07/28/2024
Well...I am a little worried what I seem to be seeing popping up around WV. It looks like small "entertainment" businesses/ agencies are promising young folks and their families opportunities of touring, performing in big venues, and living the life of a star. I have seen this more times than I can count in NC and SC. I hope the parents get a lawyer to read over any contracts. These "entertainment" companies main goal is to make a profit. If your child is no longer getting traction they will be forgotten about to move on to the next big thing. I have been extremely fortunate to work with some of the most talented young individuals in several states with some makign a name for themselves, and some buckling to the stress of always trying to be better and stay relevant. I know WV has some very talented individuals with some who have the moxy to make into the big time. I am for nurturing young musicians to find a passion for the Arts, and training them to find solutions to healthily attain their goals. If you want to truly develop your craft as a performer then perform: play in coffee shops, open air markets, in groups or ensembles (great way to develop you r ear and be exposed to many other influential music), collaborate writing songs with other local artists, post videos on social media, busk, and again listen/learn music from all styles (too many young musical artists focus on one style: ie. musical theater, vocal stylings of specific current artists, competitive music groups, and any other ensemble that has a narrowly stylalized sound. Several times in the past, I had students join my audition choirs and/or my University Choir who needing careful training/ instruction to help them produce a healthier and more free vocal sound.
I highly suggest for adolescent vocalists to take lessons (hopefully from a voice teacher who truly understands the changing voice for both girls and boys), sing in advanced choral ensembles (Appalachian Children's Chorus), participate in musicals, and sing pop music of various artists/ join a show choir, BUT not just do one. As a trumpet player growing up, I played in youth symphonies, jazz ensembles, solos (ie. concertos), and latin music. Too often,I small child sings amazingly well, but sounds like twice their age. They will have vocal health issues down the road, especially if they sing a deal to go sing anywhere and everywhere. Their voice will give out.
Again, be wary of anyone or company wh offers the "easy button". It takes a life long dedication to living, breathing, and expanding upon your skills for a CHANCE to make it.
