Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are voice-overs?
A: Voice-overs are the spoken parts you hear in radio and tv commercials,
automated telephone systems, answering machine messages, audiobooks, movie trailers, infomercials, training videos, video games,
etc.
Q: Do I have to be a radio announcer or an actor?
A: No, not at all. In fact, people with normal sounding voices
are in high demand.
Q: Do I have to join a union and pay dues?
A: No. You can choose to be union or non-union. Most of the
parts you land early on will be non-union. Generally speaking,
you only see union work in the larger markets.
Q: Do I need an agent or a manager?
A: No. Many voice actors never have agents. They manage themselves.
Q: How much money can I make in voice-overs?
A: That will depend on your level of talent and how much effort
you put into it.
Q: How will I know if I have the talent for voice-overs?
A: Generally, you get a good sense of your vocal abilities
during your first coaching and recording session. However,
don't be too hard on yourself at first. It may take a few
sessions to find out if voice-overs are for you.
Q: What equipment do I need to get started?
A: Initially you don't need any equipment. All you need are
scripts and a place to practice reading aloud. A small recorder
is helpful when practicing, but not neccessary.
Q: What do I need to get auditions?
A: You'll definitely need a "Demo Reel" so potential clients
can hear samples of your voice. You'll need a telephone, and a computer with
Internet and Email is essential. You should have business cards and
you may even want your own web site.
Q: Do I need a home studio?
A: Not at first, however once you get serious about voice-over,
you'll probably want to set one up. Many voice actors find
that a home studio enables them to work, practice and create
at any time of the day or night.
Q: What is a "Demo Reel" and why do I need one?
A: The "Demo Reel" is a professionally recorded
and produced CD or mp3 consisting of various segments that
feature you doing your best voice work. You'll need a demo
reel in order for people to hear your voice samples and to
get auditions and parts.
Q: Do I have to take all the voice coaching workshops
you offer?
A: No. It's highly individual and you only take workshops that interest you.
Q: Do you offer private voice coaching sessions?
A: Yes. In fact all our voice sessions are private, one-on-one.
Q: Why can't I just read a book about Voice-overs
and learn that way?
A: There are several books about the voice-over business and
I suggest you read them all. Each one strongly recommends
hiring a "voice coach". Plus, you actually need
to get into the studio to record and hear yourself. Private,
one-on-one workshops are an easy and smart way to get off
to a good start. Many successful people in movies, television,
radio, music, the stage and even business professionals all
work with voice coaches.
Q: Are you a management company or talent agency?
A: No. I am perfectly happy to let you manage yourself. However,
I am here to help and offer continous consultation. I also
provide casting referrals on a percentage basis.
Q: Are there any additional fees or hidden charges
for voice sessions?
A: No. You pay nothing except the fee for the sessions.
Scripts, CDs and other materials are supplied without charge.
Q: What if I need help managing my voice-over business?
A: I am available to consult with you on marketing, self-promotion,
web site design, demo production, studio set-up and continious
voice coaching.
Q: When and where are the coaching sessions held?
A: Most sessions are held in the afternoon or early evening
and on Saturdays in my private, fully equipped home studio
in Vernon, CT (just 13 miles east of Hartford). We also offer
voice-over classes at Manchester
Community College.
Q: How do I sign up and pay for a voice coaching
session?
A: To reserve and hold your spot, payment or deposit is required
two (2) weeks in advance of your sscheduled date. For complete
details contact me by phone; 800.970.5151 or by email; info@voiceoverworkshop.com
Q: I have more questions. How can I get answers to
them?
A: I'm usually available by phone (800.970.5151) 10:00am to
6:00pm eastern, Monday through Saturday. When I'm in the studio
(which is often) the answering machine will pick up. Please
leave your name and number and I'll call you back shortly.
You can always reach me by email; info@voiceoverworkshop.com
DISCLAIMER:
Voice Over Workshop LLC is not an occupational school or higher
education facility. We do not offer graduation or issue diplomas
or certificates for completion of our workshops. We do not
guarantee employment or make any claims regarding future success
or earnings.
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REFUND POLICY FOR WORKSHOPS AND COACHING SESSIONS
Refunds will be determined on the following basis:
Single Sessions
If a reserved session is cancelled 48 hours prior to the scheduled
start time where no studio time has been used and no workshop
materials issued, Voice Over Workshop LLC will refund the
total amount of any deposits received.
If a reserved session is cancelled "day of" where
no studio time has been used and no workshop materials issued,
Voice Over Workshop LLC will refund the total amount of any
deposits received, less $50.00 for the first hour of reserved
studio time.
Multiple Sessions
If a reserved and unused session is cancelled anytime after
a session has taken place and where workshop materials have
been issued, Voice Over Workshop LLC will refund the total
of any deposits received, less $50.00 for the first hour of
the next reserved studio time. All refunds are issued by check
from Voice Over Workshop LLC within 30 days of refund determination.
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Call or email for voice-over information.
Stew "Beef Stew" Crossen
800.970.5151 - 860.871.7515
info@voiceoverworkshop.com
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