A Prelude
Posted Sunday, March 3rd 2013 by Eli Zoller
Before I became a professional music director, I had every intention of becoming a musical theatre performer. I studied four years at the prestigious Musical Theatre program at the University of Michigan, then, as was expected, pursued the life of an actor here in New York. But somewhere along the way, I made a turn and didn't quite end up where I'd planned...
Before I became a professional music director, I had every intention of becoming a musical theatre performer. I studied four years at the prestigious Musical Theatre program at the University of Michigan, then, as was expected, pursued the life of an actor here in New York. But somewhere along the way, I made a turn and didn't quite end up where I'd planned. The road between my intended profession and the one I actually have has been fraught with setbacks and frustrations that left me questioning my path and my purpose. I struggled to answer the larger questions: If I was meant to be a music director, why is performance so important to me? Should I have studied something different? Is being a music director instead of a performer an upgrade or downgrade professionally? Whether or not these questions had merit, they were the ones haunting me.
So when I needed answers, I went back to the beginning. Rather than getting caught up in trying to become what others considered “cast-able” (an elusive target if there ever was one), I remembered my training, embraced the music that I loved (regardless of its current popularity), and focused on improving my own unique skills, which helped me identify my talent and passion for music direction. It took time, dedication, and the support of friends and mentors, but I'm proud and humbled to say that success has followed. I'm currently employed as an Off-Broadway music director, a music director for a New England liberal arts college, and a freelance performer, orchestrator, and consultant on a regular basis...and I'm only 28 years old. So, much like my experiences preparing for a lifestyle of a performer led me towards a career on the other side of the casting table, this article also serves as a prelude.
In my upcoming articles, I hope my perspective as a performer-turned-music director/coach will help guide actors approaching this industry. I'll share my experiences from conducting auditions, participating in coaching experienced professionals and beginners alike, music directing productions from the top commercial levels on down, and mentorship by seasoned experts in the field. My goal is to help you understand what the mysterious people on the other side of the table are thinking, and how to approach them, and your career in an effective and satisfying way. So don't be afraid to ask me the difficult questions! I can't wait to help you find your way through this confusing business.
Eli Zoller
Head of New York Guitar Teachers
Eli Zoller is the Director of New York Guitar Teachers in New York City. Eli enjoys coaching guitar students, as well as numerous performers and actors on performing and auditioning with instruments. His clients have gone on to major success in the film & television industry, as well as in the recording industry and on the Broadway stage.
Why Pitch Matching Is Hard
There is a difference between simple and easy. Something simple can be explained in a few words; something easy can be executed with minimal effort. There are plenty of simple things that are not at all easy. Take running a marathon: you can explain the task in three words - run 26.2 miles - but the execution requires months or years of training.
Forgetting Muscle Memory
Whether you’re working to improve your voice, learning how to play a new instrument, or striving to make the world’s greatest grilled-cheese sandwich, it’s going to take practice...and practice means repetition. The natural human instinct, however, is to move on once something’s been accomplished, and an artist can’t stand being stagnant or still. Yet, the fact remains: improvement requires the diligent and repetitive motions of practicing.
NYVC Welcomes Kacey Velazquez!
Joining the ranks of New York Vocal Coaching will be Kacey Velazquez, our new Associate Vocal Instructor. Get to know about Kacey and her love of music below!