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Sunday, October 28, 2012

“STFDS_8” Pat Battistini, Director/Writer/Producer


I’m proud to call Pat a good friend and highlight him and his upcoming film festival.
“PAT, THE MAN…”
Pat began his career as an actor at the Player’s Workshop of the Second City in Chicago.  He continued working in improvisation and eventually performed in over 500 improv shows.  Pat suffered having to work for Club Med in their Entertainment Department in places such as St. Lucia, Thailand and Tahiti.  Continuing to have fun in Asia, Pat moved to Tokyo where he collaborated with an all Japanese comedy group for a year.  Only making sense, he moved to Miami after his Tokyo gig, where he started his filmmaking career.  Pat finally made his way to Los Angeles in the fall of ’98.
In LA, he has written and produced several short films.  His shorts “Sexy Seniors”, “Braggin’ Rights”, and “Three Specials” have all been nominated to at least one film festival as a finalist to their Grand Jury Award.  “Lincoln Vs. Bush has been viewed over 81,000 times on iFilm.com and has been shown, in controversy, in several other festivals.  His short, “Legs To Stand On”, dealing with the disabled, received a Special Recognition Award at the Los Angeles Italian American Film Awards.
Pat’s current project is his most challenging.  He shot a period piece short film in the northern mountains of Italy.  Not fluent in Italian, Pat decided to shoot the film in the Italian language because he felt his story could only be told using the language of the time.
Pat resides in Santa Clarita with his wife Marnie and his two children, Maggie and Burke. 

 "The All Sports Los Angeles Film Festival is one of the 20 Coolest Film Festivals in the U.S (Moviemaker Magazine 2011)"


You’ll have the wonderful opportunity to meet Pat in person at his 4th Annual “All Sports Los Angeles Film Festival.” It will kick-off Friday, November 9, 2012 at the El Portal Theatre in North Hollywood, CA. 

“We’re here to promote the art of screenwriting and filmmaking in the world of sports and competition.” Pat Battistini

Click here for here for the 2012 Program, 2012 film schedule and zany festival trailer!

For complete FESTIVAL details visit All Sports Los Angeles Film Fesival 
Updates:
@SportsFilmFest
##tfl

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

PAY PAL - Agreement to Arbitrate (Section 14.3)


PayPal NOTICE:
PayPal recently posted a new Policy Update which includes changes to the PayPal User Agreement. The update to the User Agreement is effective November 1, 2012 and contains several changes, including changes that affect how claims you and PayPal have against each other are resolved. You will, with limited exception, be required to submit claims you have against PayPal to binding and final arbitration, unless you opt out of the Agreement to Arbitrate (Section 14.3) by December 1, 2012. Unless you opt out: (1) you will only be permitted to pursue claims against PayPal on an individual basis, not as a plaintiff or class member in any class or representative action or proceeding and (2) you will only be permitted to seek relief (including monetary, injunctive, and declaratory relief) on an individual basis.

I encourage you to review the above mentioned section of the Agreement to Arbitrate and make your own decision.  If you wish to OPT-OUT, this is how you do it: 
RESOLVE:
If you were a PayPal user prior to November 1, 2012 (i.e. registered a PayPal account before that date), to opt out of the Agreement to Arbitrate, you must mail an Opt-Out Notice to PayPal, Inc.,
Attn: Litigation Department,
2211 North First Street,
San Jose, CA 95131.

Your Opt-Out Notice must be postmarked no later than December 1, 2012 .

The Opt-Out Notice must state that you do not agree to the Agreement to Arbitrate and must include your name, address, phone number, and the email address(es) used to log in to the PayPal account(s) to which the opt-out applies. You must also sign the Opt-Out Notice for it to be effective.

Should you need further assistance, you are most welcome to call us at 402-935-2050 or888-221-1161 during these hours:

    * 4:00 AM PT to 10:00 PM PT, Monday–Friday
    * 6:00 AM PT to 8:00 PM PT, Saturday and Sunday
###tfl


Sunday, October 21, 2012

“STFDS_7” Artist, David McKeag


“Without art, the crudeness of reality would be unbearable.”
George Bernard Shaw

David McKeag is a self employed artist. David paints anything from abstract to photo realism/portraits. In addition to this, Davis has a second career as an ACE Certified Personal Trainer. David has been certified since 1994. 

“I strive to be professional and thorough in my approach to any endeavor be it Art or Personal Training. I believe in complete customer satisfaction.”
David McKeag

I train with David at Park East Fitness. It’s a really nice space, fully-equipped that gives me the feel that it’s my own private gym.  David tailors my workout to my body type, age and goals.  We started with a baseline session and each session after that has been designed to build and strengthen. David is firm, focused and results driven.  I get more out of my hour with him then a week on my own at my gym!

As for the artwork, you have to see it in person to fully understand its beauty.  Here’s an on-line peak: http://www.artbydmk.com/.

“In McKeag's abstracts, he stretches and manually manipulates the work in every fashion, hue and texture, making the painting jump off the canvas, Belsito says. The paintings bleed over and "fingers" of color grab and surround the edges of his works.” -Paul Belsito, Owner, Belsito-Roche Gallery

David is scheduled to exhibit at Gallery Expo, November 17-December 7. The theme, “The Art of Debate: Political Images, Statements and Satires.”  This will be a great opportunity to meet David and see his work. 

For more information regarding the training:
David has been an ACE Certified Personal Trainer since 1994.

Additional background information:

You may also find David on LINKEDIN and FACEBOOK
###tfl


Sunday, October 7, 2012

"STFDS_6” Catherine Stanley & Hettie Lynne Hurtes

“STFDS_6” Catherine Stanley & Hettie Lynne Hurtes

The goal of STFDS is to highlight something or someone that makes life as an Actor, Voice Over Artist, and/or human being a little easier and alot more fun!

Many years ago (~1998) I was introduced to these two wonderfully talented and dedicated women through my good friend and fellow actor/singer Laurel Jones.  What a lucky introduction for me!

Drama West was founded in 1997 by Catherine Stanley and Hettie Lynne Hurtes.  To this day, Catherine is the Artistic Director/Producer and Hettie is Co-Producer/Casting. 

Drama West is a 'not-for-profit' gathering of Writers, Directors & Actors with a love for live performance. Drama West presents original one-act plays written by local playwrights and featuring local actors. Occasionally, audiences are treated by Special Guests performances from folks like (examples and not all inclusive –visit FB page):
https://www.facebook.com/tenwestcomedy (Jon Monastero/Stephen Simon)
http://karenandalan.com/ (Alan and Karen Chapman)
Finally, the DW Program usually closes with a film screening.

Thanks to Catherine and Hettie countless Playwrights, Actors and Filmmakers have been given an LA stage and screen to showcase their talent.  It is for this reason I highlight and THANK YOU both.

Drama West Productions
ALWAYS WANTED: PLAYWRIGHT AND ACTORS!
Check it out both on-line and in person! Please join the cast, crew and friends at Taix Restaurant after the show… it’s a friendly group! 

Catherine and Hettie: SNAPSHOTS:
I encourage you to click on the links and enjoy learning more about these two dynamic ladies!

Catherine Stanley, Producer, Writer, Editor

Catherine’s film, “Center Street Rising” was the winner Audience Award Best Documentary Newport Beach Film Festival 2009 and the Official selection Orlando Film Festival November 2009.

Synopsis:
An inner city boxing club in Santa Ana changes young lives, countering a destructive influence of gangs, crowded schools, poverty and blight.

Catherine has many new projects in the works for 2012.

Hettie Lynne Hurtes, Broadcast Journalist, Writer, Actor
On-air host at KPCC Radio 83.9FM

CRN Digital Talk – very recent interview!
http://www.ustream.tv/new/search?q=hettie%20lynne%20hurtes&type=all (8:59) (3:24 – Hettie’s wedding story!)

# # #tfl

Sunday, September 30, 2012

“STFDS_5”: Tim Keenan and Sylvia Aimerito


Today is a double-header presentation because l was unable to post last Sunday.  Last Sunday I was playing the role of Jason Reed (Standardized Patient) for Kaplan.

This Sunday I’m highlighting Mr. Tim Keenan and Ms. Sylvia Aimerito. I had the very good fortune of studying with the both of them this past month at Creative Media Recording in Cypress, CA.

Tim is the Operations Direction/Engineer at Creative Media Recording.  Here’s a snapshot: http://www.creativemediarecording.com/staff.asp#tim Please visit his company’s website as it details all its services, amenities and accomplishments: http://www.creativemediarecording.com/  You may also say hello and follow Tim on Twitter @tjkeenan and @Soundtrack_pro


Sylvia is the Owner/Creative Director of AudioGirl Productions. Here’s a snapshot: http://audiogirlproductions.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Sylvia-Aimerito-Web-Bio-2012.pdf I encourage you to visit her company’s website as it too details all its services, amenities and accomplishments: http://audiogirlproductions.com/ Say hello and follow Sylvia on Twitter @sylviaaimerito and @audiogirlpro

I’m highlighting this dynamic duo because they are very good at what they do. What sets them apart is their passion for teaching and mentoring those who want to start or excel in Voice Over.

It does not get any better than being taught by two working and seasoned professionals in the studio. I’d love to detail all that happened in class but NO-WAY! Instead get on their mailing lists and experience it for yourself first hand…you will be very glad you did.

# # #
tfl

Sunday, September 16, 2012

“STFDS_4 “ Brandi Ford, Actor, Writer, Producer


The goal of my Shut The Front Door Sunday series is to highlight something or someone that makes life as an Actor, Voice Over Artist, and/or human being a little easier and alot more fun!

May I present: Brandi (Ford) Payne:
Actress, Writer, Producer
Wife and Mom
Friend
Mentor
Leader

I first met Brandi at the Actors Network in 2011. I was new to her Powergroup and did I luck-out when I was paired with her as a “powerbuddy.”  At our first offsite buddy meeting I met a smart, focused, energetic woman with direction and purpose. We got right down to business, did our shares, set our goals and set a date for meeting #2. 

Brandi is not new to being a successful Actor, Writer or Producer. For example, her first web series project (“Diary of A Wedding Planner”) was very successful. She’s also a blogger, Social Media guru and is a writer/producer at Rainy Day Bliss Entertainment.

I’m very excited about Brandi’s latest project, “Missing” which has just advanced to the second and final round of judging for participation in the Sundance Institute’s prestigious  2013 Screewriters Lab.

“Missing” the trailer is mesmerizing.
Written by Brandi Ford
Produced by Brandi Ford & Tara Tomicevic

Like (Missing on Facebook) and follow @MissingTheMovie on Twitter to keep up to speed on “Missing’s” progress and needs

So a year later our friendship and professional relationship remains strong. Day in/day out I’ve experience first-hand Brandi’s willingness to lead, mentor, share and support her colleagues and friends.  BRANDI makes life as an Actor, Voice Over Artist, and/or human being a little easier and alot more fun and that is why Brandi is my “STFDS_4!”

I really encourage you to read through the various links below to get a better understanding of the breadth and scope Brandi’s talent and projects:
###
tfl


Sunday, September 9, 2012

"STFDS_3" - David H. Lawrence XVII

Today's highlight is of my friend David H. Lawrence XVII.  I first met David at The Actors Network (TAN) and I knew immediately how lucky I was to have crossed his path.

Shortly after our coffee meeting I started VO lessions with him and became a VO2GOGO Pro Member.  So impressed with his teaching style and product, I hired David to produce my Commercial VO Demo - VERY PLEASED!

Snapshot of David
(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_H._Lawrence_XVII)

David Harvard Lawrence XVII is an American television and film actor, voice talent, network radio host, Internet entrepreneur, podcaster, demo producer, teacher and author, best known for his role as The Puppetmaster on NBC's sci-fi series Heroes. He was also the host of the daily The David Lawrence Show and weekend Online Tonight, both nationally syndicated radio talk shows that revolved around pop culture and the high-tech lifestyle.
The "XVII" in his name was a way for Lawrence to distinguish himself from previous David Lawrences already registered with SAG. At the time, he was the 17th David Lawrence listed on IMDB, and appended the number to his name upon his own registry.
I'm highlighting David because he is very good at what he does and very generous with his working knowledge.  David is also the first to lend words of advice when you've become overwhelmed by this crazy business. 
There's so much more to David and I invite you to visit his webpage.......until you can meet him in person!

Sunday, September 2, 2012

Just joined LA CASTING!


I AM READY TO BE CAST!
http://www.lacasting.com/TOMFLEARY


"STDFS_2" ACTORS ACCESS


“STFDS_2”
(RE: Sunday, August 26, 2012 – STFDS first post)

In my continuing “STFDS” series I want to tell you about ACTORS ACCESS (It’s all about control) /SHOWFAX.  (http://www.actorsaccess.com/)

What is AA?

I’ve been with AA for a year now and have had access to countless auditions (on-camera and voice-over).  I’ve also been able to enhance my AA on-line presence by adding a video and VO commercial track.

When they say, “It’s all about control” they mean your control. You are able to upload and maintain your profile (24/7). To save time, you are able to target audition searches and notices based on the filters you select. (Yes, they email you when audition notices that fit your criteria become available.)

Actors Access: reliable (24/7), reasonably priced and very nice folks to work with.

Check them out!
tfl
# # #

Monday, August 27, 2012

Forbes Magazine and I on same page!

Yesterday, my very first #STFDS shout out was to Pat Flynn (Smart Passive Income).  This morning I read that Forbes Magazine has him on their TOP10 list! 

10 Leaders Who Aren't Afraid to Be Transparent

http://www.forbes.com/sites/johnhall/2012/08/27/10-leaders-who-arent-afraid-to-be-transparent/

Forbes and I on the "same page" ..................
CONGRATS PAT!

Sunday, August 26, 2012

#STFDS_1 "Smart Passive Income" Pat Flynn

As promised, my first #STFDS (Shut The Front Door Sunday) highlight:

After updating my social media sites I've begun looking at creating an "Actor" FB page. This way I can separate, or try to separate, work and play.  As I was researching "How to create a Facebook Page" I came across Mr. Pat Flynn on YouTube. 

As a non-technical guy I find him extremely helpful. He shows you how to do this step-by-step at a very reasonable pace.  No "techie" approach......... just conversational. 

As my very first #STFDS, I present to you Mr. Pat Flynn and Smart Passive Income
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=27QnH7XpOW0
https://www.facebook.com/#!/smartpassiveincome

For those of you who are more seasoned - check out:
http://www.smartpassiveincome.com/

Have a great week!

DANG...... no reset button

It was pointed out by a good friend and savvy social media expert that white text on a black background doesn't really work on mobile applications. So......... my color scheme, white text on black background needed to be changed.  Argh...... an hour + later I think I'm done.

Well, the glass half full on this exercise is it made me explore and investigate more editing options.

Next I have to tackle how to get my blog to load automatically on Google reader.......

Saturday, August 25, 2012

#STFDS

Twitter has #FF so I'm starting #STFDS (Shut The Front Door Sundays)!

Each Sunday I will share with you an industry related "FIND" Something or someone that makes life as an Actor/Voice Over Artist/human being a little easier and alot more fun.

Suggestions, links, topics ALWAYS welcome.
-Tom

"Social Media .......newbie..."

In my day "NETWORKING" meant face-to-face conversation over drinks and appetizers.  If things were going really well......... perhaps dinner! 

Well it's 2012 and I've been introduced to OMG, WTF and being somewhat defined by my KLOUT score?????  MMmmmmm .......... well this old dog can be taught the new tricks!

So, here I go:

TOM F LEARY
(562) 522-1986

(I have secured TOMFLEARY.COM but come on-one major leep at a time!)

Voice Over and Demo Reels uploaded



Twitter: @TomFLeary
(Just passed 250 followers which I'm told that makes me "followable.") 

Next, I'm creating my Facebook Actor Page.
(I think I'm developing carpel tunnel...)

“What have you been doing?” (Proverbial elephant in the room):

I'm a returning on-camera/commercial actor.  Sometimes at interviews/auditions I'm asked, "What have you been doing?" I only wish I had a retina cam to show you the look on the face of the person asking.  What to do?

A friend and industry expert suggested that until I'm able to fill up my resume with credits that I should just address the "elephant" in the room on it. 
Here's the full version:

I was promoted and transferred to California in 1983 to sell nuts, bolts, screws and washers….metric thread that is! My first thought, “Divine Intervention.” After settling in at the nuthouse I started auditioning for musical groups to regain my creative sanity.  After several auditions I was hired as a tenor/baritone for the group Tuxedo Junction (TJ). After TJ and several years of musical theatre I gave up slinging nuts and bolts and started taking acting classes. After graduating from the South Coast Repertory Professional Acting Conservatory I joined both SAG& AFTRA. I was on my way! Then nothing, nada, zilch! To survive I started working in municipal government and earned an early retirement release in 2009 for good behavior.  My last civic duty was as the campaign manager for a good friend running for city council.  In 2010 my friend lost but I won.  “I’m back!”

Now I have to compress this to two or three sentences for the resume! 

"COMEDY LOVES CONTROVERSY!"


Group leader loses control.......
(Please "Click here" to watch!)

My first demo reel!
Please share..............................

"Chik-Fil-AA - Hunger Games"

"CHIK FIL-AA - HUNGER GAMES"

A support group for liberals that love Chick-fil-A that goes very awry.
(Please "Click HERE" to view video)

Group Leader - Tom F. Leary / Lemonade - Brie Eley / So Good - Torie Tyson / Waffle Fries - Adam Michael Rose / Breakfast Sandwich - Kim Rivas / Still Warm - Josh Caso / Pickles - Ashleigh Pannell Johnson / Give Me That - Julienne Irons / Choices - Jon Eiswerth / Historian - Charisse Woodall

Special Thanks - Hollywood Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Wolfie Trausch, Tina Fey Music: Http://www.freemusicforvideos.com / Production Designer - Josh Caso / Camera Operator, Superstar - Jill Killington / Produced By - Marele Entertainment / Writer, Editor, Director - Brie Eley

Sunday, February 12, 2012

Brittany Fay, DEBUT: “When Daisies Bloom”

Some time ago a very good friend invited me to attend Brittany’s concert.  Out of curiosity I searched for Brittany on the web and was instantly impressed:

“My name is Brittany Fay Amsler. I am a singer-songwriter. I am a storyteller. It’s just that simple.”

“I found that the best way I express how I feel is by songwriting. That’s when my heart sings and my fingers dance.”


After viewing her website and listening to the songs from the debut album I ventured over to YouTube to watch her music videos.  What a surprise!  The Brittany Fay music videos show that this artist is not only a good singer but actress, creative director, film maker and producer.

Then I decided to contact Brittany about an interview for my blog. An interview……hmmmm…I thought to myself how would I describe Brittany to my blog friends?  The first words that came to mind were fresh, singer, cute, quirky and very spirited.  Then I thought, “Hello, why not let Brittany tell her own story!”

So, Brittany and I exchanged several emails and she graciously completed my interview questionnaire.  What I discovered is that this young lady is grounded, surrounded by a loving and supportive family and VERY talented.

Here are a few highlights from the interview:

For many of my readers this will be the first time that they will be reading about you so why not say hello and tell us a little bit about yourself?
I’m a singer-songwriter, currently trying to pass my classes and graduate from Concordia University Irvine. I’ve been creating since I could remember, whether it be with pen and paper, glue and tape, paint and canvas, or camera and computer keyboard. Although I wasn’t interested in learning to play classical piano as a teen, I did enjoy composing my own music by ear. About four years ago, I combined my writing talents with my music, and discovered songwriting.
After eight months of labor and care, I will be releasing my debut album of eleven original songs to the public February 19th at my Senior Concert.

Do you have a Senior Project “Ah Ha” moment to share?
Yes. “Ah ha! I’ve bit off more than I can chew!”

Lightning round…all related to your music and creation of this album…..really brief answers please,
BIGGEST:
Surprise—the support
Challenge—the recording process
Frustration—the business
Fear—there’s a lot of them, but I’m constantly telling myself it’s God will, not mine.
Smile moment—the finished album
Fan—my Mom. Every time I would come home from the studio with another recorded track and play it for her, she would say, “Oh! That’s my favorite!” And I mean every time. Every song.

Lightning round #2……through Brittany’s eyes……one word,
FAVORITE:
Musical artist(s)? I listen to a lot of Ingrid Michaelson, Missy Higgins, Amos Lee, Jon McLaughlin, Adele, Sara Bareilles, Jason Reeves, Needtobreathe, oh the list goes on. I listen to alot of film composers too. Sorry, that wasn’t a one word answer. I’ll try harder.
Heals or sandals? Sandals
Color?  Green
Musical instrument (s)? There’s something about a cello that just melts my insides.
Pastime?  Yoga, reading and writing stories, barefoot running, cooking with friends
Pet? When I was little? Do Gigapets count? Or beany babies? Or furbies? Can you tell I grew up in the 90’s? I’m not doing so well with this whole one word answer thing, am I? 
Movie? If I’m ever sick, I’ll plop in Pride and Prejudice.
Food? I’ve been struggling with several food intolerances, so my variety is limited. I haven’t had a birthday cake for years, but this year I found a recipe online that is completely gluten free, lactose free, and uses beans instead of flour. I know, sounds gross. But it was delicious!!
Book series? Chronicles of Narnia

Your Debut album goes on sale this month.  How excited you are about that?
My whole senior year has been devoted to the production of this album. These songs tell a story about a part of my life when I was struggling against my worst symptoms, and how I finally found hope, joy and love. I’ve spent a lot of time and money designing the album artwork, including back stories for each song so the listener can follow my journey. So yes, I’m excited to share my work. I’m overflowing with excitement!

Well my friends, there’s much more to Brittany and her music and I hope to see as many of you as possible at her debut concert on February 19, 2012.  Then just think that someday you’ll be able to say, “I was at her debut concert………”


The complete interview, in her own words:

For many of my readers this will be the first time that they will be reading about you so why not say hello and tell us a little bit about yourself?
I’m a singer songwriter, currently trying to pass my classes and graduate from Concordia University Irvine. I’ve been creating since I could remember, whether it be with pen and paper, glue and tape, paint and canvas, or camera and computer keyboard. Although I wasn’t interested in learning to play classical piano as a teen, I did enjoy composing my own music by ear. About four years ago, I combined my writing talents with my music, and discovered songwriting.
After eight months of labor and care, I will be releasing my debut album of eleven original songs to the public February 19th at my Senior Concert.
What brought you to music?
Two moments stand out.
One: My Dad telling us that no matter what instrument we wanted to play, we had to know how to play piano first.
Two: My Aunt Holly came to visit from Australia one year. She sat me down one evening, played guitar and sang songs from Joni Mitchell’s album, Blue. It was then that I learned there was more to music than most of the fluff I heard on the radio.
How do you go about the writing process (lyrics and music)?
I use a recorder. I usually get ideas while I’m driving. Or in the middle of class. Or when I’m grocery shopping. So I’ll record them and then revisit them later when I’m at the piano.

Let’s have some fun:
Lightning round…all related to your music and creation of this album…..really brief answers please:
Biggest surprise—the support
Biggest challenge—the recording process
Biggest frustration—the business
Biggest fear—there’s a lot of them, but I’m constantly telling myself it’s God will, not mine.
Biggest smile moment—the finished album
Biggest fan—my Mom. Every time I would come home from the studio with another recorded track and play it for her, she would say, “Oh! That’s my favorite!” And I mean every time. Every song.
Lightning round #2……through Brittany’s eyes……one word:
Favorite musical artist(s)?
I listen to a lot of Ingrid Michaelson, Missy Higgins, Amos Lee, Jon McLaughlin, Adele, Sara Bareilles, Jason Reeves, Needtobreathe, oh the list goes on. I listen to alot of film composers too. Sorry, that wasn’t a one word answer. I’ll try harder.
Heals or sandals? Sandals
Favorite color? Green
Favorite musical instrument (s)? There’s something about a cello that just melts my insides.
Favorite pastime?  Yoga, reading and writing stories, barefoot running, cooking with friends
Favorite pet? When I was little? Do Gigapets count? Or beany babies? Or furbies? Can you tell I grew up in the 90’s? I’m not doing so well with this whole one word answer thing, am I? 
Favorite movie? If I’m ever sick, I’ll plop in Pride and Prejudice.
Favorite food? I’ve been struggling with several food intolerances, so my variety is limited. I haven’t had a birthday cake for years, but this year I found a recipe online that is completely gluten free, lactose free, and uses beans instead of flour. I know, sounds gross. But it was delicious!!
Favorite book series? Chronicles of Narnia
Are you surprised by the business/marketing side of the business? Do you have a team in place?
Ha, no, I wish. I handle all the business/marketing/production myself. This is what takes up a lot of my time. It’s like another part time job.
Do you ever get stage fright? How do you deal with it?
I love performing and sharing my music so much that I can get a little too excited.  You can tell I’m excited if I’m talking fast, or my voice is quivering, or if I’m breathless. I don’t really get stage fright though. I wish I had a stage fright cure I could tell you, like jumping jacks while spinning in circles or drinking water upside down while humming the national anthem. But I got nothing.
What were some of the rules/guidelines for this Senior Project?
The student combines two or more art forms and presents their project at the end of their last semester.
I understand you might be the first Humanities major at Concordia to do a program like this? How does it feel to be opening doors for future artists?
I’m not sure if Concordia likes that I’m doing all this, but they seem to be tolerating it. Either that, or they are kind of confused why I’m doing such an extensive project. I think normally, students will just write a term paper and call it a day. Only Music majors have what they call “Senior Recitals.” Hopefully future Humanities majors will take this opportunity and do something that will help them in their career after graduation, whether it’s in the arts or not.
Do you have a Senior Project “Ah Ha” moment to share?
Yes. “Ah ha! I’ve bit off more than I can chew!”

Who came up with the video content and who produced/edited it?
I directed and edited Rainbows On My Shoulders. It was supposed to have a home-made video feel to it. But for Honey Harmony Bee, I worked with a film student named Hoku Brown. I came up with ideas, organized the shoots, drew out the story, and Hoku was in charge of filming and editing.
Your Debut album goes on sale this month.  How excited you are about that?
My whole senior year has been devoted to the production of this album. These songs tell a story about a part of my life when I was struggling against my worst symptoms, and how I finally found hope, joy and love. I’ve spent a lot of time and money designing the album artwork, including backstories for each song so the listener can follow my journey. So yes, I’m excited to share my work. I’m overflowing with excitement!
Do you have a favorite song on the album?  If so, which one and why?
Probably Rainbows On My Shoulders because that song marks the turning point in my healing process. I wasn’t feeling as weak anymore.
If you could change anything about the album what would it be?
I was crunched for time since I had to finish recording and mixing the master by December. But I feel like the imperfections have shaped this piano-vocal album into something more personal and relatable for the listener.
Tell us what we should expect at your debut concert on 2/19?
Pure skill from Kenny James Gohn on guitar, Howard McBride on bass, Paul Nguyen on piano, Stephen Amsler on drums, Robyn Marie Cornish on ukelele and back up vocals, and Gretchen Sheetz on backup vocals. It’s one thing to write music by oneself, and it’s another to hear that music brought to life by other musicians. It’s truly magical.
What does your family think of all this?
My family is very supportive, and very logical.  So I might hear, “I’m so impressed” followed by “I hope you have a plan B.”
Any advice you’d like to share with those trying to break into the music writing/recording business?
Learn the most you can about the music business. Not necessarily specifics, but at least get an idea of what you’re getting yourself into.
What’s next for Brittany?
Passing my classes and graduating college.

Anything you would like to add?
February 19th Sunday 7PM
CU Center, Concordia University Irvine (Seats over 250)
Admission is free
CD’s will be on sale for $15

DEBUT ALBUM (with my favorite lyric highlighted):
When Daisies Bloom
            “Mend my story, make my ending happy………..”
Tell Me I’m Beautiful
            “Gotta trust what I know, Make mistakes on my own….”
Hold Tight
            “You’re free to be, Don’t you hear me?........”
Freedom
“But if you listen and trust Me, then you would see, with My hand you are complete, You are free………”
Look At The Birds
            “Where’s that place that was safe for mistakes……..”
Hello Sun
            “Where’s that light of mine where I’m perfectly fine, Hello Sun…..”
Fort of Stone
            “He climbed over my walls and shook my senses………”
Waltz Out Of Time
            Two left fee, but he doesn’t care……….”
Blush
            “Three years later and I still blush when he says my name…..”

And my favorite:
“See I’ve forgotten, how to live,  how to live in color, With rainbows on my shoulders………”

That's a wrap........... thanks Brittany!
  # # #tfl