FAQs
FAQs for Workshops
-
You bet! For the online classes, you’ll receive a link for the recording to review and for in-studio classes, you’ll receive an audio recording of all of your takes in the booth...and maybe even some awesome pics of you working your magic. : )
-
Yes, you absolutely can! Simply email Janice and she’ll send feedback, suggestions and even some homework from the instructor.
-
Nope. All you need is a computer with a camera and a speaker.
(A headset or headphones are good so we can hear you better!) If you have a studio, terrific! Feel free to tune in from your booth but it’s not a requirement.
-
Everyone starts from where they are. Regardless of your previous training or experience, everyone can learn something new and also learn a lot from listening to others!
-
Taking a couple of classes won’t necessarily mean you’re gonna be ready for a demo. Working towards a demo is a process. Some performers take a course with a guaranteed demo at the end…but what if you’re not ready? You definitely want to know how to prep your scripts. How to audition well. Know what casting directors are looking for. Know how to take direction! And that takes time and practice.
It’s important to begin to fill up your ‘VO Tool Box’ first!
Everytime you take a class, practice at home, record yourself and listen back, you’re gaining more self awareness in order to be prepared for any opportunity.
If you’re new to VO, then you need to get comfortable in the booth, working with a mic, prepping your scripts and taking direction from different coaches. Taking classes gives you the opportunity to have fun while learning all aspects of VO while gaining confidence!
-
For online workshops, at least 48 hours cancellation notice required for full refund.
Due to the cost of facilities and coaches, refunds are not offered for in-studio workshops.
(Exceptions might be possible if there is a waiting list but are not guaranteed).
FAQs for Parents
-
Every child starts from where they are. They tend to pick up new ideas and skills so quickly - no experience necessary and all kids are welcome! They do need to be able to read at a basic level as there are scripts and written exercises used in the classes.
-
Yes, eventually they will need a demo that an agent uses to get the kids auditions.
Some skills need to be learned before recording a demo as the kids will be required to have some understanding of how things work, like taking simple direction from a director, how close to be to the microphone, what not to touch! and also how much energy is required!
In terms of an agent, there are a lot of reputable agents out there that have kids on their roster. An agent will never ask for money but they may ask for a headshot (professional picture) and a voice demo. These are the tools that the agent needs to promote your child.
-
Nope! We write custom scripts for our demos based on your child's voice, age and personality.
-
A lot of casting directors are looking for kids to voice recurring roles on cartoons and animated films. Some kids will work quite a bit up until their voice changes.
-
No, you do not need a professional studio at home but you will need a method for recording your child's auditions. We’re lucky to have Dave, our Tech Maniac, who helps folks set up a home studio on any budget. :)
FAQs for 1:1 Training
-
Starting with a 1:1 online is a great way to start! Learn the basics, industry info and practice simple scripts to get you started using your voice with some colour, dynamics and inflection.
-
If you're just getting started in VO, we don’t recommend jumping into the booth right away.
We think it’s important to learn some basics first, discover how to approach your scripts and have a basic understanding of the industry and how it works.
1:1 online sessions are a fantastic way to begin! When ready, getting into the booth to practice is absolutely necessary so that you can integrate everything you're learning while getting comfy with the microphone and headphones.
-
Taking a few 1:1 classes doesn’t necessarily mean you’re gonna be ready to launch your VO career. It’s a process. Some performers take a course with a guaranteed demo at the end…but what if you’re not ready?
You want to make sure you’re prepared for any opportunity! Prepping your scripts effectively, how to stand out in your auditions and interpreting direction are all skills you need to learn. It’s important to begin to fill up your ‘VO Tool Box’ and 1:1 training will help get you ready!
Learning something new takes time...and practice.
At DemoManiacs we want to make sure that you feel confident and prepared before recording your demo. And when you’re ready, we’ll help!
-
Absolutely! Studying with various coaches not only gives you the opportunity to learn different perspectives on approaching your scripts and performing but it also introduces you to different styles of direction!
-
Please give us a 24-hour notice if you wish to cancel or reschedule your 1:1 Training session. We understand that sometimes an emergency situation may arise, in this instance, please give notice as soon as you are able and we will do our best to reschedule your session.
No refunds are provided.
FAQs for Demos
-
This is a great question. There is a misconception in this business that you record a demo and then get ready for your VO career…we believe it's the opposite! You study and prepare for your VO career and when you're ready to perform, only then do you record your demo.
Sure, you can record a shiny, super produced demo but what if you can't back it up? What if you book a gig directly from your demo and you don’t yet have experience taking direction? Then what? Eeek.
You want to make sure you’re prepared for any opportunity! Prepping your scripts effectively, how to stand out in your auditions and interpreting direction are all skills you need to learn. It’s important to begin to fill up your ‘VO Tool Box’ and training + homework will help get you ready!
Learning something new takes time...and practice.
At DemoManiacs we want to make sure that you feel confident and prepared before recording your demo.
When you’re ready, we’ll be right there to guide you. :)
-
That depends. How much coaching do you want before and during the session? Are you confident with bringing your own scripts or would you prefer us to write them for you?
Whether you’d like a lot of coaching/hand holding or you’re ready to jump into the booth tomorrow and get ‘er done, we are excited to book some time with you to create your unique demo!
-
Nope. We will take care of all that. You can bring some scripts with you and we’ll make some choices together. We will chat about scripts in our demo consult call.
-
Nope. All music and sound effects are included in the production of your demo. Any background music or sfx should support and enhance your voice on your demos and not overwhelm. We carefully choose background music that works with your unique sound to create an entertaining and creative snapshot of what you do best!
-
On a commercial demo there are usually around 5-6 spots for a total of 90 seconds.
Audiobook, Narration and Animation demos tend to be a wee bit longer. We usually record too many spots and then we can narrow down what highlights your voice the best. We send you the demo and outtakes in an mp3 format.
-
50% of the cost required before the record and 50% on receipt of the demo. No refunds.
