News (The Latest Happenings)

Current Date:

What's New...

Hi everybody,

I hope that all has been going well for you so far this year. It has been a great adventure for me and the year is not even half way done.

I want to take a little time to thank all of my family and friends for always being there when I need you most. Your support is truly appreciated.

As always, if you have any questions or comments please refer to the Request Form.

April 22, 2005

Studio Training Workshop: Vocalists

The Spring Term has ended marking the first time that I have taught my workshop for the Music/Recording Industry (MRI) Program at San Francisco State University (SFSU). It has been a beautiful marriage thus far and just like with any good marriage, it is my hope that it continues for some time to come. Once again I would like to especially thank Evelyn Miller-Mack, Jon Bendich, Larry Batiste, and Joy Thompson for being instrumental in making what has proven to be a wonderful experience happen.

The workshop went fabulously. I had some very talented students (mp3 sample of students singing bkgd on a track) this term. They learned very fast and really did a great job. I'm proud of each and everyone of them.

Students Celeste & Adam checking out voice processors on the computer.

The next workshop is scheduled for:

Summer 2005
Tuesdays, June 7 to August 16, 2005
6-8:45pm

For those that are still not "in the know" about the workshop. The “Studio Training Workshop: Vocalists” is an 11 week (one 3 hour class day per week) course designed to help bridge the gap between the academic and professional music worlds by providing aspiring singers and producers with hands-on experience in the environment of a professional recording studio. Students will be guided through a myriad of subjects including recording studio basics, professionalism, union basics, taking care of business, as well as vocal techniques for both lead and background studio singing. Students will learn techniques on proper headphone use, how to blend with others, choosing the right microphone, protocol for session singers, guide to finding employment as a session singer, and much more. The class will culminate in a visit by a recording artist, engineer, or producer. This comprehensive workshop covers the basic training necessary to pursue a career as a professional studio vocalist.

Anyone interested in taking the workshop please go to claytoven.com/studiotraining, SFSU Course Info, or Online Registration. Further questions can be directed to info@claytoven.com or the MRI Department (415) 405-3374

"Rent" the Movie

"Five hundred twenty five thousand six hundred minutes.
Five hundred twenty five thousand six hundred moments so dear.
Five hundred twenty five thousand six hundred minutes.
How do you measure a life in a year?"

Great vocal parts and what a challenge...

Recognize those lyrics? They are from the award winning play "Rent". And what a break for many of the Bay Area's top vocals. You see, Rent Productions has recently embarked upon producing the movie version of the award winning play "Rent". And yours truly was one of the blessed few that got the opportunity to sing on the soundtrack for the movie. It was a tremendously awe inspiring experience; especially, since the sessions were done at Northern California's Skywalker Ranch (Star Wars soundtrack ring a bell?).

Some of the session notables were Jeanie Tracy, Larry Batiste, Annie Stocking, Sakai, and Sandy Griffith, to name just a few.

SLSI Voice Camp

St Mary's College
Background at sound check for that night's open mic.

Once again I will be teaching the

Background Vocal Workshops
at the Seth Riggs
Speech Level Singing Institution's
Voice Camp
from July 28 to August 7, 2005

on the beautiful Mount Saint Mary's College campus in Los Angeles, California. This is the perfect opportunity to experience first hand the art of singing live background vocals. It's also the perfect time to immerse yourself in the technique of Speech Level Singing.

This year's incredible teaching staff will also be conducting classes in: the Music Business, Musical Theater, Acting, Song Writing, Piano for Singers, and much more. If you would like to find out more about the camp please go to www.sethriggs.com.

Please fill out our Request Form for more information.