“You play keyboards … like you’re a drummer!”

That’s what our drummer said to me one day at a band rehearsal in 1992, when he decided to wear headphones!

Playing live in a club, there’s a lot of loud stuff happening.  Drums banging, cymbals clanging, the bass thundering (through hopefully a great map like a Trace Eliot), and of course those rhythmic guitars!  But where does that leave the keyboards?

Well generally speaking a keyboard player has a lot of room to look for the holes in the sound, find his or her pocket … and play!

Influenced mostly by the rhythmic players such as Elton John, Burton Cummings and Billy Joel, I always took to stage a heavy set of hands that focused in on the complex rhythms fed by a drummer.  On that day in 1992, our drummer John discovered the ear candy he had been missing when he put on a set of headphones, and was able to hear a lot of the fine detail that normally only those in the audience got to hear (through of course the massive PA speakers).

The Royalty-Free Music Collection, Grand Piano Grooves, is a compilation of piano influenced rhythms.  You’ll also find that these tunes were tailor made for internet marketing audio, such as background music for your youtube videos, ebook intros, and instrumentals for podcasts and blog talk radio.

Click here to listen to samples of Grand Piano Grooves.

Music - to the heart of the matter

I am very honored to see my royalty-free music used as a tribute to 9/11. Featured in this Ken English video production is the music track: Brass Masters. Download a free copy of BRASS MASTERS music track,
or order your complete BRASS MASTERS set with Resale Rights.

Watch this video on youtube

George Santayana (1863 1952), a Spanish philosopher, essayist, poet, and novelist once said that those who forget the past are condemned to repeat it. Throughout our lives, we have often been reminded to learn from our mistakes. Time and time again we see people around us making the same errors in judgment without learning from them. Video by Ken English, the BlogTalkRadioGuy

[digg=http://digg.com/music/Memory_Lives_On_Never_Forget_What_Happened_9_11]

Grand Piano Grooves - one of those truly CLASSY music packages that will add the professional element to your multi-media productions that will show your subscribers and customers that you’re successful.

A full track list and samples are right here: http://ginnyculp.com/royalty-free-music-grand-piano-grooves.html

Royalty Free Music - Producers Pack 3

Producers Pack 3 - Royalty Free Music

Become A Voice-Over Artist

In the world of info-products in audio form, there are many types of products to consider.

Everything from podcasting, to interviews, and web site greetings to audio e-books. One question often asked, is whether or not a person should do their OWN voice overs or whether they should hire a professional voice over artist.

If you have decided you’ll be doing your own, then today’s post is just for you! I’ll be answering some of the common questions that people ask about launching a new career as a voice over artist.

Transferable Skills

What types of skills are transferable to becoming a successful voice over artist?

Although it may be obvious, but it’s still worth mentioning that it begins with the voice.  Some of your past experience might make this an easy transition.  Ideally you would have some past experience at PUBLIC SPEAKING (into a microphone).  Here are some examples: radio announcers, musicians, vocalists, teachers, public speakers, trainers, podcasters, and so forth.

The common element in all of these careers is that you already have a command of your voice, understand voice projection and have a clear command of your language.

What do I do if I don’t have any experience?

If you don’t yet have any experience, consider joining your local chapter of toastmasters.  Although your speeches aren’t typically recorded, it will provide you with invaluable public speaking experience.

Software Required for Voice Overs

Prior to purchasing expensive recording software, yes it’s a good idea to start with the free audio editors.  As you gain more experience your wish list will grow also, and you’ll learn what other features you would like to have.

PC Users:  The place to begin is AUDACITY.

Mac Users:  Macs today come complete with GarageBand installed.  Garageband v3 also has some pre-built podcasting tools such as “ducking” which fades the background music as you speak.

For additional information on internet audio and voice overs, grab your free 7-part e-course.  Discover How To Turn E-Books Into New Money Makers.