Jump to content

Grammy Winner Ken Tamplin Here. Bel Canto IS the only Technique

Rate this topic


kentamplin

Recommended Posts

Now, back to Dr. David Kyle. (Robert I think you said there was a forum starting on here somewhere?)

Back around 1982 I was the lead singer for a rock band called Joshua. (Joshua was the leader of the band).

Joshua was fixated on VERY high singing. So all the Joshua songs were ALL in the Steve Perry, Micky Thomas range. (btw, we went through over 40 memeber changes most of which were singers in the 4 1/2 years I was in the band so that oughtta tell you something).

I had a very similar range to my cousin Sammy Hagar. An Ab to a B was all I could squeeze out (and that was on a good night).

I cannot tell you how many "well known" vocal coaches I went to and NONE of them really helped me (if I told you the names I would REALLY piss people off).

You see, what I needed was an octave on my voice, MUCH greater longevity and constistancy.

It wasn't until I ran into Ron Anderson and learned Bel Canto (I went to school later to get my degree) that I fully understood how I needed to sing. Ron COULD ACTUALLY SING AND PHYSICALLY SHOW ME. No other vocal coaches could really do that. (btw, I was shocked to find out how many coaches taught Bel Canto and they really didn't understand the true mechanics of what this kind of VERY intense high energy, high range singing required. If I was singing jazz or easy pop none of this would have really mattered, but the truth is, this kind of high rock singing was gnarly and in the words of Robert, you DO become a vocal athlete.

Guys, I'm not here to tell you how bitchen I am, if you guys think that I'll just move on, that is silly and pedantic (and really loserville).

I just know what I know from my experince. If it can help, cool. If not, no worries.

But the proof of the technique IS IN THE PUDDING. (chekc out what this technique has done for me. Watch my videos or listen to music I have posted)

WEll, guess what, I did gain an entire octave on my voice. Most of my favorite singers (and friends) that sing this style have completely lost their voice like David Coverdale, Lou Gramm, Ian Gillan, Steve Walsh, Steve Perry and the list goes on and on.

However, at age 45, my voice has never been better.

Now back to Dr. Kyle.

At one point in my attempt to sing 5 nights a week, these rediculously high songs in Joshua, I thought I had developed serious chord issues.

Ron recommended I go see David as he thought I might need surgery.

After a couple of sessions with David, he convinced me not to get the surgery and sent me to some (really creepy almost witch doctery kind of guy) to determine the best approach to help me.

I told David I didn't think I would ever be able to sing those hig songs and he smiled and said something I'll never forget. He said "the deeper the roots, the taller the trees" and assured me I would be able to. He said it was really about "managing a "big voice" as opposed to a smaller instrument. After about 6 months of sessions of reconstructing and rebuilding my mid voice (along with working with Ron Anderson) it all became clear about connecting chest with head (very lightly) until one could "build up" "athlete power (if you will) through the mid section (a lot of which was also be reducing the amount of air used and "trusting" the sound).

Sorry for the long winded post, I hope this can be of help to you guys.

Good luck to all of you.

-Ken Tamplin

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Oh yeah,

Like I said, I'm here to help if I can. I just posted some cool industry leads on the main blog forum for anyone looking to place their music in film and TV.

I will post more as well when they come up.

Here they are again...

-KT

'Hard Breakers' (Indie Feature) {Romantic Comedy - 2 beach girls 'hunt' men w/surfboards to find love w/Cameron Richardson, Sophie Monk, cameos by Tom arnold, Tia Carrere, etc.} Need End-Title song - Upbeat Female Pop, Rock, or Reggae w/lyrics about 'friendship,' 'Fun,' 'Good-times' NOT a love song - Scene has girls toasting each other and dancing on the roof at sunset - MP3s OK to: undercovertracks@yahoo.com Send to:

Attn: Holly

Undercover Tracks

311 E. Glenarm St., #4.

Pasadena, CA 91106

www.undercovertracks.com

use email please

undercovertracks@yahoo.com

CD's PREFERRED PLEASE

'Hard Wired' (Indie Feature) {Sci-Fi Action film set in near future when corporations control the world and a group of freedom fighters rebel w/Cuba Gooding,Jr., Val Kilmer, etc.} Future sounding Rock about rebellion, freedom, creating a new world, etc. - MP3s OK. Send to:

Ruben Liber

Motion Picture Corp. Of America

10635 Santa Monica Blvd., #180

L.A., CA 90025

www.mpcafilm.com

(310) 319-9500 FAX: (310) 319-9501

rliber@mpcafilm.com

COMMERCIALLY RELEASED CD's ONLY PLEASE

NO MATERIAL RETURNED

'Fancypants' (Indie Film) {Comedy - Professional wrestler who is afraid of conflict in his real life} 1. Ethereal Airy Rock; 2. Dramatic EMO - Especially with "tired" or "need" in the lyrics in either style - indie artists like Explosions In The Sky, Velvetron, Jon Brion - also open to; & 3. Playful, carnival music - MP3s OK. Send to:

Daniel Hanson

Humble Pie Films

2161 N. California Ave., #301

Chicago, IL 60647

(773) 489-5544

dan@humblepiefilms.com

CD's PREFERRED PLEASE

'Midgets vs Mascots' (Indie Film) {Comedy Mocumentary where they complete to split $10 million - Need music IMMEDIATELY to be ready for the Tribeca Film Festival in 3 weeks} 1. Fight Club- low dirty sexy Electronica or Hard Rock like Ted Nugent's "Stranglehold"; 2. Texas Bar Songs- mid-to-uptempo Southern Rock (not dark or break-up songs); 3. House Party scenes- Radio Pop or Rock singles; 4. Club scenes - Gay Club, needs fun 'diva' vocals w/minimal lyrics also Upscale Dallas Nightclub, classy club but minimal lyrics or instrumental; & 5. End Credit Song- Feel Good song like Spoon's "The Underdog":

'Sons Of Tucson' (Fox TV) {Pilot for series that takes place in Tucson, Arizona} Indie Alt. Rock or Alt. Country Rock - Especially local and regional bands in that area - CD's preferred or links OK but NO MP3's please. Send to:

Julie Glaze-Houlihan

Houlihan Film Music 2

3250 Dona Maria Dr.

Studio City, CA 91604

Use email please

houliwood@mac.com

CD's PREFERRED PLEASE

NO MATERIAL RETURNED

'Strings' (Indie Film) {Drama about a vulnerable musician who leaves his girlfriend and life on a false trail, and returns 8 years later with re-constructive surgery} Need primarily instrumental Alt. Rock like Massive Attack - Ambient Electronica with a strong beat - Minimal lyrics or drop lyric tracks if possible. Send to:

Ben Foster

Motion Films

906 E 5th St., #106

Austin, TX 78702

(512) 657-7632

fosterfilmproductions@gmail.com

CD's PREFERRED PLEASE

'A Little Bit Of Love' (Indie Film) {(Romantic Comedy) Caucasian male little person falls in love with normal sized black woman executive} Need Mainstream Pop and Pop-Urban crossover romance songs, all tempos Minimal budget - MP3's OK.

Send to:

Jeffrey Taylor

Taylor-Reid Ent.

6139 S. Harvard Blvd.

L.A., CA 90047

(310) 349-9557

trentertainment@sbcglobal.net

CD's PREFERRED PLEASE

FEATURE: "A GOOD OLD FASHIONED ORGY" (EndGame Entertainment, US): Directors: Alex Gregory ("King Of The Hill" - writer, "Frasier" - writer), Peter Huyck ("The Larry Sanders Show" - Co. Prod., "Three Strikes" - TVM-Exec.Prod.). Producer: James D. Stern ("I'm Not There", "Stage Beauty"-Exec. Prod., "River Queen"-Exec. Prod.). Featuring Jason Sudekis ("Saturday Night Live"-TVS, "30 Rock"-TVS, "The Rocker"), Leslie Bibb ("Crossing Jordan"-TVS, "Atlanta"-TVM, "Ironman"), Lake Bell ("Boston Legal"-TVS, "What Happens In Vegas", "Surface"-TVS), Lindsay Sloane ("The Stones"-TVS, "The TV Set", "Help Me Help You"-TVS), Will Forte ("Campus Ladies"-TVS, "Beerfest", "Clone High"-TVS), Michelle Borth ("Tell Me You Love Me"-TVS, "Trespassers", "Komodo vs Cobra"-TVM).

SYNOPSIS: Story about eight friends, all heading into their 30s and all on the verge of major life changes. One of their number (Jason Sudeikis) has to get real his father decides to sell the family vacation home in the Hamptons, thus terminating his tradition of throwing elaborate summer theme parties. Wanting to go out with a bang, he enlists his friends to throw one final party to celebrate their last Labor Day together in the Hamptons. What kind of party?- an orgy natch.

=====> SEEKING: Songs about sex (nothing too explicit) from record labels. Genres - Rock, Alt Rock tunes. CD's only by post. No emails, calls. Send CDs to:

John Houlihan

Houlihan Film Music 2

3250 Dona Maria Drive

Studio City, CA 91604 USA

VARIOUS PROJECTS (Direct Ad Music, US): We provide custom music for all music media applications: film trailers, feature films, tv series, theme songs, etc. Due to increasing demand we need to bring on more composer. Must be able to turn out professionally produced cues on a very short deadline. Currently seeking top-notch composers and music producers to join the team.

=====> SEEKING: Music providers who are versed in all genre's of popular music (or really good at some) as well as traditional composers (score, theme etc). We have various projects ongoing at any given time and are looking for solid honourable people to provide supplemental music as well as custom score. Go to our website and upload 2 samples of your best work to the dropbox. Also upload a simple text or Word document with the information on titles sent along and your contact details and any other information you feel is relevant (working history, credits etc). Visit Direct Ad Music:

http://www.directadmusic.com

MUSIC FOR TV WANTED (Deadly Dreams Music, US): Music placement company seeks instrumentals for placing and licensing on a non-exclusive license for sync to the top music channels.

=====> SEEKING: Rock, Pop, Hip Hop, Electronica, World Music for a variety of shows on a number of cable networks, primarily MTV & VH1. CD submissions by post. Unwanted product will be returned if suitable SAE enclosed. No MP3s, calls or faxes. Contact:

Grover Zinn

Deadly Dreams Music

PO Box 18151

Encino, CA 91316 USA

e-mail: dreams@deadlydreams.com

http://www.deadlydreams.com

ESPN SPORTS SHOWS (ESPN TV, US): ESPN is America's No.1 multinational multi-media sports entertainment company. Its ever growing production schedule NBA, NFL, College Football, College Basketball etc etc. Tons of music is always required. Looking for more music to use as sound beds. Just check out the channel to get an idea of the action music needed.

=====> SEEKING: Need more Alt. College Rock, Hip Hop, Rock Pop, Electronica. Must be contemporary record releases. Needs to have energy, be fast, action orientated. Only accepting commercially released music. CDs only from record labels or music publishers with acts signed/released by labels. No Demos or MP3's. 2 CDs max. per submission. Send your packages to:

Claude Mitchell

ESPN, ESPN Plaza

Bristol, CT 06010 USA

FEMALE ARTIST *Co-writers/producers*: Established producers and production teams, wanted to work with platinum-selling international female artist and songwriter. Style: Contemporary Pop, Alternative, Electro, R&B, Dance, Disco and Reggae, eg Kylie Minogue, Robyn etc. In Studio: March. Deadline: March. Prefer: MP3. Contact:

Natalie John

London. UK

e-mail: nataliejohn123@yahoo.co.uk

'Bigg Country' (Radiance) Country Rock Group - CDs preferred. Send to:

David Lowman

Radiance Records

5155 NE 25th Ave.

Ocala, FL 34479 www.radiancenashville.com

david.lowman@radiancenashville.com

(352) 266-6638

'Marshall Tucker Band' (Rainman) Southern Rock - CDs only please. Send to:

Greg Lewerke

Rainman Records

315 S. Beverly Drive, #407

Beverly Hills, CA 90212 www.rainmanrecords.com

info@rainmanrecords.com

(310) 277-3020 FAX: (310) 557-8421

NO MATERIAL RETURNED

'Aubriana' (IndaSoul/Fontana) Female Mainsteam Pop Radio Singles like Rihanna, Aguilera, Spears, Pussycat Dolls. Send to:

Marc Williams

Music Mind Records

10200 Mason Ave., #106

Chattsworth, CA 91311

(818) 233-1856

'Kevin Sharp' (Cupit Records) Uptempo Contemporary Country RADIO SINGLES - visit www.kevinsharp.com - For more on him;

'Michelle Cupit' (Cupit Records) Traditional Bluegrass - UPTEMPO only please; &

'David Russell' (Cupit Records) Uptempo 'Kick-Butt' Traditional Country - go to www.cupitrecords.com for submission policy - NO MP3's please. Send to:

Jerry Cupit

Cupit Records

P.O. Box 121904

Nashville, TN 37212 www.cupitmusic.com

(615) 731-0100 x11 FAX: (615) 731-3005

COACHOUSE MUSIC has been established since 1984 and is run by record producer, Michael Freeman. Michael produces around 8 albums a year and works mainly in the ROCK, POP, BLUES and ALT ROCK genres. He has 30 years experience and has been Grammy nominated. His albums have been released on Chrysalis/EMI and Blind Pig amongst others. Please submit on CD if possible but a myspace link will be visited.

Michael Freeman

COACHOUSE MUSIC

PO BOX 1308

Barrington, IL 60011

Tel +1 847 382 7631

coachouse1@aol.com

NOMA MUSIC is a well established and multi credited music licensing company and publisher that supplies songs and instrumental music to the North American motion picture and television industries.

They are seeking broadcast quality recordings from songwriters, bands, and record labels who own all rights to their music. Styles needed are SINGER SONGWRITER, CLASSIC sounding music and

original masters from the 1960s to the 1980s, INDIE ROCK and POP artists, URBAN music ala Black Eyed Peas, and INSTRUMENTALS suitable for motion picture trailers. Initial submissions are screened online, so we prefer links to web-sites emailed over. We'll contact those back whose material fits in with our production needs. ALL of NOMA arranged projects pay upfront fees for any usages. submissions@nomamusic.com www.nomamusic.com Jim Justice +1 805-498-4900 Los Angeles area.

OPTIMUM RECORDS, part of the Silverword Music Group, has been established for over ten years, and covers a range of genres of music from DANCE, HIP HOP, R&B, TECHNO, RETRO, MOR and ROCK. Artists include Tony Mortimer, Darren Day, Kara Tobin, The Hunnted, Kayla, Jekyll & Hyde ,and Michelle Thorne. MD, Kevin King says they have enjoyed 3 entries into the UK Top 75 singles chart in the last year! Tipped for success next year is We Are The Mighty! Kevin is always interested in songwriters who can supply broad based, well written ballads which have the potential to be adapted to

different styles for publishing deals and artists who can really deliver a professional performance and preferably great songs.

Kevin King

OPTIMUM RECORDS

16 Limetrees, Llangattock

Crickhowell, NP8 1LB UK

+44 (0)1873 810142

info@optimumrecords.com

www.optimumrecords.com

SONGS WANTED (Leopard Music): Now looking for new pop songs for 2009. Must be very commercial and especially keen to hear some uptempo songs for girl groups and boy bands. Anything from pop/r&b, pop/rock, mainstream pop, pop ballads and commercial dance. Please send no more than 4 songs on CD to address below. Send to:

Teresa Coultard

Leopard Music Publishing

P O Box 77

Liversedge

WF15 7WT UK

e-mail: info@leopardmusicgroup.com

http://www.leopardmusicgroup.com

http://www.myspace.com/leopardmusicpublishing

STEREO (EMI Netherlands): New 6 -piece band with a female singer created from RTL's "Rock Nation" TV talent search. First single went to the top in November, now looking for a second No. 1 smash and album tracks. Style: Pop-rock with an edge like previous single, uptempos or power ballads well. We prefer songs with female vocals. Think Foo Fighters or Evanessence, no bubblegum or kiddy-rock please. Songs with interesting twists or structures preferred. Deadline: ASAP. Prefer: MP3s, 2 songs maximum per e-mail.

http://www.stereomusic.nl

http://www.myspace.com/stereomusicnl

Contact for both:

Gijs Nieuwenhuis

AT Productions

Vondelstraat 1

2513 EN Den Haag

The Netherlands

Tel:+31 (0)70 345 44 74

Fax:+31 (0)70 345 10 34

email: gijs.nieuwenhuis@atproductions.com

http://www.atproductions.com

CRYSTAL GAYLE (label tba) *Strictly Publishers Only*: Established country singer, now 58, best known for a series of country-pop crossover hits in the late 1970s and early 1980s, including the Grammy Award-winning, "Don't It Make My Brown Eyes Blue." She accumulated 18 No. 1 country hits during the 1970s and 1980s. She is the sister of singer Loretta Lynn (who is 17 years her senior) and a distant cousin of singer Patty Loveless. Currently in the early stages of pre-production on her current album. In studio: within the next month or two. Style: Country-pop, and country-A/C crossover tracks of all tempos. All material submitted must be very radio friendly and have that classic Crystal Gayle vibe. Deadline: Early March. Prefer: CDs - MP3s - Links.

Mgr: Bill Gatzimos

Gayle Enterprises, Inc.

51 Music Square East

Nashville, TN 37203

Tel: 615-327-2651

Fax: 615-327-2657

e-mail: info@crystalgayle.com

http://www.crystalgayle.com

http://www.myspace.com/crystalgayleofficial

MALE ARTIST (major label): This teen pop solo artist had one of the Top songs of 2008 on Radio Disney and is recording his debut album. Has toured with the Jonas Brothers, Sean Kingston, Jesse McCartney, Corbin Bleu, Jordin Sparks, etc. Style: Pop/Rock, think Jonas Brothers, Miley Cyrus. Looking for clean lyrics yet still mature. No cheesy bubble gum pop. In studio: Early summer. Deadline: June 1st. Prefer: CD - MP3. Contact:

Jason Keller

P3 Entertainment

P.O. Box 692503

Orlando, FL 32819 USA

e-mail: jason@p3-entertainment.net

LIZA (B.A.D. Records): Looking for songs for upcoming production by female vocalist. Style: German language rock, pop tracks. Visit Myspace for samples.

A&R: Ralph M. Gorenflo

B.A.D. Records Germany

Hellstr. 2-4

D-35789 Weilmmuenster

Germany

e-mail: info@bad-records.de

http://www.bad-records.de

http://www.myspace.com/lizasuperstar

HELLO!SKYLINE (Austria): One of the most viewed Myspace bands in the Austrian music scene. Their songs "Posthumous" and the second release "Waste Your Time" entered the Myspace charts by storm. Now we are looking for songs for their first single and the upcoming album to be released this summer/autumn. Hit Producer Oliver deVille (Germany) has worked for Gloria Gaynor, 2 Unlimited, Kim Carnes, Villa & Gant vs. SAGA, Whigfield, etc. Style: Pop-Punk - Powerpop - Pop Songs, influenced by American bands like: Simple Plan, Blink 182, All Time Low, We The Kings, Every Avenue, Racings Kites, Forever The Sickest Kids and bands like that. It's important for us to create this high school, college charm for this young band, Preferr up= tempo songs, but we also looking for pop/punk ballads. Deadline: ASAP. Prefer: CD - MP3 - Links.

Producer Oliver deVille

Villa Productions

Bahnweg 12

29323 Wietze

Germany

Tel: +49 (0)178-6972977

e-mail: villaproductions@web.de

http://www.oliverdeville.com

http://www.villaproductions@web.de

http://www.myspace.com/helloskylineisthecutestband

FROM ABOVE (major label) *Established Publishers / Writers only*: Stunning-looking new UK girl group working on debut album for major release. Style: Pop, pop/dance, Euro/pop, up and mid-tempos. Listen to samples on site. High quality songs from established publishers & writers only please. Deadline: Ongoing. Prefer: MP3:

A&R: Jake McKim

Music World Entertainment

15 W. 34th St., 6th Floor

NY 10001 New York USA

e-mail: jakemp3@gmail.com

http://www.myspace.com/fromabovemusic

http://www.musicworldent.com

CARINA LIROLA (Favored Nations) *Urgent*: Stunning British female artist produced by Andy Lee who writes, "We have very nearly completed Carina's album, which Steve Vai is releasing in the USA on Favoured Nations. We have sourced most of the songs for the album from SongLink, it has been invaluable to us so big thanks. I'm now looking for 2 killer pop hit singles. High quality tracks only please, no fillers. Style: Pop like Kelly Clarkson 'My Life Sucks Without You' and The Veronicas 'Untouched', also Pink, Katie Perry etc - Max Martin /Cheiron type quality. Deadline: ASAP. Prefer: MP3s - Links.

Contact:

Andy Lee

LTI Records, UK

Tel: +44 (0)7768 397868

e-mail: andylee@loolaa.com

http://www.carinalirola.com

Link to comment
Share on other sites

I WANNA ROCK!!!

Love the professionalism here folks....it is great to see, know and watch warranted debate over methods and techniques...we all have to agree, vocal techniques are a debatable subject, and who better to have the debate then the greatest Subject Matter Experts in the industry who have found a home away from home here at TMV!!

I'm learning a ton here...

Best Regards,

Hasson Chopper

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Wow Ken, buddy, you stirred some blood in the water!

Hey, I admire your work big time, and your voice, but I have to say, my students and recording clients are extremely happy. My method, "Power, Path & Performance" is not like anyone's (though of course it contains elements from every "true" method because it works) and I can take a student from zero to a hit career. I can also take someone with damaged cords and three weeks later the docs can see a physical difference in healing. Not a brag... a fact. I'm not the only one here who has done it of course, and my plan is to learn from everyone who has... including you.

I also have hit records as background vocalist, artist and songwriter... and as producer have some serious creds too. That doesn't make me a good voice teacher. I actually upped several people here's reps with some of the very wise and true points made here in this thread.

I don't mind blood in the water. But I do love the fact that we all can talk to each other. True community values all contributions. I know about the teachers you are siting... but I have a saying about vocal training: "whatever works". May we continue to explore in all arenas.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Thanks for your post Judy it is appreciated.

Like I said, it's just my opinion.

Not trying to make people angry with me, but I felt it my moral responsibility to share what my personal experience has been.

And it's not that I want to come off like I think I'm and arrogant jerk know-it-all. It's not about that at all.

My place was coming more from the standpoint that I have tried a zillion things and Bel Canto (with a few of my own tweaks) has been the only thing that has worked for me. Again, my opinion.

In addition, my experience has been that virtually all of the coaches I have worked with have made it so complicated (and yes, there is a LOT to it) but they have made it so complicated that it has become difficult to grasp quickly for folks who just need the nuts and botls.

I have paired this down to bare bones essentials to get people there quickly, and then tweak and fine tune the rest over time.

That's all.

-Ken

Link to comment
Share on other sites

OK, since I opened my big mouth, I might as well finish myself off (lol). :-)

I'm one of these guys that grades things on what I personally like to hear. (Or who I want to sound like).

Yes I can take guitar lessons from very credible guitar teachers, but if I want to sound Like Eddie Van Halen

a) I either take lessons from Eddie

B) I take lessons from someone who plays just like Eddie

c) I play the record over and over until my fingers bleed and by osmosis, hopefully I'll get close to some of his technique and licks (this was similar to my post about Pavarotti and "his" inspiriation doing the same thing).

This is true for singers. If I want to sound like Aretha Franklin, or Paul Rogers etc.

a) I take lessons from Aretha

B) I take lessons from someone who sounds just like Aretha or can show me by demostration how I can get there

c) I try to immitate her vocal style by playing the record over and over again until I am hoarse.

Now comes the technical side for good vocal health.

Because of the nature for the "heavy" style of singing I have been known for, there's no way in hell you can make a mistake without hurting yourself and if not done correctly, not only will the voice not grow, you will hurt yourself maybe even to the point of surgery. (Like I said in my previous post, if I was singing easy jazz or pop this wouldn't necessarily be the case...at least not to the same demanding degree).

With that said, I found that (in my opinion, let's call it "over achievement of stamina") once I figured out how to accomplish this, it made my soul, R & B / blues and pop stuff soooooo much easier.

It's what I believe.

For anyone that wants hard samples of this, I have posted over 40 songs on my page.

Feel free to hear me destroy Honkey Tonk Woman with a Paul Rogers vibe, or Fooled Around And Fell In Love (Micky Thomas) or, Never Been To Spain or even the Elvis piece I posted Can't Help Falling In Love.

It will demonstrate very different styles (including the CCR stuff I posted as well), and how the technique applies to this.

I will post some accapella jazz stuff (Take 6 meets Manhatten Transfer stuff as well).

It might at least give you a "one eyebrow raise". :-)

Be well,

-Ken

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Ken, Having been a guitar teacher myself for many years, I was about to post an analogy very similar to your Van Halen example earlier but you beat me to it.

People come to me for lessons because they want to learn to play in a style that they have heard me play quickly, without learning all the theory and technique that will just baffle them. To most purists, my technique sucks. I hold the neck with my thumb hanging over, which is a no no to most teachers (I use it as an extra finger, as did Hendrix, Van Halen, SRV, Knopfler, Gilmour.... most of the great feel players actually) and don't know the notes of the entire fretboard cold (eg same players again) but my EAR, not my technical knowledge leads me to the notes that pull people in.

I know a lot of guitar teachers in my area who know all the theory but when it comes down to it, they totally suck on the ol gee-tar. Sure they can play Dream Theatre licks etc but can't play a simple campfire type strum along songs with any conviction.

I've had many of them play in cover bands I was in, replacing me when I've gone off to do other things.

I'm always surprised when I rejoin those bands and they tell me that the other guys guys couldn't play the intro to a really easy song without going out of time or finding their groove. I'm talking about simple rhythm guitar intro's (Shimmer by Fuel is an example).

If only they had of sat around playing songs, not practicing scales, they would be a much more rounded player.

When people bring me up as being one of the better rock players in the area, they don't get it. "But he has no technique, doesn't know any theory and can't play shred" they say, but I do know the nuts and bolts of theory, the vital stuff that matters. To the average joe, I shred. I'm not out to impress the 1% of listener who can recite the tonal relationship of every mode. I get off on people saying "Wow, you're one of the best guitar players I've ever seen, you have so much FEEL.... and you shred" :)

What am I trying to say here? I'm saying that it absolutely comes down to the nuts and bolts like you said Ken. The common person out there doesn't give a damn how high you can sing, in fact most of the examples online of vocal coaching gets laughed at by my friends and music colleagues when I show them. They think it's an outtake from a Jack Black movie or say they'd rather hear me sing they way I do now than sound like that.

Ken, I watched your youtube videos and read your blog posts again as I was waiting to be picked up for a gig yesterday and tried some of your tips without getting to practice them in my own time.

Guess what buddy, it worked for me! After trying to digest all this mumbo jumbo about epiglotic sphincters, tilting cartlidges and other medical anatomy class talk, simply thinking about talking to someone while taking a hit on a joint did wonders for me immediately.

Your examples of vowel modification blew me away too, as did the emphasis on the open throat.

After practicing along with cd after cd of Brett Manning's Singing Success, when he finally gets to vowel modification, I couldn't get, or give a toss about what he was talking about.

I'm in between jobs right now and need to move house when I start work with my new employer at the end of the month so I can't afford to buy your course right now but will as soon as I've got some money to play with.

Please, please, please, keep sharing the stuff that matters in simple to understand language to people like myself who have struggled for so long.

You are helping me overcome the frustration I have of not being able to play my own built in instrument as well as I can play most other instruments, and for that, I thank you.

Rick

Link to comment
Share on other sites

After trying to digest all this mumbo jumbo about epiglotic sphincters, tilting cartlidges and other medical anatomy class talk, simply thinking about talking to someone while taking a hit on a joint did wonders for me immediately.

That sounds pretty interesting. :) Was that in one of Ken's videos? If so, which one?

Link to comment
Share on other sites

After trying to digest all this mumbo jumbo about epiglotic sphincters, tilting cartlidges and other medical anatomy class talk, simply thinking about talking to someone while taking a hit on a joint did wonders for me immediately.

Rick, if you need simple and very clear explanation of almost all vocal techniques you should check the CVT. They have more than 400 examples in their vocal library. There you can find simple run-through of CVT http://www.completevocalinstitute.com/node/47. For me the CVT book is not a singing course but the treasure house of knowledge about singing. :) All in very simple language, even if they write about the anatomy ...;) They use completely different nomenclature without this confusing (for me) term like head-, chest- or mix- registers.... When I heard about CVT first time I was rather skeptical but now it looks like it is the best explanation of singing, for me of course. :)

Br,

Robert

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Thanks guys for not hating on me.

I get myself in trouble sometimes for not being "diplomatic" enough. ( turrets syndrome I guess :-)

I meant what I said when I said, It's not about me "having to be right" it's about sharing what I personally have experienced and what I have seen work. (I didn't come on here to sell you the Ken Tamplin method. I came on here talking about old Bel Canto when taught correctly).

Prickstein, I too use my thumb when playing guitar (partly because I was one of the goofs when learning how to play songs like Deep Purple Burn that that was the only way to get that Ritchie Blackmore Man On A Silver Mountain chunk. I was one of those blistering fast technical guitarists in the 80's only to come full circle and really learn the blues.

One of the things I would like to make perfectly clear hear is this. There are a LOT of great coaches out there (and obviously on this forum).

But getting back to guitar. Most folks "that only sing" and don't play an instrument, haven't a clue the kind of discipline it takes to be a great instrumentalist.

Most of them (and we all know who they are) barley show up with a freakin' microphone (if that) while we all schlep our marshal stacks and drums and bass rigs etc. (and btw, have you ever seen one help tear the gear down? ha ha).

I come from a practice my freakin ass off w/my giutar 8 hours a day for years and years because it was the only way I could learn Yngwie a Satch licks.

Now let's translate this to the voice. How many vocalists do you know that even pracice voice for 2 hours a day, every day, 6 days per week?

Well let me tell you something, this is where the term "athelete" comes into play and you'd better have killer technique or YOU WILL hurt yourself. If you do have good technique and are willing to put in the time like any great instrumentalist, YOU WON'T BELIEVE how strong the voice will get and the range you will have. That smoky whisky killer tone, scary good pitch and stamina where NO ONE could compete with you.

Luciano and Placido would train between 5-7 hours per day. They didn't get that good by 3 hours a week.

It's true folks can benefit even by way of just doing a few scales with little or no instruction, but I am not talking about that kind of singing.

OK, here's my infomercial disclaimer: "The statements made here are only the opinions of Ken Tamplin and are not endores by the faculty of the TMV Forum. :-)

With Luv,

KT & The Sunshine Band

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Hey Rick (prickstein)

If you wanna check out some of the swamp voodoo cajun back porch licks, you might get a kick out of my version of "Who Do You LOve" on my player here on the site. It take a minute to come up for some reason 9I think because I have a lot of songs posted. You might like like the old Three Dog Night tune Never Been To Spain as well :-)

-KT

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Hi Ken......You sure stirred things here! Judy and I have similar ways I think of teaching and we all have something new to offer and yes for me the build up for any voice is handling the "natural mid range" from there you can build range extensions either way. I believe you can only hit what you can hear in your head. If you can't hear it first then you can't sing it. There is a natural cut off point either end! However the trick is understanding what you hear and how to reproduce it safely! That's where the coach comes in and makes the difference! Paul Young too wrecked his voice singing in the wrong keys for his top chart years, I heard him live not long after he discovered this and he was useless in any range. Sad but true! You should join the Bel Canto group on the main site! There is a great video there! love Hilary :cool:

Link to comment
Share on other sites

FOLKS, WE ALL SEEM TO HAVE A PARTICULAR VIEWPOINT(S) AND BELIEF(S) WE APPLY TO OUR SINGING. I JUST LIKE THAT WE ALL CAN LEARN FROM EACH OTHER. KEN PLACED HIMSELF IN A VERY VULNERABLE POSITION TO TALK ABOUT HIS PARTICULAR SET OF BELIEFS, AND I RESPECT HIM FOR THAT. I WAS DISSECTING A SMALL PIECE OF LOU GRAMM'S VOCALS AD NAUSEUM PERHAPS.....HEY, LET'S ALL HAVE FUN AND NOT TAKE THIS SO SERIOUSLY......BOB (VIDEOHERE)

Link to comment
Share on other sites

If you wanna check out some of the swamp voodoo cajun back porch licks, you might get a kick out of my version of "Who Do You LOve" on my player here on the site.

-KT

Now that's what I'm talkin' about brother.

Some mofo's have just got it ;)

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Hey gang, if you're interested, I just posted (waiting for approval) a VERY extensive list of killer Cruise Ship Gigs.

This is a VERY comprehensive list and includes DIRECT contact info for the cruise lines so you don;t have to get hacked for 50% of your money by an agent.

Tell all your firneds you saw it here on TMV, the largest intersection of singers on the planet :-)

-Ken

OK, so here's the deal:

If your attention span is 3 seconds...QUICKLY click on to something else you feel is worthy :-)

If you want info that has cost me thousand upon thousand of dollars, and acquire it FOR FREE, read the info below:

I have researched the most comprehensive list on the planet for Cruise Ship Employment.

I spent a bunch of $$$ and had 3 people on my staff come up with a VERY comprehensive list of the coolest cruise ships gigs IN THE WORLD.

I am not only going to give the info, but I am going to tell you something else.

There are a TON of broker/talent bookers that WILL TAKE about 50% of ALL YOUR MONEY IF YOU GO WITH THEM.

My team has bypassed them altogether and gone straight to the source.

WHAT DO I WANT OUT OF THIS?

I want you to tell you all your singing friends that you got this info on the coolest intersection of vocalists on the planet called www.themodernvocalists.com and invite them to join. We ALL neeed to help each other to make it in this biz.

Here are the leads”

(PLEASE MAKE CERTAIN YOU PRESENT YOUSELF IN THE MOST PROFESSIONAL WAY TO GET THE MOST $$$ AND NEGOTIATE THE BEST DEALS/POSITION YOU CAN. :-)

Entertainment Department

Guest Entertainers, males and females (a complete and strong 40-50 minutes self-contained show catering to a wide diversity of ages required). Salary range: $4000-18000 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line and negotiation..

Lounge Performers, males and females (entertain in certain locations on board - piano bar, night club etc. providing their own music and materials) - solid experience and ability to play a wide diversity of musical styles required. Fluent English Language skills required. Salary range: $2500-4800 U.S. per month.

Dancers, Singers, males and females (main production shows, cabarets) - extensive experience in production shows required. Salary range: $1600-2900 U.S. per month (cast members to lead performers), depending on the cruise line.

Musicians:

Show band, males and females - extensive professional experience required, excellent sight reading. Salary range: $1700-2700 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line.

Please send an audio tape, detailed resume and a photo.

Lounge groups, males and females (2 to 6 piece bands) - experience required. Fair English Language skills required. Salary range: $1700-2400 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Please send an audio tape, detailed resume and a photo.

Production Manager, males and females (responsible for running the production shows and managing the technical staff) - extensive technical and practical education and /or hands-on experience required. Salary range: $2200-3100 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line.

Assistant Production Manager, males and females (assisting in running the production shows and any activities that require technical assistance) - extensive technical and practical education and /or hands-on experience required. Salary range: $1700-2600 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Possibilities for promotion to Production Manager.

Sound & Light Technicians, mostly males (assisting in running the production shows and any activities that require technical assistance) - technical and practical education and /or hands-on experience required. Salary range: $1600-1900 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Possibilities for promotion to Assistant Production Manager.

Cruise Staff, males and females (organizing passengers activities-golf, quizzes, bingo etc.) - some experience preferred. Fluent English Language skills required. Salary range: $1800-2100 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line. Possibilities for promotion to Assistant Cruise Director.

Disc Jockey, males mostly (should have a diverse music foundation to span the generations of the passengers) - hotel, resort or night club experience preferred. Fluent English Language skills required. Salary range: $1700-2000 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line.

Fitness Instructors, males and females (passengers exercise activities, sports) - experience required. Fluent English Language skills required. Salary range: $1800-2200 U.S. per month, depending on the cruise line.

Youth Activities Coordinators, females and males (organizing children's activities) - some experience with children preferred. Fluent English Language skills required. Salary range: $1800-2100 U.S. per month depending on the cruise line

Cruise Lines Entertainment Contacts

Send a cover letter, resume and promotional package to the cruise lines contacts listed below.

Carnival Cruise Line

This cruise line hires:

Show Room Entertainers -

(Vocalists, Dancers, Magicians, Jugglers, Comediants, Variety Entertainers)

Dancers

Show Band Musicians -

Piano, Bass, Drums, Sax/Reeds, Trumpet, Trombone

Lounge Bands - Duos up to four-piece

Piano Bar Pianists/Vocalists

Piano Bar Pianists

Calypso Bands

String Quartets

Any promotional material may be sent to the following address:

Carnival Cruise Lines

3655 NW 87th Avenue

MSOP 304-N

Miami, Florida 33178-2428

Or you may e-mail any of the following addresses for more information. Be sure to include your position of interest in the subject line.

Backstage Sound & Light Technician - Shiptechs@carnival.com

Disc Jockey, Social Host - Shipcruisestaff@carnival.com

Dancer, Production Vocalist - Shipdancers@carnival.com

Lounge Bands, One Man Band, Piano Bar Entertainer - shiploungemusic@carnival.com

Showband Musician - shipshowband@carnival.com

Headline Entertainer - shipentertainers@carnival.com

Celebrity Cruises

This cruise line hires:

Show Room Entertainers -

Vocalists, Dancers, Magicians, Jugglers, Comediants, Variety Entertainers

Show Band Musicians -

Piano, Bass, Drums, Guitar, Sax/Reeds, Trumpet, Trombone

Lounge Bands - Duos up to four-piece

Dance Bands

Piano Bar Pianists/Vocalists

Piano Bar Pianists

Caribbean Bands

String Quartets

Audio-Visual Personnel

Disc Jockeys

Please, contact:

Entertainment Director

Celebrity Cruises

5200 Blue Lagoon Drive,

Miami, FL 33126, U.S.A.

Tel. 1-800-242-6374

website: www.celebrity-cruises.com

Musicians can also contact ProShip Entertainment (an exclusive agent for Celebrity Cruises):

ProShip Entertainment

5253 Decarie Blvd, Suite 308

Montreal, PQ, Canada, H3W 3C2

Tel. 1-888-477-6744, 514/485-8823

Fax: 514/485-2675

E-mail: info@proship.com

Website: www.proship.com

Costa Cruise Line

This cruise line hires:

Show Room Entertainers -

Vocalists, Dancers, Magicians, Jugglers, Comediants, Variety Entertainers

Show Band Musicians -

Piano, Bass, Drums, Sax/Reeds, Trumpet, Trombone

Lounge Bands - Duos up to four-piece

Dance Bands

Piano Bar Pianists/Vocalists

Piano Bar Pianists

Caribbean Bands

Audio-Visual Personnel

Disc Jockeys

Please, contact:

Mr. Brian Lunsford

Entertainment Manager

200 South Park Road, Suite 200

Hollywood, FL 33021, U.S.A.

Tel. 305/377-4510; 305/358-1613; fax 305/375-0676

website: www.costacruises.com

Job Hotline: (954) 266-5645

Crystal Cruises

This cruise line hires:

Show Room Entertainers -

Vocalists, Dancers, Magicians, Jugglers, Comediants, Variety Entertainers

Show Band Musicians -

Piano, Bass, Drums, Sax/Reeds, Trumpet, Trombone

Lounge Bands - Duos up to four-piece

Dance Bands

Piano Bar Pianists/Vocalists

Piano Bar Pianists

Caribbean Bands

Audio-Visual Personnel

Disc Jockeys

The entertainment department caters to the most discerning traveler with extensive onboard programs second to none. For shipboard contracts within specific entertainment divisions, please forward your resume as outlined:

Destination Lecturer, Special Interest Lecturer, Golf Instructor, Keyboard Instructor, Yoga Instructor, Specialty Entertainer, Specialty Performance Group/Cabaret Acts, Solo Entertainer/Solo Artist, Disc Jockey

Crystal Cruises

Attn: Kristin Turner - Manager Entertainment

2049 Century Park East, Suite 1400

Los Angeles, CA 90067

Please submit a letter, resume and prospectus; stage acts should also include a VHS/DVD of a LIVE performance and a promotional photograph.

Ambassador Host/Dance Host

Crystal Cruises

Attn: Sheila Hoffman - Ambassador Host Program

2049 Century Park East, Suite 1400

Los Angeles, CA 90067

Please submit a letter, resume, headshot photograph and VHS/DVD of dance work being performed within a professional dance studio.

Sound and Light Director, Audio-Technical Staff

Crystal Cruises

Attn: Michael Moeller - Corporate Technical Entertainment Director

2049 Century Park East, Suite 1400

Los Angeles, CA 90067

Please submit a letter, resume and headshot photograph.

Orchestra Musicians

ProShip Entertainment

Attn: Martin Archambeault

5253 Decarie Blvd #308

Montreal Quebec, Canada H3W3C2

marchambeault@proship.com

Please submit a letter, resume, audio tape/CD and headshot photograph.

Ensemble Lead Vocalist, Ensemble Dancer, Ensemble Singer-Dancers

Crystal Cruises' lavish, Broadway-style productions have received numerous accolades and coveted industry awards. While we do hold live auditions periodically (advertising in trade publications with our tour cities and dates), we welcome submissions via the post throughout the year.

CRYSTAL CRUISES, Attn: Artistic Directors

2049 Century Park East, Ste. 1400

Los Angeles, CA 90067

Please submit a letter, resume and headshot photograph; packets are reviewed upon receipt and, should a suitable position be available, you will be contacted for a live audition; ensure that current telephone numbers and addresses are printed on each piece of material you submit.

Talent 21 years of age and older is welcome to submit promotional materials. Submissions must be mailed and not e-mailed; submissions sent via e-mail will not be reviewed.

Following is a detailed outline of criteria and benefits for ensemble vocalists and dancers.

Female Dancers and Male Dancers and Male Dancer-Singers

Video tapes should highlight strong ballet technique, along with jazz and tap. We also look for adagio and acrobatic experience. Female dancers are needed 5'6"-5'9"; male dancers and male dancer-singers are needed 5'9"-6'2".

Male Dancer-Singers should include in their tapes two musical selections: one up-tempo and one ballad.

Lead Female Vocalist

We are looking for females 5'6"-5'9" in height, with dress sizes of 4-10. You must have dance ability for set choreography.

Legit Soprano range: E-3 to F-4; Belt range: A-2 to C-4.

Age Range: 23-40

Please submit a video tape showcasing the stated registers, along with a traditional musical theatre (or opera) piece in your head voice and a big Broadway-style belt. We also need to see movement on your video.

Lead Male Vocalist

We are looking for males 5'10"-6'4", with Jacket sizes 40R-42L.

You must have movement ability for set choreography.

Tenor and Baritone range: F-1 to C-3; occasional G-3.

Age Range: 25-40

Please submit a video tape showcasing a big Baritone voice. We are looking for legitimate musical theatre voices that are able to sing several styles of music, including Opera, musical theatre, '40s Jazz, and '50s Rock and Roll. Please submit a big ballad and an up-tempo. We also need to see movement on your video.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT PERFORMING WITH PRODUCTION TEAMS:

Please e-mail at Production@crystalcruises.com

Cunard Line

This cruise line hires:

Show Room Entertainers -

Vocalists, Dancers, Magicians, Jugglers, Comediants, Variety Entertainers

Show Band Musicians -

Piano, Bass, Drums, Guitar, Sax/Reeds, Trumpet, Trombone

Lounge Bands - Duos up to four-piece

Dance Bands

Piano Bar Pianists/Vocalists

Piano Bar Pianists

Caribbean Bands

String Quartets

Production Personnel

Disc Jockeys

Please, contact:

Mr. Garry Brown

Garry Brown Associates, Ltd.

27 Downs Side

Cheam, Surrey, England SM2 7EH

Tel. 081/643-3991; 081/643-8375

Fax 081/770-7241

You could also try to contact:

Entertainment Coordinator

Cunard Line Ltd.

555 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 1001, U.S.A.

Employment Hot Line: 212/880-7423

Website: www.cunardline.com

Apply online: http://www.cunard.com/hr/shipboard.asp

Disney Cruise Line

Entertainment Technicians

Musicians, Performers

If you are interested in becoming a mainstage or character performer, please contact the Entertainment Audition Hotline at (407) 397-3299 or go to www.disneycareers.com

(Events and Auditions).

Please, contact

Director of /Entertainment

Disney Cruise Line

PO Box 10,210

Lake Buena Vista, FL 32880, U.S.A.

Tel. 407/566-7000, 407/566-3500; fax 407/939-3750

Website: http://dcljobs.com/

Job Hotline: (+1) 407/566-SHIP

MUSICIANS

Bands & piano players only, please contact:

Hire Notes

Robert Sigler

2200 South Pioneer Way

Las Vegas, NV 89117

United States

hirenotes@aol.com

Sound/Light Technicians, please contact:

The Agency

Marc Sorrentino

Suite 2

The Business Centre

120 West Heath Road

London NW3 7TU

England

Tel: +44 (0) 20 8 458 4212

Fax: +44 (0) 20 8 458 4572

www.excellententertainment.biz

Holland America Line

This cruise line hires:

Show Room Entertainers -

Vocalists, Dancers, Magicians, Jugglers, Comediants, Variety Entertainers

Show Band Musicians -

Piano, Bass, Drums, Guitar, Sax/Reeds, Trumpet, Trombone

Lounge Bands - Duos up to four-piece

Dance Bands

Piano Bar Pianists/Vocalists

Piano Bar Pianists

Caribbean Bands

String Quartets

Audio-Visual Personnel

Disc Jockeys

SINGERS - lead singers who move well.

SINGER/DANCERS - strong singers who also dance.

Holland America's production shows are produced and managed by Stiletto Entertainment.

Contact:

Stiletto Entertainment

P.O Box 45348

Los Angeles, CA 90045

310-957-5757

www.stilettoentertainment.com

Auditions are held throughout the year. Videotaped submissions, phone, fax and e-mail inquiries are also accepted.

PRODUCTION DANCERS

Holland America's production shows are produced and managed by Stiletto Entertainment.

Contact:

Stiletto Entertainment

P.O Box 45348

Los Angeles, CA 90045

310-957-5757

www.stilettoentertainment.com

Auditions are held throughout the year. Videotaped submissions, phone, fax and e-mail inquiries are also accepted.

GUEST ENTERTAINERS

Comedians

Jugglers

Instrumentalists

Magicians/Illusionists

Vocalists

Ventriloquists

or any other interesting performer (we do not contract mentalists or hypnotists)

for engagements as short as two days.

If you have at least one hour and fifteen minutes of family suitable material, please submit a videotape to:

Entertainment Manager - Talent

Holland America Line

300 Elliott Ave. W.

Seattle, WA 98119

If you would like your tape returned, enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope.

TECHICIANS

Stage Manager

Sound Technician

Lighting Technician

Rigging Technician

Lounge Technician

Broadcast Technician

Holland America's award winning vessels feature state-of-the-art sound, lighting, rigging and broadcast systems featuring equipment from VARI*LITE, Yamaha, Electronic Theater Controls, Leigtronics, and 360 Systems.

Please submit a videotape to:

Entertainment Manager - Talent

Holland America Line

300 Elliott Ave. W.

Seattle, WA 98119

SHOWBAND MUSICIANS

The showband has from 6 to 7 players and backs all the production shows and variety entertainers. You must be:

an excellent sight reader

knowledgeable in different musical styles

The following positions are available:

Piano/Music Director - manages the show band and all musicians on board. Conducts all shows. Must have excellent musical and leadership skills.

Keyboards/Piano - requires a good knowledge of modern synthesizers. Must be imaginative with patches to fill-in and make the band sound fuller. Some solo background work will also be assigned.

Drums - requires a variety of musical styles to include: theater, contemporary and dance music. Click track experience is a plus.

Bass Guitar - upright bass skills are a plus but not required.

Saxophone - able to double alto and tenor. Flute and clarinet a plus, but not required.

Guitar - electric and acoustic are required. Some solo background work will also be assigned.

Please send resume, video (preferred) or cd of live performance, and references to:

Entertainment Manager - Music

Holland America Line

300 Elliott Ave. West

Seattle, WA 98119

STRING ENSEMBLES

Three and four piece string ensembles . You must have a large repertoire of light classical, show tunes and some pop. Please send resume, video of live performance, a complete song list, and references to:

Entertainment Manager - Music

Holland America Line

300 Elliott Ave. West

Seattle, WA 98119

LOUNGE BANDS

High-quality and friendly duos, trios, and quartets to entertain the guests. Repertoire must include a wide variety of music ranging from easy listening cocktail music for dancing to high-energy contemporary favorites. Please send resume, video of live performance, a complete song list, and references to:

Entertainment Manager - Music

Holland America Line

300 Elliott Ave. West

Seattle, WA 98119

PIANISTS

High-energy and friendly piano entertainers with a wide musical range from the 50s through contemporary pop, and experience with sing-a-longs. The ability to read music is not a requirement, but all songs must be memorized. Please send resume, video of live performance, a complete song list, and references to:

Entertainment Manager - Music

Holland America Line

300 Elliott Ave. West

Seattle, WA 98119

Website: http://www.hollandamericaentertainment.com/

Hapag Lloyd Cruises

Please send:

- Introductory letter,

- Complete curriculum vitae,

- Photograph

- Full references (school and where applicable university qualification, practical courses and professional experience).

- Audio and/or video material for musicians

Culture and Events/Entertainment:

Hapag-Lloyd Kreuzfahrten

Uta Steinmetz

Ballindamm 25

20095 Hamburg

Tel: +49 40 3001-4667

Light und Sound:

Studio 22

Schauinslandstr. 22

76199 Karlsruhe

Stephan Weber

Tel: +49 721 98834-33

Fax: +49 721 98834-44

Lector, Scientist:

Hapag-Lloyd Kreuzfahrten

Doris Meißner

Ballindamm 25

20095 Hamburg

Tel: +49 40 3001-4712

Website: www.hlkf.de

Imperial Majesty Cruise Line

2950 Gateway Drive

Pompano Beach, Florida 33069

Ph.: 954-956-9505, 800-394-3865

Fax: 954-971-6678

E-mail: employment@imperialmajesty.com

Website: http://www.imperialmajesty.com/

Please, fill in the online application form:

http://www.imperialmajesty.com/Employment/Employ_Global.htm

Norwegian Cruise Line

This cruise line hires:

Show Room Entertainers -

Vocalists, Dancers, Magicians, Jugglers, Comediants, Variety Entertainers

Show Band Musicians -

Piano, Bass, Drums, Guitar, Sax/Reeds, Trumpet, Trombone

Lounge Bands - Duos up to six-piece

Dance Bands

Piano Bar Pianists/Vocalists

Piano Bar Pianists

Caribbean Bands

String Quartets

Audio-Visual Personnel

Disc Jockeys

Norwegian Cruise Line accepts resumes for a variety of entertainment venues from Comedy acts to guest lecturers. As a general rule, applications are accepted year-round.

Do not contact Ms. Carper if you're applying as a musician.

For employment opportunities, please send a resume and a demo tape to:

Sue Carper

NCL Corporate Office.

7665 NW 19 St.

Miami, FL 33126

Musicians, please send a resume, photo and a demo tape to:

Michael Suman

NCL Corporate Office.

7665 NW 19 St.

Miami, FL 33126

msuman@ncl.com

Show room entertainers, dancers, singers and production staff, please contact Jean Ann Ryan Productions:

Ms. Jean Ann Ryan

Producer, Jean Ann Ryan Productions

308 SE 14-th Street

Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316

Tel. 954/523-6399

Theater Techs -Joel Koves - Manager, Entertainment Technical- jkoves@ncl.com

website: www.ncl.com

OceaniaCruises

OCEANIACRUISES, INC.

8300 NW 33rd Street, Suite 308

Miami, Fla. 33122, U.S.A.

Please, fill in the online application form and attach your resume:

http://www.oceaniacruises.com/T_MainContentPage.aspx?PageUID=4159d94b-e914-4925-b856-eed087086e7e

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises

Fleet Personnel Department

24844 Avenue Rockefeller

Santa Clarita, CA 91355-4999

U.S.A.

Email: careersatsea@princesscruises.com

Website: http://employment.princess.com/employment/job_shipboard.html

Radisson Seven Seas Cruises

Please, contact:

Manager of Entertainment

Radisson Seven Seas Cruises

600 Corporate Drive, # 410, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33334, U.S.A.

Tel. 1-800-477-7500; 954/776-6123; fax 954/772-3763

Website: http://www.rssc.com

Royal Caribbean International

This cruise line hires:

Show Room Entertainers -

Vocalists, Dancers, Magicians, Jugglers, Comediants, Variety Entertainers

Show Band Musicians -

Piano, Bass, Drums, Guitar, Sax/Reeds, Trumpet, Trombone

Lounge Bands - Duos up to six-piece

Dance Bands

Piano Bar Pianists/Vocalists

Piano Bar Pianists

Caribbean Bands

String Quartets

Audio-Visual Personnel

Disc Jockeys

Please, contact:

Entertainment Manager

Royal Caribbean International

1050 Caribbean Way, Miami, FL 33132, U.S.A.

Tel. 305/539-3987, 1-800-224-6695; fax 305/371-7354

Musicians, please contact:

Mr. Robert Waterfield

Talent Acquisition Manager - address the same as above

Tel. 1-800-224-6695 ext.3908

website: www.royalcaribbean.com

Seabourn Cruise Line

Please, contact:

Director of Entertainmet

Shipboard Personnel

6100 Blue Lagoon Drive,

Miami, FL 33126, U.S.A.

Tel: (+1) 305-463-3000

Fleet Personnel Department

Mountbatten House, Grosvenor Square,

Southampton, U.K. SO15 2 BF

website: www.seabourn.com

Silversea Cruises

Please, contact:

Shipboard Employment

Silversea Cruises, Ltd.

24 Avenue De Fontvielle, P.O. Box 713

Monte Carlo 98013, Monaco

Tel. 33-92 05 11 99; Fax 33-92 05 11 69

website: www.silversea.com

Most of the entertainment is currently being booked by agent submissions

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Star Cruises

Please, contact:

Ms. Vivien Phang

Hotel Operations Department

Star Cruises

Port Klang, Malaysia

Tel. 6-03/301-1333; Fax 6-01/301 1222

website: www.starcruises.com

Sun Cruises (Airtours Group)

The Entertainment Department is responsible for recruiting all entertainment staff onboard, including Cruise Directors, Assistant Cruises Directors, Cruise Staff, Dancers and Musicians. They can be contacted at:

Martin LillySun Cruises4 Parkway Business Centre300 Princess RoadManchester, U.K.M14 7QUE-mail: martin.lilly@suncruises.co.ukTel: +44 (0)161 232 2800Website: www.suncruises.co.uk

Windstar Cruises

Musicians, please contact:

Mr. Jerry Quesada

Music Department Manager

300 Elliot Avenue West, Seattle, WA 98119, U.S.A.

206/281-3535 ext.3499

Entertainment Job Line: 206 286 3499

Everybody else send a promo package to the Entertainment Department Manager at the above mentioned address.

website: www.windstarcruises.com

How to write your resume and cover letter

These tips will help you in preparing a professional and dynamic resume. Remember, the resume is your first step in obtaining your dream job.

1. Your resume should be neatly typewritten.

2. It should be written in English.

3. Check for any typing or grammatical mistakes.

4. Be sure to have your correct and current address, do include your postal/zip code - your phone number and area code should be included, along with an alternate number for messages.

5. Your resume should not be more than 2 - 3 pages, the most important information should be listed on the first page.

6. List your academic background, beginning with your highest credentials, awards and recognitions should be stated.

7. List your employment history in reverse chronological order ( beginning with your latest position ), include the name of the company, job title, dates and your main responsibilities. Promotions and achievements should also be noted.

8. Do include volunteer work that you have done. Many hidden skills and talents can be found here. briefly list your office and computer skills.

9. Briefly state other relevant courses you have taken.

10. Specify any talents or skills.

11. On the first page, list the languages you speak and write fluently.

12. You should be able to provide 3 - 4 business references. They will be contacted with your permission.

13. Always send a cover letter with your resume, highlighting the skills that are relevant to the job you are applying for.

14. Attach a recent photograph to your cover letter and resume.

15. Address the cover letter to the recruiting agent you are applying to.

16. Ensure you proofread and sign your cover letter.

17. Do not lie or stretch the truth on your resume, as you will be asked to provide proof during the interview.

To review a sample of cover letter format, please Click Here

On most cruise ships you get paid twice a month by check. Depending on your position and the cruise line you will have either 100% fixed salary (a paycheck only) or you would have fixed amount paid by the cruise line plus gratuities (tips) from passengers and/or commission (percentage of sales). Certain shipboard positions are heavily dependent on gratuities (waiters, cabin stewards), other positions are dependent on commission (gift shop, photo shop), others like beauty salon - on both gratuities and commission. Certain cruise lines have "no tipping" policies (Seabourn Cruises, Crystal Cruises) and all of their staff and crew is paid by the company. In any case you will get a pay check from the cruise line at least for the part of your total earnings. Since most of the major cruise lines are based in the U.S.A., the wages are paid in U.S. dollars, regardless of the location of the ship and nationality of crew/staff members.

Once you receive the pay check, you will have the option to cash it in the crew office onboard. The good side of cashing the pay check onboard the ship is that you will have pocket money for the various ports (shopping, sightseeing) and for personal expenses onboard (drinks in the crew bar, cigarettes for smokers). The bad side is that you would have to keep somewhere all this cash (unless you spend it all, but presumably you do this job in order to save money). One solution is to keep your money in a sealed envelope in the safe in the crew office. This service is offered on all ships and does not cost anything. The other solution is to keep all your pay checks until your contract is over and cash them at the crew office just before you leave the ship or at your bank when you get back home. That will cost you the inconvenience of not having pocket money in your hand, but if you have a bank account in the U.S.A. you could write checks for a small amounts and cash them at the crew office when in need of pocket money. You could also have your pay check directly deposited to your bank account, which is perhaps the best option, because you would have the money in your bank account three-four days before you receive the check onboard the ship and keep in mind that sometimes when the ship is in a remote port pay checks could be late (in extreme cases up to one week).

Another great service cruise lines are offering to crew/staff members is wiring money from the ship to any bank account in the world. The cost is $20 U.S. regardless of the amount transferred and the location of your bank.

Paying your bills back home while on the ship

The ideal situation would be if you can arrange with your local bank to have all your bill payments withdrawn automatically from your bank account. If this is not possible you would have to mail a personal check from the ship for each bill payment or use Internet banking, which looks convenient, but in some remote ports you could encounter a limited Internet access and you might end up being late for a payment. Than you could either arrange with the cruise line to have your salary directly deposited to your bank account (and write personal checks for pocket money and cash them at the crew office on the ship) or wire money from the ship to your bank account (you would lose $20 U.S. on each transaction).

We can not stress hard enough four very crucial things you should not do while working on a cruise ship:

Using or possessing illegal drugs and narcotics. There is absolutely "zero tolerance" policy on cruise ships towards use or possession of illegal drugs and narcotics. Cruise lines perform random tests and checks of crew members and if a test turns positive there are not more questions asked, crew member gets fired from the job and sent home at the next port. The situation is even worse in case when a crew member is found in possession of illegal drugs - the person is submitted to the local authorities regardless of the ship's location at the moment and in some countries local laws call for very severe prison sentences in regards to illegal drugs possession. You do not need a particularly rich imagination in order to figure out what a jail in countries like Jamaica or Turkey, for example, would look and feel like.

Throwing any objects overboard (including garbage, matches, cigarette butts etc.) Cruise lines have gone through a lot of troubles, low suites with huge fines as a result, related to environmental pollution. Now their policies in this regard can not be stricter. Any crew member caught throwing any object overboard is fired from the job and sent home immediately.

Any form of sexual harassment or misconduct is absolutely unacceptable. As a result the offender is fired from the job on the spot and sent home. More severe cases will result in a law suite.

Do not miss the ship while in port. Always make sure that you are aware of the ship's departure time and the time you are required to be back onboard (usually half hour to an hour prior to departure). In case you go far away from the ship, leave plenty of time for return. If you miss the ship for some reason (you'd better have a serious one), contact the port agent. The cruise line will help you to get to the ship at the next port, but they will subtract all expenses (hotel, transportation etc.) from your next pay check. An additional problem could arise in case you would have to catch the ship in a different country and you would need your passport to get there (your passport always stays in the crew office during your contract, you are issued a crew photo ID instead, which is OK for the ports you visit, but not good for crossing an international border). As a result a disciplinary action could vary from written warning to getting fired from the job.

San Juan, Puerto Rico. Wyndham Hotel, just across the street from the cruise ship terminal. Tel. 787/289-0344

St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. On the 2-nd floor above Budget Car Rentals, across the street from Havensight cruise terminal and shopping complex. Tel. 340/776-7170

The company is opening soon new branches in Cozumel (Mexico), Miami (Florida) and St. Maarten (Dutch West Indies).

I WISH THIS NEXT SECTION WAS IN HTML BECAUSE I PROVIDED THE HYPERLINK TO EACH CRUISE SO YOU COULD “SEE THEM” BUT THAT DOESN'T WORK ON A BLOG :-)

American Hawaii Cruise Line P&O Cruises

Costa Cruise Line Princess Cruises

Carnival Cruise Line Radisson Seven Seas Cruises

Celebrity Cruises Royal Caribbean International

Crystal Cruises Royal Olympic Cruises

Cunard Line Silversea Cruises

Disney Cruise Line Seabourn Cruise Line

Grandi Navi Veloci Star Clippers

Holland America Cruise Line Star Cruises

Mediterranean Shipping Cruises Windjammer Barefoot Cruises

Norwegian Cruise Line Windstar Cruises

Orient Lines World Explorer Cruises

__________________________________________________________________________

If you're scared and you feel you absolutely MUST go through and agent so they can take 1/2 of everything you make :-)

Here they all are:

Cruise Ships Entertainment Booking Agencies Contacts

Send a cover letter, resume and promotional package to the cruise entertainment agencies listed below.

To learn how to prepare your promotional package, please CLICK HERE

Jean Ann Ryan Productions

Ms. Jean Ann Ryan

Producer

Jean Ann Ryan Productions

308 SE 14-th Street

Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316, U.S.A.

Tel. Ft. Lauderdale: 954/523-6399/ext.2

Tel. Malibu: 310/456-7221

E-mail: jarjobs@aol.com, General Information: jarinc2@aol.com

Website: www.jeanannryanproductions.com/

This agency hires singers, dancers, principals, technicians and musicians for their own in-house production shows performed aboard cruise ships. Ms. Ryan also contracts solo acts, illusionists and novelty acts.

If you can't attend one of our auditions you may submit a video audition.

All video auditions should be sent to:

Casting

Jean Ann Ryan Productions

308 SE 14th Street

Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316

Please include a current resume (with references) and two photographs (a full body and a headshot). Please put your name and phone number on each photo and on your video.

Your Video Tape (which can not be returned) should be 5-10 minutes in length and if possible should with a close-up of you clearly giving: Your Name, Telephone Number, Address and Date of the video.

Singers Tapes Should include 2-4 songs including an up-tempo and a ballad.

Dancers Tapes Should show your training and technique in a variety of dance

Styles.

Adagio Teams and Acrobats show us your technique and repetoire.

All videos may include actual performances but tell us how to identify you in the video.

Molyneux Entertainment

312 9th Ave South

Nashville, TN 37203, U.S.A.

Tel. (+1) 615.254.5411

Fax (+1) 615.254.5433

E-mail: questions@molyneux.org, molyneuxoffice@aol.com

Website: http://www.molyneux.org/

This agency is hiring:

Singers, Dancers and Actors for cruise ship, theme parks, hotels and television, and corporate/industrial shows

Entertainment and Cruise Staff positions for cruise lines

Acappella Singers - quality, professional quartets for cruise ships and clients worldwide.

Acappella Singers Auditions: If you are unable to attend one of the live audition dates (see information on live auditions below), send a resume, a photo and a promotional video tape. Please include in your video short samples of your vocal range, style, power, and quality control. Please include ALL of your falsetto abilities. The ability to harmonize and "pick a part" is crucial. All voice parts are welcomed. Please submit a non-returnable video, picture and resume to: "Acappella", 312 9th avenue South, Nashville, TN 37203 or for more information, telephone 615-254-5411. On the video please include all the above-mentioned samples. All video tapes MUST BE NTSC FORMATED (for US and Canadian video recorders).

Production Show Stage Singers Auditions: If you are unable to attend one of the live audition dates (see information on live auditions below), send a resume, a photo and a promotional video tape. On your video, please include a variety of styles and samples of your abilities. Please do not send full song selections, only the best clips from those selections. The more variety you can show the better. The video does not need to be professionally produced. The agency is looking for both male singers who have pop, rock tenor voices as well as more legit high baritones/tenors who sing musical theater and legit type music. Opera tenors are also welcomed as we need performers to sing Nessun Dorma, La Donna Mobile, The Prayer, Time To Say Goodbye, etc. Men who can sing all of these styles are greatly sought after. Also two types of female singers. One is a high alto/mezzo roles that can belt and sing pop songs like Celine Dion, Tina Turner, Martina McBride, Alexander's Ragtime Band, Night and Day, etc. The other style we need to fill is for more legit soprano/mezzo material like Phantom Of the Opera, Les Mis, O Mio Babbinno, Carmen, 42nd Street, The Sound Of Music, etc. Women who can switch between the two styles are always needed. All video tapes MUST BE NTSC FORMATED (for US and Canadian video recorders). Please submit a non-returnable video, picture and resume to: Molyneux Entertainment , Attn: Tim Carroll, 312 9th Avenue South, Nashville, TN 37203, Phone 615-254-5411, Fax: 615-254-5433, E-mail: questions@molyneux.org

Production Show Dancers Auditions: If you are unable to attend one of the live audition dates (see information on live auditions below), send a resume, a photo and a promotional video tape. On your video, please include brief clips of either your last few performances and/or a few minutes of you performing short combinations, leaps, turns, acro, stunts, work across the floor and anything else you think we would like to see to show your versatility, abilities and desire. The shows have Tap, Jazz, Swing, Latin, Pop, Fosse, Musical Theatre, Ballet, Contemporary and partnering styles. The video does not need to be professionally produced. They just need to be able to see you clearly. If you are including videos of your shows, make sure they know which person you are on the stage. All video tapes MUST BE NTSC FORMATED (for US and Canadian video recorders). Please submit a non-returnable video, picture and resume to: Molyneux Entertainment , Attn: Tim Carroll, 312 9th Avenue South, Nashville, TN 37203, Phone 615-254-5411, Fax: 615-254-5433, E-mail: questions@molyneux.org

Actors Auditions: Molyneux Water Worx, the new Theatrical division, is casting actors for roles onboard ships all year round, and is constantly seeking talented professionals to be a part of this exciting new program. Equity and Non equity actors are invited to audition for one of our 4-5 month contracts. Actors interested in consideration for Molyneux Waterworx should either audition in person, or send a headshot, resume, and video tape with 3 contrasting monologues, 2-4 minutes a piece. Comic material is highly suggested. For a contact, please call 615-254-5411 to schedule an audition or to ask any questions, or please send audition tapes to: Molyneux Entertainment, Attn: Matt Chiorini, 312 9th Ave. S., Nashville, TN, 37203. All video tapes MUST BE NTSC FORMATED (for US and Canadian video recorders).

Production Stage Managers: Send your self-interview video, resume to the address listed below. You will be contacted at a later date.

312 9th Ave South

Nashville, TN 37203, U.S.A.

Tel. (+1) 615.254.5411

Fax (+1) 615.254.5433

E-mail: questions@molyneux.org, molyneuxoffice@aol.com

Website: http://www.molyneux.org/

Live Auditions:

Molyneux Entertainment needs professional singers, dancers and actors to perform in productions opening around the world!

• The Crystal Harmony, there are Actor positions available year round

• The Crystal Symphony, there are Actor positions available year round

• All positions for various ships are open throughout the year.

• Emergency replacement male and female dancer spots are open for other cruise lines throughout the year.

Molyneux Entertainment always accepts video submissions throughout the year.

Stilletto Entertainment

Stiletto Entertainment hires experienced singers and dancers for our cruise ship shows. To submit a video audition, please follow these instructions and you'll be one step closer to an exciting experience performing at sea.

Stiletto Entertainment

Cruise Ship Casting

8295 S La Cienega Blvd

Inglewood, CA 90301, U.S.A.

Tel. (+1) 310/ 957-5757 x218 or x241

Fax: (+1) 310/ 957-5771

Website: http://www.stilettoentertainment.com/

Video Auditions:

Lead Singers:

MALE SINGERS: Baritones and Tenors with developed falsettos and a strong Broadway/Pop belt.

FEMALE SINGERS: Altos and Sopranos with strong legit and Broadway/Pop Belt voices.

To be considered for a future cast, please download the four forms from the web address below, fill them out, and mail in along with your photo/resume/audio/videotape.

http://www.stilettoentertainment.com/cruiseship_entertainment/download.htm

If you have previously completed our employment application and measurement form, please just send in the availability form as this changes every few months (all other forms are kept on file).

Please say your name and the city and state you live in at the beginning of your video and say something about yourself and why you want to go to sea on a cruise ship so your speaking voice can be heard and the agency can learn something about your personality. Please say if you are a singer who dances or a mover.

Record several vocal selections including uptempo and ballads from musical theater, 50's - 60's Pop, Pop/Rock, and country.

Men please show your work in falsetto.

Women please show your belt and head voice.

Please include video footage of previous show work that may help us determine your level of experience. Include as much footage with dance or movement as possible.

And please include an 8 X 10 head shot or other photo and a resume including your performance experience.

Singer/Dancers:

MALE AND FEMALE SINGER / DANCERS: Strong Broadway/Pop Belt with dance experience in jazz and ballet. Tap, gymnastics and acting a plus.

The shows have roles for singers who can really dance, so if you can do both, please follow the instructions for singers above and the instructions for dancers below.

To be considered for a future cast, please download the four forms from the web address below, fill them out, and mail in along with your photo/resume/audio/videotape.

http://www.stilettoentertainment.com/cruiseship_entertainment/download.htm

If you have previously completed our employment application and measurement form, please just send in the availability form as this changes every few months (all other forms are kept on file).

Dancers:

MALE AND FEMALE DANCERS: Experienced in jazz and ballet. Tap, gymnastic and acting a plus.

Please say your name and the city and state you live in at the beginning of your video and say something about yourself and why you want to dance on a cruise ship so your speaking voice can be heard and the agency can learn something about your personality. Please mention if you sing, too.

Record a combination showing what you can do as a dancer. Be sure to display as much technique and extension as possible. The actual length of the combination is up to you.

Men also show switch or scissors, switch seconds, tumbling and tap (triple time step or combo).

Women also show pointe work if comfortable on pointe and tap (triple time step or combo).

Please include video footage of previous show work that may help us determine your level of experience.

And please include an 8 X 10 head shot or other photo and a resume including your performance experience.

To be considered for a future cast, please download the four forms from the web address below, fill them out, and mail in along with your photo/resume/audio/videotape.

http://www.stilettoentertainment.com/cruiseship_entertainment/download.htm

If you have previously completed our employment application and measurement form, please just send in the availability form as this changes every few months (all other forms are kept on file).

Please send your video audition to:

Stiletto Entertainment

Cruise Ship Casting

8295 S La Cienega Blvd

Inglewood, CA 90301, U.S.A.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Call (310) 957-5757 x218

Openwide International

This agency hires Singers, Dancers for production shows performed aboard cruise ships, Cabaret Acts, Musicians, Entertainers, Cruise Directors, Ass. Cruise Directors, Cruise Staff, Youth Activity Coordinators, DJ's.

Well into its stride as a complete entertainment company, Openwide International, directed by Adam Wide and Steve Cutbush, operates from a HQ in Willesden Green which is a virtual fun factory. Openwide recruits entertainment and other cruise staff for the three Airtours cruising ships and also provides similar facilities for Thomson's overseas hotels and other companies. It prides itself on its development of formats of all kinds, production shows, children's entertainment, booking of individual artists and bands, contests and competitions, party nights, game shows and quizzes. Last year it went into on-shore show management, having been picked by North Norfolk District Council to produce the famous Seaside Special show at Cromer Pavilion, with Robert Marlowe in his last year as director. This year it has also taken on the West Cliff Theatre in Clacton. The all-round expertise of the company means that it is a major player in the organisation and administration of all types of corporate events.

Head Office:

Openwide International

24/26 Arcadia Avenue

Finchley Central, London, N3 2JU, UK

Tel: +44 (0)20 8349 7195

Fax: +44 (0)20 83497197

Website: www.openwideinternational.com/

E-mails: sharvey@openwideinternational.com, kgordon@openwideinternational.com, rainslie@openwideinternational.com

The Agency, Excellent Entertainment, Ltd.

Guest entertainers

Feature instrumentalists

Guest entertainers, have at least 2 x 40 minute shows catering to a wide diversity of ages and most are able to travel with minimum excess baggage. Our entertainers are sociable and professional, on and off stage.

Musicians

COCKTAIL PIANISTS

Large memorized repertoire and can really work a room.

Entertaining.

Have a professional attitude and appropriate etiquette.

Extensive performing experience.

HIGH-TEC DUOS

Musically self-contained, using a combination of sequencing and acoustic instruments.

Strong lead vocals and harmonies.

Cover a wide range of styles, from middle-of-the-road to top 40s, and some ballroom dancing repertoire.

Have a professional attitude and appropriate etiquette.

SHOW BAND MUSICIANS

Piano, bass, drums, guitar, trumpet, trombone, saxophone doubling on clarinet & flute.

Accompany production shows and variety acts.

Have a professional attitude and appropriate etiquette.

Excellent sight-reading abilities and a knowledge of repertoire from the 20's to 90's.

ISLAND BANDS (SOLO/DUO/TRIO/QUARTET)

Well-versed in all styles of Caribbean music.

Feature the steel pan.

Strong lead vocals and rich harmonies.

Have a professional attitude and appropriate etiquette.

LOUNGE/DANCE BANDS (TRIO/QUARTET/QUINTET)

Well-versed in many styles and eras of music.

Music for social dancing.

Strong lead vocals.

Have a professional attitude and appropriate etiquette.

CLASSICAL ENSEMBLES

Can play in the dining room or in other areas of the ship.

Can perform 30 or 45 minutes concerts and at tea time.

Have a large repertoire of classical and light classical music, as well as Broadway, film and contemporary pieces.

Have a professional attitude and appropriate etiquette.

This agency hires Singers, Dancers for production shows performed aboard cruise ships, Cabaret Acts, Musicians - Cocktail Pianists, Acoustic/High-Tec Duos, Showband Musicians, Island Bands, Lounge/Dance Bands - 3/4/5 Piece, Classical Ensembles, Entertainers - Feature instrumentalists, Comedians, Magicians/illusionists, Jugglers, Cabaret vocalists, Ventriloquists, Cruise Directors, Ass. Cruise Directors, Cruise Staff, Youth Activity Coordinators, DJ's, Fitness Instructors, Social Hostesses.

Guest entertainers must have at least 2 x 40 minute shows catering to a wide diversity of ages and most are able to travel with minimum excess baggage.

Please submit CV and recent photo to the below address (email to theagency@excellententertainment.biz) or telephone to find out about the latest contracts on offer.

The Agency

Excellent Entertainment, Ltd.

Suite 2

The Business Centre

120 West Heath Road

London NW3 7TX

Tel. + 44 (0) 20 8458 4212

Fax: + 44 (0) 20 8458 4572

E-mail: theagency@excellententertainment.biz

Website: http://www.excellententertainment.biz/

New Vision Dance Company

This agency hires Dancers and Singers.

New Vision Dance Company

New Vision Cirque

13518 Ivy Brooke Lane

Orlando Fl, 32828

Tel. (407) 207-3428, 1-866-We Dance

Fax (407) 926-1847

E-mail: newvisiondance@cfl.rr.com, newvisioncirque@cfl.rr.com

Website: http://www.newvisiondancecompany.com/

Cambrian Entertainments International

This agency hires all styles of musicians, solo pianists, Piano MD's, Duo's, Trio's, Quartet's & Quintets, Reading Musicians.

Cambrian Entertainments International

24 Titan Court,

Laporte Way,

Luton,

Bedfordshire,

LU4 8EF, UK

Tel. 0870 2009000

Fax: 01582 488877

E-mail: nicola@cambrianents.co.uk, info@cambrianents.co.uk, mailbox@cambrian.tv

Website: http://www.cambrianents.co.uk/, http://www.forliveartistes.com/index.asp

American Entertainment Productions

This agency hires Singer/Dancers, Dancers, Musicians - piano, drums, guitar, banjo, fiddle, bass, all brass instruments and sax, Sound and Light Technicians.

American Entertainment Productions

Attn: Casting

1846 Hightower Dr.

Columbus, OH 43235

Tel. 1-800-221-8388

E-mail: auditions@americanentertainment.cc., info@americanentertainment.cc

Website: http://www.americanentertainment.cc/

Link to comment
Share on other sites

ABOVE ALL ENTERTAINMENT

15 Eastport Lane, Lewes,

East Sussex BN7 1TL, UK

Tel: 01273 486622

Fax: 01273 486633

ELAINE AVON

127 Westhall Road, Warlingham,

Surrey CR3 9HJ, UK

Tel: 01883 622317

Elaine Avon is one of the longest established cruise bookers in the business, specialising in the top end of the market. Her clients include Crystal Cruises, Seabourn and Radisson. Sophisticated and polished artists are required and she books performers from the United States, Europe and South America, as well as the United Kingdom.

The Weinstein Agency

Mr. Abe Weinstein

P.O. Box 37725, Honolulu, HI 96837, U.S.A.

Phone: (808) 941-9974 - Fax: (808) 943-0224

Email: AEWjazfest@aol.com

Website: http://www.abeweinstein.com/

ProShip Entertainment

ProShip Entertainment

5253 Decarie Blvd, Suite 308

Montreal, PQ, Canada, H3W 3C2

Tel. 1-888-477-6744, 514/485-8823

Fax: 514/485-2675

E-mail: info@proship.com

Website: www.proship.com

This agency hires showband musicians, solo pianists, guest bands and show production staff. ProShip is an exclusive agent for Celebrity Cruises, they also hire for Princes Cruises, Royal Caribbean International and others.

Bramson Entertainment Bureau, Inc.

This contact hires Guest Entertainers, Musicians, Singers.

Please send all materials (video is essential) to:

Linda Raff

President

Bramson Entertainment Bureau, Inc.

630 Ninth Ave. - Suite 203

New York, NY 10036, USA

Tel. ( 212 ) 265 - 3500 Fax: ( 212 ) 265 - 6615

Please allow a period of two to three weeks to view materials.

E-mail: webmaster@bramson.com

Website: http://www.bramson.com/entert.html

BASA PRODUCTIONS

Suite C, 17a High Street, Walton-on-Thames,

Surrey KT12 1DJ, UK

Tel: +44 (0) 158 247 6213, Fax: +44 (0) 158 247 5263

Email: info@basaproductions.com

Website: http://www.basaproductions.com/

Walton-on-Thames company which is responsible for most of the entertainment on the two Orient Lines cruise ships, the Marco Polo and Crown Odyssey. Entertainment on both ships comprises a range of production shows, using a company of eight performers on each ship, plus guest cabaret, bands and solo pianists. The company is run by John Barker, himself a cruise entertainer of many years experience who still undertakes several cruises each year. The choreographer is David Samuel.

BLACKBURN INTERNATIONAL UK LTD.

Suite B

26 Craven Court

Stanhope Rd.

Camberley

Surrey

GU15 3BS

United Kingdom

Tel. 01276 686661, 01276 686662, 01276 685534

Fax: 01276 681415

Website: http://www.blackburninternational.com/

One of the oldest established cruise booking agencies, with more than 50 specialised cabaret acts plus bands and groups working on top cruise ships. The company also provides production shows, most recently on Holland America's flagship Rotterdam, when seven different productions were mounted for the world cruise. Veteran booker Allan Blackburn can be found at the head office in Monte Carlo. His son Jonathan, himself an experienced cruise director, is based at the English office.

BROADWAY BOUND INC

830 Broadway, 3rd Floor, New York City, NY 10003, USA

Tel. 212-674-8631

Fax 212-475-1567

Office hours are Monday through Friday 10a-6p EST

Email: castingcoordinator@broadwayboundinc.com

questions@broadwayboundinc.com

Website: http://www.broadwayboundinc.com/

American company supplying artists and production shows to leading cruise lines.

CHANCERY CRUISING

2-3 Cursitor Street, Chancery Lane, London EC4A 1NE, UK

Tel: 020 7405 7056

Fax: 020 7405 0903

Email: holborn@dial.pipex.com

Website: http://www.chancerycruising.com/

London company which specialises in jazz and big band cruises, using ships at the top end of the market from lines such as Holland America and Cunard.

IAN CLARK ENTERTAINMENTS

20 Blackwall Road, Ashford, Kent TN24 0NU,UK

Tel: 01233 63 5422

Agency based in Ashford, Kent, which has long specialised in ferry entertainment, the main clients being Brittany Ferries and P&O Stena Line Irish Ferries. The Brittany Ferries vessels carry a full entertainment team, including vocalists, bands, children's entertainers and magic acts and this year sees the arrival of the largest ferry in the fleet, Mont St Michel. There is a surprising amount of entertainment on the Irish crossings, including duos, trios and vocalists and, interestingly, tribute bands.

CRUISING MUSICALS CONSORTIUM

Suite 3, Waldorf Chambers, 11 Aldwych, London WC2B 4DG, UK

New company founded by noted theatre producers Paul Elliott and Chris Moreno aimed at the cruise market. Currently has a range of shows aboard Oriana and Aurora, two ships in the P&O Cruises fleet.

HIRE NOTES

Email: castinghirenotes@aol.com

Full service production company with offices in Las Vegas and Orlando specialising in live entertainment for the cruise ship industry. Clients include Disney Cruise Line, NYK (Japan), Japan Cruise Line and Holland America. Also supplies bands and individual musicians, musical arrangements and soundtrack production. Its staff includes a full-time choreographer, Gail Davies-Sigler, costume designer Adolf Von Spee, scenic designer Pieter Grove and musical director Robert Sigler.

ROGER KENDRICK CRUISE ENTERTAINMENTS

6 Orchard Road, St Annes on Sea, Lancashire FY8 1RY, UK

Tel: 01253 726046

Roger Kendrick has concentrated on booking cruise entertainment ever since he came ashore 25 years ago after working for cruise lines as a bandleader. Based in St Annes, near Blackpool, he is a major supplier of musicians and acts for Royal Olympic and Costa Lines. The international nature of the industry means that he has associates in most European countries.

KEY SIGNATURE INTERNATIONAL

Key Signature International, Suite 550, Andover House, George Yard, Andover, Hampshire SP10 1PB.

Telephone (+44) 01264 335344

Fax: 01264 351353

Email: piano@keysignature.co.uk

Website: http://www.keysignature.co.uk/

Andover music agency operated by Stephen Warnett, himself on the ships for a number of years. Supplies solo pianists and reading musicians to most of the cruise lines, and reports a neverending demand.

Mike Maloney Entertainment, LLC

Mr. Mike Maloney

P.O. Box 371059

Las Vegas, Nevada 89137, U.S.A.

Tel. 702/243-7456

Email: mmec@mmec.com

Website: http://www.mmec.com/

This agent hires mostly guest bands for a number of cruise lines (Holland America Line, Royal Caribbean International, Princess Cruises) and also books for even better paid hotel gigs in the Far East.

Garry Brown Associates, Ltd.

Mr. Garry Brown

Chairman/Chief Executive

Garry Brown Associates, Ltd.

27 Downs Side

Cheam, Surrey, England SM2 7EH

Tel. 020 8643 3991, 8643 8375, Fax: 020 8770 7241

Email: gbaltd@compuserve.com

This agency hires showband musicians, solo pianists, guest bands, dancers, magicians, jugglers and variety acts for a number of cruise lines and also for major international hotel chains.

Showmasters Entertainment

Mr. Larry Harmon

Showmasters Entertainment

31740 Elders Mill Road Senoia, GA 30276, U.S.A.

This agency hires entertainment personnel for various cruise lines.

Big Beat Productions

1515 University Drive, Suite 108 A

Coral Springs, FL 33071, U.S.A.

Tel. 954/755-7759, Fax: 954/ 755-8733

Emails: talent@bigbeatproductions.com

rlloyd@bigbeatproductions.com

rlee@bigbeatproductions.com

gladka@bigbeatproductions.com

nyousefi@bigbeatproductions.com

msmiley@bigbeatproductions.com

Website: http://www.bigbeatproductions.com/

This agency is booking solo acts, specialty acts, comediants and musicians for several cruise lines.

GARY PARKES MUSIC

172 Haverstock Hill, London NW3 2AT, UK

Tel: 020 7794 1581

Fax 020 7431 5537

Email gary@garyparkes.com

Website: http://www.garyparkes.com/

Agency run by a musician with many years cruising experience. Books solo pianists, duos and trios for cruise work and is now looking for classical musicians for Cunard.

PARTNERSHIP EVENTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

39-41 Devonshire Street, Keighley, West Yorkshire BD21 2BH, UK

Tel: 01535 690707

Fast-growing company based in Keighley, originally creating events for stately homes, museums and the like but now very much involved in the cruise market. The company, headed by Martin Pearson and Susannah Daley, specialises in creating themes for cruises, not merely shows but special events, liaising very closely with the cruise company, devising theme nights, producing shows, selecting cruise directors, visiting acts, children's entertainers and musicians. Festival Cruises has entrusted the entertainment programme aboard European Vision to Partnership Events and Entertainment, which has 45 staff onboard.

Don Casino Productions

Don Casino Productions

20880 West Dixie Hwy.

Suite 105

Miami, FL. 33180

Tel. (305) 931 7552

Fax: (305) 931 7553

Email: info@doncasino.com

Website: www.doncasino.com

This agency contracts novelty acts, solo acts, comediants and musicians for various cruise lines.

Greg Thompson Productions

Greg Thompson Productions

Attn: Connie Corrick

921 Elliot Avenue W.

Seattle, WA. 98119, U.S.A.

Tel. 206/281-0885

Email: casting@gregthompsonproductions.com

Singers

PERFORMANCE SKILLS:

Dancer:_________

(types)_______________________________________

Singer:_________

(type/range)__________________________________

Act:________

(type)________________________________________

INFORMATION RECEIVED VIA E-MAIL:

casting@gregthompsonproductions.com

Resume __________ Picture__________

INFORMATION RECEIVED VIA MAIL:

Audition / Casting Information

(Print and send in with your audition materials)

PERSONAL:

Name:_________________________ Phone: (Home)_____________

Address:_______________________ (Work)______________

Street Number

____________________________

City, State, Zip

Height:_______ Weight:_______ Citizenship:______________

Dancers

Current photos. Include a full body and a head shot. If you do not have professional photos, snap shots are acceptable. Please label each photo with name and phone number.

Current resume with dates and references.

Audition video of you performing a strong jazz combination. Include double or triple pirouettes on each side, kicks to show flexibility, strong arms and contemporary movements to show style. If you also tap, do adagio or acro, sing, etc., you can include this on the end of the tape.

Videotapes need to be labeled with location and date. Include a close-up shot of your face stating clearly: name, address, area code and phone number, weight and height (next to a tape measure if available). Pull out to a full body shot with no extra clothing wrapped around the waist (i.e. sweatshirts). Also, no baggy clothing. The idea is to see what body type the performer has. Female dancers should wear character shoes. Perform 2-3 combinations. Please check the tape before sending it in to make sure everything is clear. Footage can be of previous show work as long as you write out a position by position description of where you are (i.e. "I'm the girl in the pink hat who enters from stage left and then dances with the guy in the blue jacket.").

PERFORMANCE SKILLS:

Dancer:_________

(types)_______________________________________

Singer:_________

(type/range)__________________________________

Act:________

(type)________________________________________

INFORMATION RECEIVED VIA E-MAIL:

casting@gregthompsonproductions.com

Resume __________ Picture__________

INFORMATION RECEIVED VIA MAIL:

Audition / Casting Information

(Print and send in with your audition materials)

PERSONAL:

Name:_________________________ Phone: (Home)_____________

Address:_______________________ (Work)______________

Street Number

____________________________

City, State, Zip

Height:_______ Weight:_______ Citizenship:______________

This contact is producing shows and booking entertainment for the cruise industry.

SHOWBIZ INTERNATIONAL

Rossall Point, 83 Princes Way, Fleetwood, nr Blackpool, Lancashire FY7 8DX, UK

Tel: 01253 771000

Fax: 01253 777711

Email: showbizinternational@btinternet.com

A cruising consultancy, now in its eighth year, in Fleetwood run by John and Carol Crossley, who between them have spent 35 years working on cruise ships. They supply speciality acts and musicians to several lines, including Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Lines, and are always on the lookout for solo pianist/singers.

PETER GREY TERHUNE PRESENTS

PGT Entertainment

P.O. Box 715, Cape Canaveral, FL. 32920, USA

Tel: 321 4532313 ext 15

Fax: 321 4536511

Email: info@pgtpi.com

Website: http://www.pgtpi.com/

Auditioning for new talent is an ongoing process for PGT Entertainment, and each year the production organization holds open auditions in locations worldwide including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, London and Milano.

For further information please contact Casting Director, Emmett Murphy at casting@pgtpi.com

Auditions

PGT Entertainment, a Florida based production company, is casting for singers and dancers for casino, touring and luxury cruise ship production shows in various cities and popular audition theater conferences year round. Additionally, a private audition can be scheduled at the PGT Entertainment headquarters if you are visiting the Florida area.

SEEKING: Excellent, attractive and versatile singers with the ability to sing Broadway, pop/rock and classical styles. Also seeking: attractive male and female dancers with strong technique in ballet, theater, jazz and tap. Height requirements: Females 5’3"-5’9" Males 5’9-6’3". Competitive salary.

BRING: Please bring a photo, resume. Singers: 16 bars of several contrasting pieces of sheet music. Accompanist provided. Dancers: Please wear appropriate dance attire and shoes. Female dancers should wear character shoes; no black leggings, skirts or baggy clothing.

Audition Submissions

In order for PGT Entertainment to consider you for employment, you must attend a live audition or submit demo material (not by email).

VIDEO/DVD/CDV/CD SUBMISSIONS

"Thank you so much for your interest in PGT Entertainment. Although live auditions are preferred, we do realize that they are not always possible. PGT Entertainment accepts submissions of demo material (not by email). Personally, I get the most information from a video taped performance edited down to 4-8 minutes. As PGT Entertainment produces revue shows encompass various styles of music, song and dance, please reflect this in the material that you are submitting. If a video taped performance is not possible, please submit any type of material that best shows your talent, skill, versatility and performance ability. In addition, please include at least the following with your packet.

-Headshot or photograph. Photographs that include your body are always helpful.

-Resume

-Talent ability. (Example Dancer: Ballet, Acro, Tap and Jazz or SINGER: Tenor:G ­ B flat)

-Complete and permanent contact information (VERY IMPORTANT)

-A cover letter explaining what you are interested in, availability and special skills or requirements.

The more you can submit, the more clearly PGT Entertainment can clearly see who you are and what you do. This is often the deciding factor when it comes to casting from a submission. Please be aware that all of the material that you submit will not be returned to you.

Always stay in touch with PGT Entertainment. In the months (or years) to come, let us know what you are up to. This communication will help keep your file active. A quick phone call, post card or email is sufficient. It is often the most persistent people who get cast!

Thank you so much and I wish you the very best with your search."

Emmett Murphy,

Casting Director

SINGERS ­ SINGERS/DANCERS

PGT Entertainment is looking for excellent singers that can handle and understand VARIED STYLES OF SINGING.

At least 2 varied and contrasting selections of each:

Broadway. For example: Oklahoma & Hairspray

Pop. For example: 50's & Elton John

Classical or Opera (if this is appropriate to your training). For example Josh Groban & Verdi / Sarah Brightman & Mozart

It is not necessary to sing the entire song but do display the money notes. Be sure I can hear your range from top to bottom. When possible, use actual show clips, which will help me, determine your performance ability.

PGT Entertainment produces shows that vary in style (broadway, pop, opera, swing). When choosing and performing material, please be sure to display as much appropriate style in each song as you can.

All singers are actual Leads and Ensemble singers. If possible, please include a selection that shows SATB, trio, and/or duet styles.

All of our singers must move well or in some cases dance. It is helpful to see you your skill level. Actual show clips would be very beneficial.

DANCERS

Please emphasize Jazz (include Swing & Tap) and Ballet. Please use as little hip-hop as possible.

Please include any demonstration of your technique turns, leaps, Russians, splits, and extension. Any acrobatics or specialties are important to include.

Please wear dance clothing that shows your body in the most flattering way. No black leggings, if possible.

All dancers will do some partnering which will include lifts.

If your tape includes show clips with others onstage, please include a note identifying where you are on the stage.

An American company, based in Florida, which presents classy productions for up-market cruise lines, notably Radisson Seven Seas, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Princess Cruises and Costa Cruises. Cast units vary in size from four to 14, always with a vocal quartet at its core. For that reason the company is always looking for singers who can move well, dancers who can also sing and dancers who do not sing. Casts assemble in Cocoa, Florida for three to six weeks rehearsal, then join a ship for a six-month period. Many of the performers are recruited through auditions held in London.

VALENTINE PRODUCTIONS

51 Wern Goch, Llanederyn, Cardiff CF23 7AB

Tel/fax: 029 20 311 476

Email: valentineprod@ntlworld.com

Formed in 2000 by former dancer/choreographer Catherine John. Supplies exclusively to Mediterranean Shipping Company but books dancers and performers for several cruise lines.

The Working Vacation, Inc.

Specialized in recruiting gentlemen dance hosts, presenters, lecturers, dance instructors, religious services.

Lauretta Blake The Working Vacation ® Inc.

12544 West 159 Street

Lockport, Illinois 60441 USA

Phone: 708-301-7535

Fax: 708-301-6202

Corporate Office - California

Administrative Office - Illinois

If you would like to be considered as a candidate for The Gentlemen Host® Program, please, fill in the application request form at:

http://www.theworkingvacation.com/text/info_request.html

Questions about presenters, lecturers and dance instructors aboard cruise ships can be answered by emailing:

trish@theworkingvacation.com

General questions can be answered by emailing:

info@theworkingvacation.com

Elite Artiste Management Ltd.

READING MUSICIANS: Piano/MD, Electric Bass, Drums, Guitar, Saxes (Alt, Ten, & Sop), Keyboard/Synth: Click track experience and excellent sight reading required for contracts throughout the year.

LOUNGE BANDS & ARTISTES: Cocktail Trios/Quartets - strict tempo, standards, 2 vocal minimum required Contemporary Quartets/Quintets - 50s, 60s, through to Top 40 dance, contemporary standards, 2 vocal minimum required Duos - Piano/Keyboard based, cocktail music to contemporary, 2 vocals required.

SOLO PIANO/VOCALISTS - sing-a-longs, cocktail music, memorised repertoire ranging from standards to contemporary and SOLO COCKTAIL PIANISTS - similar memorised repertoire.

LIGHT CLASSICAL TRIOS - Piano, Double Bass, Violin, repertoire ranging from popular light classical pieces, show tunes, and contemporary standards.

Elite Artiste Management Ltd.

2, Fieldsway House

Fieldway Crescent

London

N5 1QA

UK

Tel. +44 (0)207 619 0220

Fax: +44 (0)207 619 0330

Email: info@elite-artistes.com

Website: http://www.elite-artistes.com/

Ellie Jay Entertainment Consultants

Ellie Jay Entertainment Consultants

53 Theobald Street,

Borehamwood,

Hertfordshire

WD6 4RT UK

Telephone: 0800 833136

ESI Entertainment

ESI Entertainment

Kurt Glenn

Minneapolis, MN, USA

Tel: 952.470.9000

Email: kurt@esientertainment.com

Link to comment
Share on other sites

First Class Entertainment, Inc.

First Class Entertainment, Inc., is a full service entertainment agency specializing in event planning for corporate events, cruise ship entertainment, casino and resort attractions and more. FCE offers performing artist representation and personal management.

All entertainers who would like to be considered for representation should send the following:

• VHS Video Tape (in NTSC format only)

• Photo (8 in. x 10 in.)

• Bio and/or Resume

• Song List (If musical performer)

• CD/Cassette (If musical performer)

Mail to:

FIRST CLASS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.

New Talent Department

483 Ridgewood Road

Maplewood, NJ 07040-2136

USA

Tel. (973) 763-0591, Fax: (973) 763-0570, Email talent@gotofirstclass.com

Website: http://www.gotofirstclass.com

Live Business Grosvenor Productions

SOLO VOCAL ENTERTAINER (with instrument)

Playing either piano, keyboards or guitar Lounge entertainers working with backing tracks or midi files. Must have comprehensive repertoire covering standards, easy-listening and pop from all eras (a minimum of two hundred songs is required)

VOCAL/INSTRUMENTAL DUO

As above Boy/Girl line-ups, both with vocals ideally featuring some ballroom selections.

4/5 PIECE BAND

An entertaining, versatile and exciting live band featuring male & female vocals and good BVs. A large pad is essential covering themed deck parties, 60s, 70s, C&W, R&R also lounge and easy listening sets.

SOLO VOCAL ENTERTAINER

Working with own tracks or live band. A quality voice and endearing personality with a comprehensive repertoire of standards and current pop to work as opening act for theatre production shows and various other rooms around the ship.

Please note that references are required for the above positions.

Please send info to:

Peter Chittenden,

Music Department,

Live Business Grosvenor Productions,

6 Calico Row, Plantation Wharf,

London, SW11 3UF, UK

Tel: 020 7924 5550 | Email: info@livebusiness.co.uk

Website: http://www.livebusiness.co.uk/jobs.htm

They also hire:

Singers/Dancers - Email: info@livebusiness.co.uk , Subject: Job Title: Singer/Dancer. (Please attach a recent photograph).

Cruise Host/Light Entertainer - Email: info@livebusiness.co.uk , Subject: Job Title: Cruise Host/Light Entertainer. (Please attach a recent photograph).

DJ-s - Email: info@livebusiness.co.uk , Subject: Job Title: DJ

Stage Technician - Email: info@livebusiness.co.uk , Subject: Job Title: Stage Techician.

Cruise Director/Entertainment Manager - Email: info@livebusiness.co.uk , Subject: Job Title: .Cruise Director/Entertainment Manager (Please attach a recent photograph).

Solo Act - Email: info@livebusiness.co.uk , Subject: Job Title: Solo Act. (Please attach a recent photograph).

Band or Musician - Email: info@livebusiness.co.uk , Subject: Job Title: Band or Musician. (Please attach a recent photograph).

Don't forget to attach

your CV in PDF or Word 97 format.

INTERNATIONAL CRUISE SERVICES

INTERNATIONAL CRUISE SERVICES

36 MIDLOTHIAN DRIVE

GLASGOW

G41 3QU

SCOTLAND

Tel: (44) 141 649 8644

Fax: (44) 141 636 1016

WEBSITE: http://www.cruiseservices.co.uk/

This agency hires:

ART ACTIONEERS, CRUISE DIRECTORS, ASSISTANT CRUISE DIRECTORS, CRUISE STAFF, DANCERS AND SINGERS, CHOREOGRAPHERS,

DISC JOCKEYS, GENTLEMAN HOSTS, INTERNATIONAL HOSTS, LIGHTING AND SOUND TECHNICIANS, LOUNGE GROUPS, PORT LECTURER,

STAGE/PRODUCTION MANAGERS, ASSISTANT STAGE/ PRODUCTION MANAGERS, SOCIAL HOSTESSES, SPECIALIITY ACTS.

Key Signature International

Key Signature International

Suite 550, Andover House

George Yard

Andover

Hampshire SP10 1PB, UK

Telephone: (+44) 01264 335344

Email: piano@keysignature.co.uk ; Subject: Cruise Ship Guidelines

This agency hires musicians, solo vocalists and tribute acts.

You could also fill in their online application form: http://www.keysignature.co.uk/musoform.php

KMC Agencies

KMC Agencies

P.O BOX 122,

48 Great Ancoats Street,

Manchester, M4 5AB

Tel. +44 (0) 161 237 3009

Fax: +44 (0) 161 237 9812

e: info@kmcagencies.co.uk

e: castings@kmcagencies.co.uk

This agency hires dancers.

Maritime Leisure Group

Maritime Leisure Group

The Lloyd's Building

1 Lime Street

London EC3M 7HA, UK

Tel: 0207 929 5533, Fax: 0207 929 5534

Email: personnel@maritimeleisure.com

Website: http://www.maritimeleisure.com/

Mondiale Entertainment

Mondiale Entertainment

47 Sonning Way

Glen Parva

Leicester

LE2 9RU. England

Tel: 00 34 659 546 295

Fax: 0044 (0) 116 2332775

Email: info@mondiale-entertainment.com

Website: http://www.mondiale-entertainment.com/

Sixth Star Entertainment & Marketing

Sixth Star Entertainment & Marketing

Attn: Outreach Dept.

21 NW 5th Street

Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301, U.S.A.

Tel. (954) 462-6760

Fax: (954) 462-0737

Email: info@sixthstar.com

Website: http://www.sixthstar.com/

This agency hires for the following positions:

Art Auctioneer

Asst./Deputy Cruise Director

Cruise Director

Disc Jockey

Guest Communicator (Desktop Publishing) - Disney Cruise Line

Headline Entertainers

International Host/Hostess

Musicians - Showband, Solo Acts, Duos & Groups

International Host/Hostess

Production Cast Members - Singers & Dancers

Port/Shopping Speaker

Social Host/Hostess

Technical Staff - Broadcast, Stage, Sound & Lights

Pepperpot Promotions

Pepperpot Promotions

Suite 20b, 20-22 Orde Hall Street,

Holborn, London WC1N 3JW, UK

Tel: 020 7405 9108

Email: chris@pepperpot.co.uk

Website: http://www.pepperpot.co.uk/

Showbiz International Cruising Ltd.

Showbiz International Cruising Ltd.

Rossall Point Fleetwood,

83 Princes Way,

Nr Blackpool,

Lancashire.

FY7 8DX UK

Telephone : 01253 777711

Fax: 01253 773358

How to negotiate your first contract

Let's say that you have already passed the job interview with a cruise line personnel department or a concession (subcontractor) and it is time to sign your contract. Usually there is not very much room for negotiations in terms of salary, choosing a particular ship or itinerary when you sign your first contract and most likely you would be very excited that you have been offered the job and anxious to join the ship as soon, as possible. That's OK, but you could do certain amount of home work in advance and definitely clarify some important conditions (these points are highlighted in red further on). A very important clue for whether you have any space for negotiations or not, is how soon the cruise line calls you for an interview after you apply for the job and how soon you are offered the position after the interview. In case the whole process takes not more than 10-15 days, that is a good indication that the cruise line badly needs personnel for this position at the moment and you could have some room for negotiations. In any case, be cautious and reasonable. Do not forget that everybody is replaceable and there could be some other applicants, as well.

1. Ask precisely what kind of privileges you will be entitled to once you join the ship. Onboard privileges vary depending on your position, rank, department and sometimes on the cruise line.

Are you going to be able to go to passenger area on the ship when not on duty?

Can you use certain passenger food facilities (buffet, pizzeria, bistro, restaurants) or you would have to use the crew/staff mess only? The word "mess" is a nautical term for the "crew dining room", usually that place is OK, but on some ships it could be quite messy

Can you use some other passenger facilities like gym (there is a crew gym, as well), swimming pools (most of the ships have a crew pool), sauna? Passenger facilities are always better than the ones "for crew only" and on most of the cruise ships some staff and crew members are allowed to use them at specific off-peak hours.

Can you sit down in a show lounge and watch a show or a movie, can you use a passenger bar and if you can, do you get a "crew discount" on beverages?

We are not trying to say that you should not accept the contract in case you do not get some or all of the above mentioned deck privileges (most of the time they are not negotiable, they just go with the shipboard position you are signing for), but those privileges make the contract easier, especially if it's a long one.

2. What kind of accommodation are you getting onboard? A standard accommodation is two persons sharing a cabin. Some higher ranking officers or staff members get their own cabin.

3. How many hours per week are you expected to work on the ship and what is your working schedule going to be on port days? Usually positions which require hours on duty during port times work on rotating schedule, so everybody gets to see the ports.

4. Are you expected to perform any duties not related directly to your shipboard positions? Many crew and staff members are required to perform certain safety-related duties while onboard a cruise ship (participating in safety drills once a week etc.)

5. Read very carefully your contract. Make sure that the dates of embarkation and disembarkation are exactly the same as promised and also that is very clear whether the cruise line is responsible to fly you to the ship and back home by the end of the contract.

6. Study the cruise line and the ship that you are about to join. This CD-ROM will provide some information (click on Cruise Lines Profiles). You could also pick up a few brochures from a nearby travel agency. Despite of the fact that these brochures are designed to attract passengers, by reading them carefully you should be able to learn many things about the company, the ship and the itinerary.

Your life aboard a cruise ship will depend quite a lot on the nature of your job and the itinerary of the ship. Certain positions might require working night shifts on rotation basis (navigational bridge, reception desk, security personnel). In that case you would have to sleep during the day. Other positions could require working until late at night (casino staff, musicians, entertainers) or starting very early in the morning (galley department, deck attendants). Basically you built your daily routine around your working schedule.

Ships itinerary can influence your lifestyle, as well. In case you get a contract in the Caribbean or the Mexican Riviera, most likely you will try to spend as much time, as possible on the beach on port days and at the crew pool on sea days. In case you are doing an European contract, chances are that you would devote your port times to sightseeing. In Alaska is less likely that you would spend much time at the pool, you would rather be hiking in the mountains, watching the glaciers or trying to spot some wildlife.

Whatever your position or the itinerary of the ship might be there are still some general onboard routine crew members get accustomed to. After work they work out in the gym and/or go to the crew bar/disco, have a drink and chat with friends. There are various organized recreational activities for crew members, as well (disco nights, theme parties, movie nights, bingo nights etc.) Another thing that we thought was worth mentioning is that it would be a good idea if you had some personal projects to work on while on the ship - learn a foreign language (with so many crew members from different nationalities onboard, you will always find somebody to practice with), get your school books in case you are attending a college or planning to do so, learn new computer skills, get into photography (there will be plenty of great photo opportunities). This way you could double or triple the benefit from your cruise experience - save money, meet new friends, see the world and have some constructive work done. Otherwise you can get caught easily in a "working-drinking-sleeping-working" routine (alcohol on cruise ships is duty-free and available almost everywhere at anytime). Officers and some staff members will get the so called "officer's account", a number very much like a credit card number, which could be used for purchasing drinks in crew and passenger bars and discos, purchasing goods in the onboard gift shop etc. Accounts are to be settled by the end of each month. Although this is quite convenient feature, be aware, it could be dangerous, too. We have seen crew members with accounts not far below their monthly salary.

The best thing to do would be to find a well balanced schedule - do your job onboard, keep yourself in a good physical shape (work out), work on your personal projects and enjoy life - visit the ports, party with friends. There is time for everything if you are well organized, after all you would not have to spend time for grocery shopping, cooking and washing the dishes on the ship (unless you work as a cook or dishwasher).

Good Luck To All You Guys And Your Singing Endevours,

-Ken Tamplin

Link to comment
Share on other sites

"it's Funny, I wasn't looking to piss people off (Jen), I said "In my experience".

I'm not sure how you could possibly pit James Lugo /Jamie against people like Dr. David Kyle, Ron Anderson, Justin Thomas, Billimi Canana, Dimitri Astanov or a number of Italian instructors.

-Ken"

Do you mean me when you say Jen? ;) The name is Jens and im a guy, Jens is a guys name in sweden hehe.

Well again sorry if i flamed you seam like a nice guy, but your post and topic made you comeout in the wrong way.

I would pit Jaime and James versus any coach if it would come to rocksinging, me and my friends have evolved like crazy using their programs.

My best friend who is a bassbaritone got a Tenorregister after he used James program for like 4 month. It was as if it happened overnight, and he can sing in it very comfortable and it is there when he calls for it.

My own rockfalsetto has gone crazy using jaime's program and i can now use it like a rockmix i metalsinging, and his technique has let me travel to the far end of the piano.

Add to this i havent trained with anyone of them inperson just used their programs.

What Bel Canto are to you these guys are to me. Well cheers I think you make realy good contribution to the site :P / Jens Johansson

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
×
×
  • Create New...