Discovering Different Roles Of A Voice Artist

By Jerry Wood


When working with film, television, stage or audio sound, there are several different aspects in which an individual can perform. One of which is that of a voice artist. These individuals can range from being someone involved in a poetry and spoken word community, a radio talk show host or Disc Jockey(DJ) to someone who narrates film and television. While this is the case, there are often many other areas in which individuals working in the vocal arts can be found contributing talent.

Generally referred to as voice actors, the term can also indicate a person which provides voice overs for public service announcements and television. When it comes to television, these individuals can either be narrators or show hosts such as Jeff Probst, Nick Cannon and Ryan Seacrest. While DJs primarily select and play different cuts of music, many also make announcements related to news and weather. As such, these individuals are often thought to be working in the field of voice acting.

While there are pre-programmed announcements, news and weather reports, most often these are provided by others. As such, while still related, simply playing the material does not necessarily make one a voice actor or artist. Whereas, those who create this material are definitely considered to be working in the field.

The term DJ now focuses on two aspects of the field. The first being the traditional disc jockey who works at a radio station. The second, being someone whom plays, spins and scratches music at festivals and nightclubs. While the latter remains extremely popular, many traditional DJs have lost work due to the creation of i-pods and CD players.

The field is quite competitive though individuals interested in this work can often find an outlet. For example, another aspect of this work is that of a MC. A MC is someone who makes announcements and introduces artists at music festivals and other events. In fact, many individuals develop a career in this area. For, MCs are often needed at parties, wedding receptions and other events.

When it comes to Hollywood, there are specialized companies and websites which offer work in this field. One example of this type website is that of Voices dot com. A website to which these individuals can subscribe to locate information on current auditions and opportunities. While there is no degree often required to become a professional actor in voice, those whom have a Bachelors of Arts with a major or minor in Theater Arts are most likely going to be given preferential treatment in the hiring process.

Other individuals working in this area, while most volunteers are poetry slam hosts and MCs. Although, while most start as volunteers, MCs often later create a business by announcing at public events, festivals, weddings and other celebrations for a fee. Whereas, poetry slam hosts often collect donations for featured poets and special guests, yet take nothing for oneself in the process.

Ultimately, the best jobs are going to be found in areas in which film is at the forefront such as Austin, Hollywood and the Northern coast of California. While this is the case, there are also a number companies who hire vocal artists to do online work. In these cases, individuals must often read from a script into a mp3 file, then forward the file to a talent scout.




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