealogist, an avid traveler, and a researcher who incorporates landscapes, cultures and the power of music in her books and articles.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Violinist-Caroline-Goulding:-Success-at-Seventeen&id=6599998] Violinist Caroline Goulding: Success at Seventeen
Grammy Award nominee Caroline Goulding is seventeen. Unlike the hapless girl in Janice Ian's ballad, the gifted violinist has it all.
Growing up in a family of music lovers, she began violin lessons at an early age and soon surpassed all expectations. Her teacher's recommendation that she pursue advanced studies with Paul Kantor at Cleveland Institute of Music meant that the family had to relocate from their home in Michigan. Fortunately, both parents were teachers and able to find positions in Cleveland schools, so the family was not separated.
While developing into an astonishing talent, Goulding spent summers attending Michigan's Interlochen Center for the Arts, studying Celtic music on Capt Breton Island, Nova Scotia and performing at the Aspen Music Festival. By fifteen, she had won two violin concerto competitions and played as guest artist with the Cleveland Orchestra, the Cleveland Pops Orchestra, the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and other notable organizations. Because of her outgoing, social personality, she was always one of the students, not Caroline with the violin.
Hailed as a "brilliant talent...destined for greatness" by the chairman of the Stradivari Society, Goulding has made guest appearances on television's "The Today Show" and "Martha" and performed on NPR's "From the Top" and PBS's "From the Top at Carnegie Hall" with banjo artist Bela Fleck. Her instrument is the 1617 Lobkowicz A&H.
One of her favorite pieces is Tchaikovsky's Violin Concerto. Because it is such a massive, athletic piece, she cautions that one must build endurance enough to play it. Tchaikovsky dedicated it to violinist Leopold Auer, who said it was unplayable, but it quickly became a great favorite of violinists. The virtuosity it requires is immediately evident in the first movement, which lasts 18 out of the entire 45 minutes. Goulding laughs as she confesses that she especially loves the third movement because, "...when you get there, you're almost done and are about to play the exciting grand finale."
She acknowledges that none of her success could have come about had she not gone to Cleveland for advanced studies. The move was far more of a sacrifice for her family than for her and she is grateful every day that they did that for her.
As recipient of First Prize in the Young Concert Artists International Auditions and the Avery Fisher Career Grant, she has avoided the financial problems most young musicians face. Her self-titled debut album received a 2009 Grammy nomination. Her next recording will be released in June 2012.
Emily Cary is a prize-winning teacher and novelist whose articles about entertainers appear regularly in the DC Examiner. She is a genealogist, an avid traveler, and a researcher who incorporates landscapes, cultures and the power of music in her books and articles.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Violinist-Caroline-Goulding:-Success-at-Seventeen&id=6599998] Violinist Caroline Goulding: Success at Seventeen
Friday, December 16, 2011
Barry Manilow: He Writes The Songs That Touch Hearts
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Emily_Cary]Emily Cary
Barry Manilow soared to the top of his craft early in his career with catchy melodies, winning showmanship and a voice that reminds us of the friendly fellow next door. At the top of his game 40 years later, he draws throngs wherever he performs. His tours this season focus on "15 Minutes," his first original album in ten years.
The title alludes to the 15 minutes of fame Andy Warhol predicted everyone would enjoy in life. The concept, Manilow explains, was thoughtfully created over a two year period. His music and lyrics by Enoch Anderson envision a life haunted by the dream of fame. Their songs trace its pursuit by talented people besotted by fame's trappings but unable to cope with them.
The title song is driven by a guitar headed for glory. "Work the Room" and "Bring on Tomorrow" exude hope. "Now It's For Real" and "He's a Star" represent the pinnacle.
But when triumph is followed by a downward spiral, the despair is captured in "Who Needs You?" and "Winner Go Down." Once the moment of self-acceptance is reached in "Train Wreck," the victim realizes that fame can be recaptured by hard work. In many cases, it is. "Everything's Gonna Be All Right" is the exhilarating finale in which Manilow's syncopated vocal line vies with an inverse choral counterpoint. Sheer musical genius!
Manilow and Anderson have worked together for many years. When they began this project, they started with an idea, a story and a situation the character was in. They were writing about a fictitious character who goes through all the stages of fame, gets it, then blows it and begins again.
He confesses that the hardest song to write is a love song because there are only so many ways to say 'I love you.' While writing "15 Minutes," he and Anderson focused on the story they were telling. Until he finished composing the music, Manilow had not realized that he had actually gone through all those phases."
"15 Minutes" is a dramatic story that could lend itself to a multi-media presentation, yet each song stands alone. At first hearing, one senses that at least half are destined for the top of the charts. Listeners of Clear Channel's "Radio Manilow" launched this past June on iHeartRadio.com have already heard the album and entered the contest asking "What would you do to become famous?" Sadly, many cannot envision the down side of fame and the fright Manilow once experienced and relives in "Letter From A Fan." He cannot forget the terror that overcame him when a group of people came to his home and refused to leave until he called for security. That trauma is relived in the song.
Manilow's enormous success as the Top Adult Contemporary Chart artist of all time has allowed him to inspire others. One honor was the invitation to perform at the 2010 Nobel Peace Prize ceremony in Oslo. The winner, Chinese dissident Liu Xiaobo was imprisoned in China, unable to be present. Manilow chose to perform "One Voice," a song he wrote more than 30 years ago that resonates today. It recognizes the power of one person singing in the darkness, like Mr. Liu, to draw a groundswell of followers.
A major voice for arts and music in the schools, Manilow follows that philosophy in his own life. His Manilow Music Project raises funds and instrument donations for needy schools and students. At each concert, he encourages audience members to scour their attics for instruments children can play.
As one of the biggest draws in Las Vegas for many years, Manilow always enters the stage with the pleasant thought that he is coming out to greet his great friends and have a wonderful party.
Emily Cary is a prize-winning teacher and novelist whose articles about entertainers appear regularly in the DC Examiner. She is a genealogist, an avid traveler, and a researcher who incorporates landscapes, cultures and the power of music in her books and articles.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Barry-Manilow:-He-Writes-The-Songs-That-Touch-Hearts&id=6600013] Barry Manilow: He Writes The Songs That Touch Hearts
Barry Manilow soared to the top of his craft early in his career with catchy melodies, winning showmanship and a voice that reminds us of the friendly fellow next door. At the top of his game 40 years later, he draws throngs wherever he performs. His tours this season focus on "15 Minutes," his first original album in ten years.
The title alludes to the 15 minutes of fame Andy Warhol predicted everyone would enjoy in life. The concept, Manilow explains, was thoughtfully created over a two year period. His music and lyrics by Enoch Anderson envision a life haunted by the dream of fame. Their songs trace its pursuit by talented people besotted by fame's trappings but unable to cope with them.
The title song is driven by a guitar headed for glory. "Work the Room" and "Bring on Tomorrow" exude hope. "Now It's For Real" and "He's a Star" represent the pinnacle.
But when triumph is followed by a downward spiral, the despair is captured in "Who Needs You?" and "Winner Go Down." Once the moment of self-acceptance is reached in "Train Wreck," the victim realizes that fame can be recaptured by hard work. In many cases, it is. "Everything's Gonna Be All Right" is the exhilarating finale in which Manilow's syncopated vocal line vies with an inverse choral counterpoint. Sheer musical genius!
Manilow and Anderson have worked together for many years. When they began this project, they started with an idea, a story and a situation the character was in. They were writing about a fictitious character who goes through all the stages of fame, gets it, then blows it and begins again.
He confesses that the hardest song to write is a love song because there are only so many ways to say 'I love you.' While writing "15 Minutes," he and Anderson focused on the story they were telling. Until he finished composing the music, Manilow had not realized that he had actually gone through all those phases."
"15 Minutes" is a dramatic story that could lend itself to a multi-media presentation, yet each song stands alone. At first hearing, one senses that at least half are destined for the top of the charts. Listeners of Clear Channel's "Radio Manilow" launched this past June on iHeartRadio.com have already heard the album and entered the contest asking "What would you do to become famous?" Sadly, many cannot envision the down side of fame and the fright Manilow once experienced and relives in "Letter From A Fan." He cannot forget the terror that overcame him when a group of people came to his home and refused to leave until he called for security. That trauma is relived in the song.
Manilow's enormous success as the Top Adult Contemporary Chart artist of all time has allowed him to inspire others. One honor was the invitation to perform at the 2010 Nobel Peace Prize ceremony in Oslo. The winner, Chinese dissident Liu Xiaobo was imprisoned in China, unable to be present. Manilow chose to perform "One Voice," a song he wrote more than 30 years ago that resonates today. It recognizes the power of one person singing in the darkness, like Mr. Liu, to draw a groundswell of followers.
A major voice for arts and music in the schools, Manilow follows that philosophy in his own life. His Manilow Music Project raises funds and instrument donations for needy schools and students. At each concert, he encourages audience members to scour their attics for instruments children can play.
As one of the biggest draws in Las Vegas for many years, Manilow always enters the stage with the pleasant thought that he is coming out to greet his great friends and have a wonderful party.
Emily Cary is a prize-winning teacher and novelist whose articles about entertainers appear regularly in the DC Examiner. She is a genealogist, an avid traveler, and a researcher who incorporates landscapes, cultures and the power of music in her books and articles.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Barry-Manilow:-He-Writes-The-Songs-That-Touch-Hearts&id=6600013] Barry Manilow: He Writes The Songs That Touch Hearts
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Cathy Rigby Soars Again
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Emily_Cary]Emily Cary
Cathy Rigby has been the definitive Peter Pan ever since the diminutive Olympic champion gymnast turned her sights on musical theater in 1974. As the obstinate young boy who won't grow up, she has flown across the stage hundreds of times, earning Tony Award Nominations as Best Leading Actress in a Musical and Best Revival of a Musical.
Now she returns in a festive new production that belies her decision five years ago to shout her last hurrah in Never Never Land. The show makes its way to major cities throughout the country during the 2011-2012 season, pausing to enhance the shimmer and sparkle of Broadway's holiday season.
Rigby regards the role as an old friend. After coming off a production of 'Steel Magnolias,' she missed it so much she decided to do it again and confesses that she has never felt this happy and excited. Each production has brought in new audiences who keep coming back in multiple generations. This show is especially exciting because of the new sets and costumes and wonderful scenic design. Additionally, Rigby is using a double harness which is new and allows for more slipping around.
The big drumming number features talented actress Desiree Davar as Tiger Lily. The musical director, Keith Levenson, has rearranged the music to coordinate with the artistic aerial ballet in which she dances on silk, just like Cirque du Soleil.
Rigby is a ball of energy that transfers to all who work with her. Over the years, she has played many of theater's favorite musical heroines in such hits as 'The Wizard of Oz,' 'Annie Get Your Gun,' 'South Pacific' and 'The Unsinkable Molly Brown,' collected television credits and headlined in Las Vegas. Along the way, she and her husband established the McCoy Rigby Series at La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts in California where their theatrical productions are a community highlight. It serves as a center where they train children in voice, acting, dance and other theatrical skills.
'I'm up for anything,' says the mother of four and grandmother of two, who will celebrate her 60th birthday on the road.
Her great pleasure is seeing the joy children get from performing. Not long ago, her company put on a production of 'Annie' with underprivileged children, one of the many opportunities she offers that change lives, help children forget themselves and gain confidence through the arts. The company also presents discovery arts at hospitals.
Rigby is equally adept at changing the lives of women with her motivational talks about maintaining good health and flexibility for a lifetime. Women, she believes, often doubt themselves. Many would not have thought it possible to set goals and challenge themselves to work harder until they succeed and realize that they are not over the hill.
She emphasizes that women must not put limits on what they are capable of doing and adores hearing how proud her grandchildren are when they tell others, 'My grandmother is Peter Pan.'"
Emily Cary is a prize-winning teacher and novelist whose articles about entertainers appear regularly in the DC Examiner. She is a genealogist, an avid traveler, and a researcher who incorporates landscapes, cultures and the power of music in her books and articles.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Cathy-Rigby-Soars-Again&id=6600033] Cathy Rigby Soars Again
Cathy Rigby has been the definitive Peter Pan ever since the diminutive Olympic champion gymnast turned her sights on musical theater in 1974. As the obstinate young boy who won't grow up, she has flown across the stage hundreds of times, earning Tony Award Nominations as Best Leading Actress in a Musical and Best Revival of a Musical.
Now she returns in a festive new production that belies her decision five years ago to shout her last hurrah in Never Never Land. The show makes its way to major cities throughout the country during the 2011-2012 season, pausing to enhance the shimmer and sparkle of Broadway's holiday season.
Rigby regards the role as an old friend. After coming off a production of 'Steel Magnolias,' she missed it so much she decided to do it again and confesses that she has never felt this happy and excited. Each production has brought in new audiences who keep coming back in multiple generations. This show is especially exciting because of the new sets and costumes and wonderful scenic design. Additionally, Rigby is using a double harness which is new and allows for more slipping around.
The big drumming number features talented actress Desiree Davar as Tiger Lily. The musical director, Keith Levenson, has rearranged the music to coordinate with the artistic aerial ballet in which she dances on silk, just like Cirque du Soleil.
Rigby is a ball of energy that transfers to all who work with her. Over the years, she has played many of theater's favorite musical heroines in such hits as 'The Wizard of Oz,' 'Annie Get Your Gun,' 'South Pacific' and 'The Unsinkable Molly Brown,' collected television credits and headlined in Las Vegas. Along the way, she and her husband established the McCoy Rigby Series at La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts in California where their theatrical productions are a community highlight. It serves as a center where they train children in voice, acting, dance and other theatrical skills.
'I'm up for anything,' says the mother of four and grandmother of two, who will celebrate her 60th birthday on the road.
Her great pleasure is seeing the joy children get from performing. Not long ago, her company put on a production of 'Annie' with underprivileged children, one of the many opportunities she offers that change lives, help children forget themselves and gain confidence through the arts. The company also presents discovery arts at hospitals.
Rigby is equally adept at changing the lives of women with her motivational talks about maintaining good health and flexibility for a lifetime. Women, she believes, often doubt themselves. Many would not have thought it possible to set goals and challenge themselves to work harder until they succeed and realize that they are not over the hill.
She emphasizes that women must not put limits on what they are capable of doing and adores hearing how proud her grandchildren are when they tell others, 'My grandmother is Peter Pan.'"
Emily Cary is a prize-winning teacher and novelist whose articles about entertainers appear regularly in the DC Examiner. She is a genealogist, an avid traveler, and a researcher who incorporates landscapes, cultures and the power of music in her books and articles.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Cathy-Rigby-Soars-Again&id=6600033] Cathy Rigby Soars Again
Monday, December 12, 2011
Ozomatli Crosses Cultures With Vibrant Musical Mix
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Emily_Cary]Emily Cary
Ozomatli is America's secret weapon to promote peace and human understanding. As official Cultural Ambassadors for the U.S. State Department, the recipients of the 2010 Los Angeles Local Heroes Award, three Grammy Awards and countless other honors, the unlikely band of urban musicians travels the world. Their music is a kaleidoscope of Latino, hip-hop, salsa, samba, funk, merengue, Jamaican reggae, Indian raga and the native styles of the newest L.A. immigrants
Ozomatli's spokesman, Ulises Bella, is a veritable one-man band. He plays saxophone, clarinet, keyboard, melodica and the requinto jarocho, which he describes as a traditional small guitar from Veracruz, Mexico. Its style and shape were influenced by the Africans who emigrated to Mexico.
Bella has been in the band since its beginning 16 years ago. Growing up in a musical family, he was guided by his father, a violinist with perfect pitch who did not permit "messing around." Bella took advantages of the many musical opportunities for kids in L.A. at that time. There was wonderful music instruction in the public schools and the Saturday Conservatory was open to all children who wanted to attend. They may have missed out on the TV cartoons, but they learned music and were encouraged by their professors that they could do whatever they wanted to do.
Bella did just that, becoming a member of the Youth Symphony West, an all-star orchestra, and the Los Angeles Youth Symphony. He and several others had just formed a band when forty labor strikes paralyzed the city. Their first official performance to support the picketers led to other gigs throughout the area.
By the time their self-titled debut album was released in 1998, they were performing everywhere, from inner-city schools to protest rallies, fundraisers and activist events. Ozomatli quickly became the official band of their hometown. Their name, the Nahuatl word for the Aztec astrological symbol of the monkey, incorporates his qualities as god of dance, fire, the new harvest and music into their purpose.
With community service in their own city a major goals, Ozomatli established oZoKidZ to share their love of music with the next generation and their parents. At the same time, they were impacting audiences on six continents. The unified multi-racial ensemble committed to shattering stereotypes was exactly what the U.S. State Department needed to break boundaries.
Since 2007, they have toured the world as our nation's representatives, performing free public concerts, presenting master classes and jamming with youngsters and local musicians in such unexpected locations as Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam and a Palestinian refugee camp.
Bella recalls how surprised the people in Jordan were by their appearance because it did not conform with their perception of America. He is especially touched by the children they meet wherever they go. One of his biggest surprises came during a trip to Burma. As they were walking up to a school where they would perform, they heard music by an amazing band coming from the building ahead. It was so good, they thought members of a professional local band they expected to meet had arrived ahead of us. Upon entering, they discovered that the band members were blind students. When the students asked them to join in on their next number, Stevie Wonder's 'I Just Called to Say I Love You,' the members of Ozomatli almost lost it.
Emily Cary is a prize-winning teacher and novelist whose articles about entertainers appear regularly in the DC Examiner. She is a genealogist, an avid traveler, and a researcher who incorporates landscapes, cultures and the power of music in her books and articles.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Ozomatli-Crosses-Cultures-With-Vibrant-Musical-Mix&id=6600052] Ozomatli Crosses Cultures With Vibrant Musical Mix
Ozomatli is America's secret weapon to promote peace and human understanding. As official Cultural Ambassadors for the U.S. State Department, the recipients of the 2010 Los Angeles Local Heroes Award, three Grammy Awards and countless other honors, the unlikely band of urban musicians travels the world. Their music is a kaleidoscope of Latino, hip-hop, salsa, samba, funk, merengue, Jamaican reggae, Indian raga and the native styles of the newest L.A. immigrants
Ozomatli's spokesman, Ulises Bella, is a veritable one-man band. He plays saxophone, clarinet, keyboard, melodica and the requinto jarocho, which he describes as a traditional small guitar from Veracruz, Mexico. Its style and shape were influenced by the Africans who emigrated to Mexico.
Bella has been in the band since its beginning 16 years ago. Growing up in a musical family, he was guided by his father, a violinist with perfect pitch who did not permit "messing around." Bella took advantages of the many musical opportunities for kids in L.A. at that time. There was wonderful music instruction in the public schools and the Saturday Conservatory was open to all children who wanted to attend. They may have missed out on the TV cartoons, but they learned music and were encouraged by their professors that they could do whatever they wanted to do.
Bella did just that, becoming a member of the Youth Symphony West, an all-star orchestra, and the Los Angeles Youth Symphony. He and several others had just formed a band when forty labor strikes paralyzed the city. Their first official performance to support the picketers led to other gigs throughout the area.
By the time their self-titled debut album was released in 1998, they were performing everywhere, from inner-city schools to protest rallies, fundraisers and activist events. Ozomatli quickly became the official band of their hometown. Their name, the Nahuatl word for the Aztec astrological symbol of the monkey, incorporates his qualities as god of dance, fire, the new harvest and music into their purpose.
With community service in their own city a major goals, Ozomatli established oZoKidZ to share their love of music with the next generation and their parents. At the same time, they were impacting audiences on six continents. The unified multi-racial ensemble committed to shattering stereotypes was exactly what the U.S. State Department needed to break boundaries.
Since 2007, they have toured the world as our nation's representatives, performing free public concerts, presenting master classes and jamming with youngsters and local musicians in such unexpected locations as Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam and a Palestinian refugee camp.
Bella recalls how surprised the people in Jordan were by their appearance because it did not conform with their perception of America. He is especially touched by the children they meet wherever they go. One of his biggest surprises came during a trip to Burma. As they were walking up to a school where they would perform, they heard music by an amazing band coming from the building ahead. It was so good, they thought members of a professional local band they expected to meet had arrived ahead of us. Upon entering, they discovered that the band members were blind students. When the students asked them to join in on their next number, Stevie Wonder's 'I Just Called to Say I Love You,' the members of Ozomatli almost lost it.
Emily Cary is a prize-winning teacher and novelist whose articles about entertainers appear regularly in the DC Examiner. She is a genealogist, an avid traveler, and a researcher who incorporates landscapes, cultures and the power of music in her books and articles.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Ozomatli-Crosses-Cultures-With-Vibrant-Musical-Mix&id=6600052] Ozomatli Crosses Cultures With Vibrant Musical Mix
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Life's A Stage: The Tips And Tricks Of Grease Makeup
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=G_Blake_Cabot]G Blake Cabot
Whether you are thinking about using grease makeup for a theatrical event, a special Halloween party or some other occasion, you need to know what products are out there and how to apply them.
While grease makeup takes more time and preparation than regular water-soluble face paint, it also lasts much longer. Most importantly, grease makeup won't smear or run under hot lights or conditions where you might perspire. With grease makeup you can create a more dramatic and even professional look.
In addition to your grease face-paints and pencils you will need:
face-cleanser or cream cleanser and/or baby shampoo
clean towels or paper towel
clothing cover-up and hair-ties or shower cap
possible shaver for men
mirror if you aren't working from home
good quality painting brush, powder brush
professional setting powder, talcum or baby powder and applicator (see below)
Q-Tips or fine painting brush, tissue paper, paper towel are all handy
Other items that you might also consider:
light moisturizer
baby oil (to fix mistakes after painting has 'set')
charcoal pencil for eyes
mascara
sponge
mister or water-spray
glitter and other decoration
Before you start applying the makeup, you need to prepare your face so it goes on smoothly. Thoroughly clean your face, tying back hair where necessary, and for men, have a shave. (Bearded men can apply grease paint makeup but it can be tricky keeping it out of the hair.) Remember that grease makeup will stain clothes, so put on an old button-up shirt. After your skin dries, apply a very light moisturizer.
Working with the lightest color first - usually white - and a good quality brush or sponge, or your fingers, you can outline the area and then fill it in. Alternatively you can paint following the contours of your face. The grease makeup may not go on smoothly if it is too cold, which you can remedy by putting a little dab of the color of in the palm of your hand for a minute. After painting, use your fingers to 'pat' the makeup into your skin.
Unlike water-based makeup, grease makeup requires you to paint your face and then 'set' it with a professional setting powder, or baby or talcum powder. (If you go with talcum, be sure to confirm beforehand that you don't have an allergic reaction to it.) You can 'set' the grease makeup either in stages following each color's application, or at the end of all the painting. Some people prefer the latter, applying all the colors before setting with powder, because they can fix mistakes more easily. The downside however is that you risk mixing colors accidentally and smearing your work.
Whether you 'set' in stages or at the end, one reliable way to apply the powder is to partly fill a small, clean, cotton tube sock with the powder, tie it up, and then gently dab your face. Allow the powder sit for a half a minute or so before dusting the excess off with a powder brush. The painted areas should no longer feel moist or sticky - if this is not the case, you probably need more powder. Once the grease makeup has set, it should be fairly smudge-proof. If something needs correcting at this point, you can use Q-Tips soaked in baby oil, but remember that neighboring areas could now be smudged.
Be careful not to apply the grease face makeup thickly or in layers. If you do have too much in one spot, press down on it with your fingers to smooth it out. Continue to refine your face, using Q-Tips or a fine brush for the smaller areas. Grease pencils also can be used for the face, charcoal pencils for the eyes, and don't forget color for your lips too!
Allow the grease makeup to thoroughly dry, and apply a last light coating of powder, dusting off any excess with a brush or tissue paper. A damp cloth at the end can help remove the excess powder, or spray with a very light mist of water. In warmer climates you can probably skip this step because the extra powder will absorb any perspiration.
If you are applying glitter, it should be done at the very end. Generally glitter is most effective when applied over the eyes or on the cheeks, A glitter gel is often used instead of dry glitter to minimize the chances of it flaking into the eye. With dry glitter, first slightly dampen your face and cheeks, then 'poof' on the polyester glitter. Remember to let the makeup settle for about half an hour before you go out. If you have stray paint on your eyelashes, cover it with mascara.
Products available
For just about any type of face design you will need at a minimum white greasepaint foundation and a black greasepaint pencil, but of course there are many colors in between and you will probably want to try at least a few of them. The leading producers of grease makeup are Mehron and Ben Nye. Mehron grease makeup is focused on the theatrical professionals who want ease of application with good coverage. Ben Nye also appeals to the same community, although Ben Nye grease makeup is actually a cream. Grease face makeup comes in a range of forms, from palettes (generally sold as a kit), to individual liners. Pencils, crayons and sticks are useful for smaller areas of the face. Both Mehron and Ben Nye also make eye-shadows, blushes, a range of glitter and setting powders and sealing mists. You may also want to consider sweat-blocker sprays for the face to help preserve the greasepaint under strong lights or in a hot environment.
Blake Cabot
Owner of http://www.ClownAntics.com/ and a clown lover.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Lifes-A-Stage:-The-Tips-And-Tricks-Of-Grease-Makeup&id=6594186] Life's A Stage: The Tips And Tricks Of Grease Makeup
Whether you are thinking about using grease makeup for a theatrical event, a special Halloween party or some other occasion, you need to know what products are out there and how to apply them.
While grease makeup takes more time and preparation than regular water-soluble face paint, it also lasts much longer. Most importantly, grease makeup won't smear or run under hot lights or conditions where you might perspire. With grease makeup you can create a more dramatic and even professional look.
In addition to your grease face-paints and pencils you will need:
face-cleanser or cream cleanser and/or baby shampoo
clean towels or paper towel
clothing cover-up and hair-ties or shower cap
possible shaver for men
mirror if you aren't working from home
good quality painting brush, powder brush
professional setting powder, talcum or baby powder and applicator (see below)
Q-Tips or fine painting brush, tissue paper, paper towel are all handy
Other items that you might also consider:
light moisturizer
baby oil (to fix mistakes after painting has 'set')
charcoal pencil for eyes
mascara
sponge
mister or water-spray
glitter and other decoration
Before you start applying the makeup, you need to prepare your face so it goes on smoothly. Thoroughly clean your face, tying back hair where necessary, and for men, have a shave. (Bearded men can apply grease paint makeup but it can be tricky keeping it out of the hair.) Remember that grease makeup will stain clothes, so put on an old button-up shirt. After your skin dries, apply a very light moisturizer.
Working with the lightest color first - usually white - and a good quality brush or sponge, or your fingers, you can outline the area and then fill it in. Alternatively you can paint following the contours of your face. The grease makeup may not go on smoothly if it is too cold, which you can remedy by putting a little dab of the color of in the palm of your hand for a minute. After painting, use your fingers to 'pat' the makeup into your skin.
Unlike water-based makeup, grease makeup requires you to paint your face and then 'set' it with a professional setting powder, or baby or talcum powder. (If you go with talcum, be sure to confirm beforehand that you don't have an allergic reaction to it.) You can 'set' the grease makeup either in stages following each color's application, or at the end of all the painting. Some people prefer the latter, applying all the colors before setting with powder, because they can fix mistakes more easily. The downside however is that you risk mixing colors accidentally and smearing your work.
Whether you 'set' in stages or at the end, one reliable way to apply the powder is to partly fill a small, clean, cotton tube sock with the powder, tie it up, and then gently dab your face. Allow the powder sit for a half a minute or so before dusting the excess off with a powder brush. The painted areas should no longer feel moist or sticky - if this is not the case, you probably need more powder. Once the grease makeup has set, it should be fairly smudge-proof. If something needs correcting at this point, you can use Q-Tips soaked in baby oil, but remember that neighboring areas could now be smudged.
Be careful not to apply the grease face makeup thickly or in layers. If you do have too much in one spot, press down on it with your fingers to smooth it out. Continue to refine your face, using Q-Tips or a fine brush for the smaller areas. Grease pencils also can be used for the face, charcoal pencils for the eyes, and don't forget color for your lips too!
Allow the grease makeup to thoroughly dry, and apply a last light coating of powder, dusting off any excess with a brush or tissue paper. A damp cloth at the end can help remove the excess powder, or spray with a very light mist of water. In warmer climates you can probably skip this step because the extra powder will absorb any perspiration.
If you are applying glitter, it should be done at the very end. Generally glitter is most effective when applied over the eyes or on the cheeks, A glitter gel is often used instead of dry glitter to minimize the chances of it flaking into the eye. With dry glitter, first slightly dampen your face and cheeks, then 'poof' on the polyester glitter. Remember to let the makeup settle for about half an hour before you go out. If you have stray paint on your eyelashes, cover it with mascara.
Products available
For just about any type of face design you will need at a minimum white greasepaint foundation and a black greasepaint pencil, but of course there are many colors in between and you will probably want to try at least a few of them. The leading producers of grease makeup are Mehron and Ben Nye. Mehron grease makeup is focused on the theatrical professionals who want ease of application with good coverage. Ben Nye also appeals to the same community, although Ben Nye grease makeup is actually a cream. Grease face makeup comes in a range of forms, from palettes (generally sold as a kit), to individual liners. Pencils, crayons and sticks are useful for smaller areas of the face. Both Mehron and Ben Nye also make eye-shadows, blushes, a range of glitter and setting powders and sealing mists. You may also want to consider sweat-blocker sprays for the face to help preserve the greasepaint under strong lights or in a hot environment.
Blake Cabot
Owner of http://www.ClownAntics.com/ and a clown lover.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Lifes-A-Stage:-The-Tips-And-Tricks-Of-Grease-Makeup&id=6594186] Life's A Stage: The Tips And Tricks Of Grease Makeup
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Percussivo Mundo Novo Merges the Past With the Future
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Emily_Cary]Emily Cary
Percussivo Mundo Novo is not your typical electronic band. Leader Mikael Muti and his colleagues hail from Salvador in Bahia, one of Brazil's largest provinces where percussion instruments and traditions hark back more than 500 years to Africa. Muti has combined the old and new cultures in his ensemble of re-designed computer-operated drums.
After working with electronic music since '96 to get the flavor of Brazilian percussion on the keyboard, he was not content with the standard method. Doggedly, he played around until he discovered how to do it with video game controls using a touch-screen and Guitar Hero controller.
On his guitar, he has an iPod, a video controller and a telephone. Each button on the phone makes a different sound. The idea was never to replace the real instruments but to find interesting ways of using new technologies to enhance them.
Because Bahia originally was a major destination in the slave trade, it is today the largest African state outside the continent. The African-Brazilian religious culture colors all aspects of society there, none more than the traditional street party, where Muti and his ensemble first exhibited the concept that had sprung to life in his studio.
While they were playing, he kept hearing a voice inside his head telling him they must give something back in their performance. He did not realize they were performing a religious ritual at the street party until a spiritual master approached him and confirmed that they had done something important for the gods.
The samba rhythm leaps to life on the instruments Muti and his percussionists re-imagined. One drum, the Brazilian surdo, is double-headed. Its two skins have different tunings mating the powerful bass sound with the loud, high sound of the timbau of African origin that's played like a Cuban drum. Another instrument which adds flavor to Muti's keyboard and the drums is the berimbau, a single-stringed bow with a twanging sound. It arrived in Bahia with African slaves and dates far back in time.
Muti is so excited about his electronic discoveries that he has approached companies making video controls only to find that they simply do not understand what he is talking about. He plans to continue canvassing them until he meets someone in the business who sees the logic. Even audience members are skeptical at first until he invites them to play the instruments as they would a video game.
Since video games have become part of our culture and all children know how to operate them, Muti believes it only natural that the technology can be adapted for use in other ways and wants his audiences to discover that it's possible to look to the future without losing the past.
Emily Cary is a prize-winning teacher and novelist whose articles about entertainers appear regularly in the DC Examiner. She is a genealogist, an avid traveler, and a researcher who incorporates landscapes, cultures and the power of music in her books and articles.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Percussivo-Mundo-Novo-Merges-the-Past-With-the-Future&id=6601959] Percussivo Mundo Novo Merges the Past With the Future
Percussivo Mundo Novo is not your typical electronic band. Leader Mikael Muti and his colleagues hail from Salvador in Bahia, one of Brazil's largest provinces where percussion instruments and traditions hark back more than 500 years to Africa. Muti has combined the old and new cultures in his ensemble of re-designed computer-operated drums.
After working with electronic music since '96 to get the flavor of Brazilian percussion on the keyboard, he was not content with the standard method. Doggedly, he played around until he discovered how to do it with video game controls using a touch-screen and Guitar Hero controller.
On his guitar, he has an iPod, a video controller and a telephone. Each button on the phone makes a different sound. The idea was never to replace the real instruments but to find interesting ways of using new technologies to enhance them.
Because Bahia originally was a major destination in the slave trade, it is today the largest African state outside the continent. The African-Brazilian religious culture colors all aspects of society there, none more than the traditional street party, where Muti and his ensemble first exhibited the concept that had sprung to life in his studio.
While they were playing, he kept hearing a voice inside his head telling him they must give something back in their performance. He did not realize they were performing a religious ritual at the street party until a spiritual master approached him and confirmed that they had done something important for the gods.
The samba rhythm leaps to life on the instruments Muti and his percussionists re-imagined. One drum, the Brazilian surdo, is double-headed. Its two skins have different tunings mating the powerful bass sound with the loud, high sound of the timbau of African origin that's played like a Cuban drum. Another instrument which adds flavor to Muti's keyboard and the drums is the berimbau, a single-stringed bow with a twanging sound. It arrived in Bahia with African slaves and dates far back in time.
Muti is so excited about his electronic discoveries that he has approached companies making video controls only to find that they simply do not understand what he is talking about. He plans to continue canvassing them until he meets someone in the business who sees the logic. Even audience members are skeptical at first until he invites them to play the instruments as they would a video game.
Since video games have become part of our culture and all children know how to operate them, Muti believes it only natural that the technology can be adapted for use in other ways and wants his audiences to discover that it's possible to look to the future without losing the past.
Emily Cary is a prize-winning teacher and novelist whose articles about entertainers appear regularly in the DC Examiner. She is a genealogist, an avid traveler, and a researcher who incorporates landscapes, cultures and the power of music in her books and articles.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Percussivo-Mundo-Novo-Merges-the-Past-With-the-Future&id=6601959] Percussivo Mundo Novo Merges the Past With the Future
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Brian McKnight, R and B Superstar
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Emily_Cary]Emily Cary
With a string of platinum albums to his name and more Grammy Award nominations than any other artist without a win, Brian McKnight launched his Just Me Tour with his brother, Claude McKnight of the gospel group Take 6, and his sons B. J. and Niko of BRKN RBTZ (Broken Robotz).
When he put together his fourteenth album, which was released July 12, 2011, he thought it was important to remember that people everywhere have troubles that are difficult to overcome. It seemed to him a good time to combine new tracks with some of his old songs for the people who want to go back to something meaningful.
This tour is the first time McKnight and his brother have sung together since they were children. Growing in up a large, musical family in Buffalo, New York, they participated in church and school music programs. Claude, five years older, signed a record deal in 1987 and Brian followed suit in 1992. Along the way, he mastered nine instruments. When he is not playing one of them or singing in his expressive voice, he can be found composing, arranging or producing. He loves everything he does and when he goes to bed each night he thinks about what he's accomplished during the day and wonders what the next day promises. When he composes, he has no set pattern. The creation starts in his head. The moment something promising materializes, he might be sitting with his guitar watching a sports program.
Several seasons ago, McKnight was one of the celebrities featured on the then number one TV show, "Celebrity Apprentice." After members of Donald Trump's staff first approached him, he realized it was a win-win situation between the opportunity to earn money for worthwhile charities and the publicity the show provided for the various participants. When the men's team finally won a challenge on the fourth try, he recalls the relief they felt and the pride in that accomplishment. Best of all, he enjoyed getting to know some people he had met briefly or only heard about and establishing new friendships for life.
The Billboard Songwriter of the Year is known for his congeniality. Over the years, he has collaborated with dozens of the top musicians of our time, among them Quincy Jones, Mariah Carey, Justin Timberlake, Willie Nelson, Kenny G and Josh Grobin. His most meaningful partnerships, however, are with family members. His greatest pleasure is working with his brother and his sons. If possible, he would also include his 21 first cousins.
This current tour, he confesses, has provided more fun than any of the past. One of his favorite moments is singing the National Anthem, something he has done at baseball games and all his shows since 9/11. By looking around at his audiences and studying their faces, he realizes that the Anthem has taken on new meaning. Because he dislikes living in a day and time that is becoming jaded, he wants people to learn how to fall in love again and discover that life can be better.
Emily Cary is a prize-winning teacher and novelist whose articles about entertainers appear regularly in the DC Examiner. She is a genealogist, an avid traveler, and a researcher who incorporates landscapes, cultures and the power of music in her books and articles.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Brian-McKnight,-R-and-B-Superstar&id=6602314] Brian McKnight, R and B Superstar
With a string of platinum albums to his name and more Grammy Award nominations than any other artist without a win, Brian McKnight launched his Just Me Tour with his brother, Claude McKnight of the gospel group Take 6, and his sons B. J. and Niko of BRKN RBTZ (Broken Robotz).
When he put together his fourteenth album, which was released July 12, 2011, he thought it was important to remember that people everywhere have troubles that are difficult to overcome. It seemed to him a good time to combine new tracks with some of his old songs for the people who want to go back to something meaningful.
This tour is the first time McKnight and his brother have sung together since they were children. Growing in up a large, musical family in Buffalo, New York, they participated in church and school music programs. Claude, five years older, signed a record deal in 1987 and Brian followed suit in 1992. Along the way, he mastered nine instruments. When he is not playing one of them or singing in his expressive voice, he can be found composing, arranging or producing. He loves everything he does and when he goes to bed each night he thinks about what he's accomplished during the day and wonders what the next day promises. When he composes, he has no set pattern. The creation starts in his head. The moment something promising materializes, he might be sitting with his guitar watching a sports program.
Several seasons ago, McKnight was one of the celebrities featured on the then number one TV show, "Celebrity Apprentice." After members of Donald Trump's staff first approached him, he realized it was a win-win situation between the opportunity to earn money for worthwhile charities and the publicity the show provided for the various participants. When the men's team finally won a challenge on the fourth try, he recalls the relief they felt and the pride in that accomplishment. Best of all, he enjoyed getting to know some people he had met briefly or only heard about and establishing new friendships for life.
The Billboard Songwriter of the Year is known for his congeniality. Over the years, he has collaborated with dozens of the top musicians of our time, among them Quincy Jones, Mariah Carey, Justin Timberlake, Willie Nelson, Kenny G and Josh Grobin. His most meaningful partnerships, however, are with family members. His greatest pleasure is working with his brother and his sons. If possible, he would also include his 21 first cousins.
This current tour, he confesses, has provided more fun than any of the past. One of his favorite moments is singing the National Anthem, something he has done at baseball games and all his shows since 9/11. By looking around at his audiences and studying their faces, he realizes that the Anthem has taken on new meaning. Because he dislikes living in a day and time that is becoming jaded, he wants people to learn how to fall in love again and discover that life can be better.
Emily Cary is a prize-winning teacher and novelist whose articles about entertainers appear regularly in the DC Examiner. She is a genealogist, an avid traveler, and a researcher who incorporates landscapes, cultures and the power of music in her books and articles.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Brian-McKnight,-R-and-B-Superstar&id=6602314] Brian McKnight, R and B Superstar
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Judy Collins: Musician, Writer and Activist
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Emily_Cary]Emily Cary
During her 52 years of music making, Judy Collins has utilized her multiple talents. Her folk artist persona won a Grammy Award in 1968. The classical piano student remembered her unbending teacher in the documentary, "Antonia: A Portrait of the Woman," nominated for an Academy Award in 1975. The fervent activist campaigned for just causes in her songs and in the courthouse. The author has penned one novel and six non-fiction books, two of them memoirs. Her most recent book, "Sanity and Grace: A Journey of Suicide, Survival and Strength," reflects on the suicide of her son.
Accepting life as a mixture of sad things and celebrations, she has been recording her thoughts since junior high school and has always kept a journal. She admits that some days she I would rather be writing than singing. She wrote a song book in 1969 and by the time she wrote her first memoir in 1987, she couldn't stop.
During a conversation, she admitted that she finds it hard to live in the present because she is always looking back at those who came before her. She enjoys going to ancestry.com and reading about the first family member who emigrated to the United States, a preacher from Dorset, England who came in 1811. There were lots of preachers in her family, including a great-uncle who was a missionary in China and a big game hunter. He shot many lions at a time when lions were menaces.
As she continues to tour the world and record, Collins seeks songwriters whose words speak to her. "Paradise," the most recent album on her Wildflower label, is a remarkable mixture of evergreen numbers like "Over the Rainbow" and "Ghost Riders in the Sky" and songs for the 21st Century.
Perhaps the most poignant is "Kingdom Come," the song she dedicated to the New York firemen lost at 9/11. "Weight of the World" introduces the fresh voice of Amy Speace, a former Shakespearean actress, who owes her new career to an accidental meeting with Collins' manager. The song was named #4 Folk Song of the Decade by New York radio station WFUV.
Of all the causes Collins has championed in the past, she says that anti-war was the most important and she considers 'Weight of the World' to be as good as any anti-war song she has heard. The album also has a new song about Gauguin and duets with Joan Baez and Steven Stills.
Perhaps the most poignant of her songs to be introduced in the next album is one she wrote for her mother before she died last year. She calls it 'In The Twilight' because that is where her mother was. It joins other tales of heartache and troubles found in the album's folk songs and covers.
Emily Cary is a prize-winning teacher and novelist whose articles about entertainers appear regularly in the DC Examiner. She is a genealogist, an avid traveler, and a researcher who incorporates landscapes, cultures and the power of music in her books and articles.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Judy-Collins:-Musician,-Writer-and-Activist&id=6602135] Judy Collins: Musician, Writer and Activist
During her 52 years of music making, Judy Collins has utilized her multiple talents. Her folk artist persona won a Grammy Award in 1968. The classical piano student remembered her unbending teacher in the documentary, "Antonia: A Portrait of the Woman," nominated for an Academy Award in 1975. The fervent activist campaigned for just causes in her songs and in the courthouse. The author has penned one novel and six non-fiction books, two of them memoirs. Her most recent book, "Sanity and Grace: A Journey of Suicide, Survival and Strength," reflects on the suicide of her son.
Accepting life as a mixture of sad things and celebrations, she has been recording her thoughts since junior high school and has always kept a journal. She admits that some days she I would rather be writing than singing. She wrote a song book in 1969 and by the time she wrote her first memoir in 1987, she couldn't stop.
During a conversation, she admitted that she finds it hard to live in the present because she is always looking back at those who came before her. She enjoys going to ancestry.com and reading about the first family member who emigrated to the United States, a preacher from Dorset, England who came in 1811. There were lots of preachers in her family, including a great-uncle who was a missionary in China and a big game hunter. He shot many lions at a time when lions were menaces.
As she continues to tour the world and record, Collins seeks songwriters whose words speak to her. "Paradise," the most recent album on her Wildflower label, is a remarkable mixture of evergreen numbers like "Over the Rainbow" and "Ghost Riders in the Sky" and songs for the 21st Century.
Perhaps the most poignant is "Kingdom Come," the song she dedicated to the New York firemen lost at 9/11. "Weight of the World" introduces the fresh voice of Amy Speace, a former Shakespearean actress, who owes her new career to an accidental meeting with Collins' manager. The song was named #4 Folk Song of the Decade by New York radio station WFUV.
Of all the causes Collins has championed in the past, she says that anti-war was the most important and she considers 'Weight of the World' to be as good as any anti-war song she has heard. The album also has a new song about Gauguin and duets with Joan Baez and Steven Stills.
Perhaps the most poignant of her songs to be introduced in the next album is one she wrote for her mother before she died last year. She calls it 'In The Twilight' because that is where her mother was. It joins other tales of heartache and troubles found in the album's folk songs and covers.
Emily Cary is a prize-winning teacher and novelist whose articles about entertainers appear regularly in the DC Examiner. She is a genealogist, an avid traveler, and a researcher who incorporates landscapes, cultures and the power of music in her books and articles.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Judy-Collins:-Musician,-Writer-and-Activist&id=6602135] Judy Collins: Musician, Writer and Activist
Friday, December 2, 2011
The Five Browns
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Emily_Cary]Emily Cary
The 5 Browns, the astonishing family of pianists who play together, grew up in Salt Lake City where music plays a major role in family, school and church traditions. After gaining poise and experience participating in piano competitions, siblings Desirae, Deondra, Gregory, Melody and Ryan traveled to New York City to audition at the Juilliard School of Music. All five were admitted at the same time.
Each was intent on a solo career until their senior year when the two older girls, Desirae and Deondra, formed a duo partnership. Fate intervened shortly after graduation when Sony suggested that they cut a recording featuring all five.
Wanting to entertain by showing who they are, they decided that the two older sisters would play works for four hands and the three younger would play separately as soloists. But in the end, it was agreed that all five should play together. This required finding repertoire that could be arranged for five pianists. They then turned to pianist/arranger Greg Anderson, a friend and fellow Juilliard graduate who continues to arrange for them and fills in on rare occasions in when one of the five is unable to be there.
Their self-titled debut album of popular classics rocketed to number 1 on Billboard's Classical Album Chart. In the wake of its success, they appeared on Oprah, 60 Minutes and other major shows. The viewing audience was enchanted by their fresh faces and astounding talent times five.
Since reawakening adults and children alike to the delight of playing the piano, they have toured throughout the world and completed four more albums: "Browns in Blue," "5 Stars," "No Boundaries" and "The 5 Browns in Hollywood." These are far more adventurous than might be expected from serious musicians.
As youngsters, they played only the classics, never jazz or ragtime, but that changed when they were contemplating a second album. The goal was to reach a larger demographic by incorporating less serious numbers.
Their fourth album, "No Boundaries," ranges even wider, from the folk favorite "Simple Gifts" to Argentine tangos. Their most recent album is an emotional romp from joy to terror. A pleasing potpourri of memorable film scores and themes, it incorporates a Disney movie medley, the "Star Wars" Suite, the "Psycho" prelude and the chase scene from "North By Northwest."
As Steinway Artists, the 5 Browns perform on pianos transported by Wheaton World Wide Movers. After an initial few years of constant travel, they have adjusted their schedule to suit their families (all five are married). Now they limit road trips to two weeks per month.
Their number one goal when playing before audiences of all ages is to shake things up, break down barriers and help young people be introduced to and enriched by classical music.
Emily Cary is a prize-winning teacher and novelist whose articles about entertainers appear regularly in the DC Examiner. She is a genealogist, an avid traveler, and a researcher who incorporates landscapes, cultures and the power of music in her books and articles.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Five-Browns&id=6601904] The Five Browns
The 5 Browns, the astonishing family of pianists who play together, grew up in Salt Lake City where music plays a major role in family, school and church traditions. After gaining poise and experience participating in piano competitions, siblings Desirae, Deondra, Gregory, Melody and Ryan traveled to New York City to audition at the Juilliard School of Music. All five were admitted at the same time.
Each was intent on a solo career until their senior year when the two older girls, Desirae and Deondra, formed a duo partnership. Fate intervened shortly after graduation when Sony suggested that they cut a recording featuring all five.
Wanting to entertain by showing who they are, they decided that the two older sisters would play works for four hands and the three younger would play separately as soloists. But in the end, it was agreed that all five should play together. This required finding repertoire that could be arranged for five pianists. They then turned to pianist/arranger Greg Anderson, a friend and fellow Juilliard graduate who continues to arrange for them and fills in on rare occasions in when one of the five is unable to be there.
Their self-titled debut album of popular classics rocketed to number 1 on Billboard's Classical Album Chart. In the wake of its success, they appeared on Oprah, 60 Minutes and other major shows. The viewing audience was enchanted by their fresh faces and astounding talent times five.
Since reawakening adults and children alike to the delight of playing the piano, they have toured throughout the world and completed four more albums: "Browns in Blue," "5 Stars," "No Boundaries" and "The 5 Browns in Hollywood." These are far more adventurous than might be expected from serious musicians.
As youngsters, they played only the classics, never jazz or ragtime, but that changed when they were contemplating a second album. The goal was to reach a larger demographic by incorporating less serious numbers.
Their fourth album, "No Boundaries," ranges even wider, from the folk favorite "Simple Gifts" to Argentine tangos. Their most recent album is an emotional romp from joy to terror. A pleasing potpourri of memorable film scores and themes, it incorporates a Disney movie medley, the "Star Wars" Suite, the "Psycho" prelude and the chase scene from "North By Northwest."
As Steinway Artists, the 5 Browns perform on pianos transported by Wheaton World Wide Movers. After an initial few years of constant travel, they have adjusted their schedule to suit their families (all five are married). Now they limit road trips to two weeks per month.
Their number one goal when playing before audiences of all ages is to shake things up, break down barriers and help young people be introduced to and enriched by classical music.
Emily Cary is a prize-winning teacher and novelist whose articles about entertainers appear regularly in the DC Examiner. She is a genealogist, an avid traveler, and a researcher who incorporates landscapes, cultures and the power of music in her books and articles.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Five-Browns&id=6601904] The Five Browns
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