I'm looking to break into voiceovers, but I need to put together a demo. Any advice on good plces to record here in NYC, as well as what type of material to use? Thanks!

Have you had any VO training yet?

If you haven't, you should really invest in training first.

Voice over looks a LOT easier than it is, especially for us actors. It's just "reading what's on the page, right?"

Sort of.

There are different categories of VO -- commercial, announcer/narrator, corporate/industrial, gaming, and animation. You will need separate demos for each category you want to "work" in.

Also, you really really really NEED to know what your strengths are, which is a combo of your actual skill (which comes with experience), and your vocal timbre.

You really have to know that before you start to record a demo -- so you know what kinds of copy you will want to use for your demo (even if you're only doing a commercial demo - you need to know the kinds of ads, demographics, essences, etc that best play to your strengths - and you only will know that by practice reading ad copy over an extended period of time such as in *ahem* a VO class).

Last thing.

If you're a guy that has the kind of voice that lends itself to "annoucery" type voices (the guys who do the "This is NBC Nightly News with..." or "movie trailer" voices a la Don LaFontaine, training is even more paramount - because while it's an "in demand" category, you'll also face the stiffest competition. You better be ready.

And if you're a woman hoping to get into animation, even if you have such a unique voice you still need training before putting together an animation demo -- and even then, quite a number of VOs will start in commercial or industrials before moving into animation.

Good luck!

Don Quixote nailed it!

You need training before you fork over at least $1000.

In addition to Voice Over classes, take an improv class. That will teach you to use your imagination and bring the script to life. It will also help you loosen up while you're in the isolation chamber (recording booth).

quote:

Originally posted by BETTYE ZOLLER:
I echo advice of others here.

Quite impressive for Back Stage to have you post here.

I follow your comments on the Yahoo VO Group