Junior Places now available, limited tickets left - get in...

20 July 2010

Welcome to our Dream Inc Newsletter our last newsletter before our ticket sales CLOSE! As most of you are aware our Workshops for 2010 will be held in just over a month on the 14th & 15th August at the Parkview Hotel in Melbourne.

There are the last few tickets left and they will only be available until 6th August to register and pay for your place.

Any tickets left without payment from the 7th August 2010, will be forfeited and your place to our workshops for 2010 will no longer be available.

If you are attending the Workshops in 2010 make sure you’re getting your songs ready to sing at the end of day performances! We will be in touch at the start of August with your E-Ticket and details that you will require for the 2 day Workshop.

Remember our team is available if you need any help to get yourself ready for the Workshops, so email us if you have any questions at all!

EXCITING NEWS - JUNIOR DREAM INC SESSIONS NOW AVAILABLE THIS YEAR

Due to overwhelming requests we are ex cited to announce the opening of Junior Workshop sessions at the upcoming Dream Inc Workshops for all students aged 9years to Grade 6.

There will be 2 outstanding junior awards given out after the end of day performances daily chosen by Michael Parisi and Record Company Representatives.

“Many of the Global Superstars have started very young like Gabriella Cilmi, Christina Aguiliera, Justin Timberlake and Brittany Spears and I have personally pushed for the inclusion of the Junior Section at Dream Inc this year.”

David Jaanz

CEO David Jaanz School of Singing

Director Dream Inc Workshops

With a limit of ONLY 25 JUNIOR places available for this August Workshop so register online to secure your position.

HEAR WHAT DAN HANNAFORD, 2009 SONY DEVELOPMENT DEAL WINNER HAS BEEN UP TO

This week we're joined by Dan Hannaford, winner of last year's Dream Inc Development Award from Sony Music. Thanks for joining us Dan.

Q: So Dan, a lot has happened since you attended the Dream Inc Workshops last September. Can you tell us a little about what you have been doing?

A: I have been blessed with the opportunity to travel, perform and record my original songs in a wide variety of settings - last month I played in front of 17,500 people at the NRL footy. I have done over 120 gigs since dream inc, released an EP, received radio airplay, played Byron Bay Bluesfest and met some wonderful people in my travels.

Q: As a winner of the Sony Music development deal , can you tell us a little about what this involved, and how was it to work with the experienced A&R team at Sony?

A: Sony flew me to Sydney and gave me 4 days in their studio to record a demo. I really appreciate Sony for giving me this opportunity to record.

I am still waiting to work with the experienced A&R team at Sony.

Q: You have a new CD out now (congratulations). Can you tell us about who you worked with and where it was recorded?

A: Thank you. The EP "Bootleg" was tracked live in Sony Studio Sydney with in house production by Luke Webb and James Griffiths. The studio and equipment were excellent, but Luke and James were awesome. They made me feel at home and had some great production ideas (they also took me to a cafe near the studio which had "the best" chicken avocado burger ever!) I wanted to try and get the energy of a live gig so we didn't use any tricks or gimmicks, just my heart on my sleeve and a fire in my bones. It features the usual guitar/stompbox/harp as well as some piano overdubs. I’m so proud to have my name on it.

Q: You're consistently writing new songs, in fact there are six new songs on your MySpace page now. Can you tell us about how you approach the song writing process?

A: For me its pretty much all about the lyrics...the music has to compliment what I am saying and the tone I am saying it with. Its very much in the moment (when I get a moment), I keep my eyes and my ears open for things that resonate within me...be it a conversation I hear at the supermarket, dreamy thoughts as I am fishing off the rocks, something I read that jumps out at me or it might be a random dream that I remember in the morning. Songs are everywhere! Essentially song writing is about communication. It is using lyrics, melody, harmony and rhythm to tell a story, express emotions and/or influence a person or people.

Q: In terms of song writing, do you have any tips or advice for someone that is just starting ou t?

A:

1. Listen to heaps of different kinds of music and read books/documentaries

2. Write down/record all your ideas.

3. Be honest...but be careful what you say because often you will eat your words (ask me how I know)

4. Don't worry if it doesn't make sense straight away

5. Be persistent

6. Study the songwriters that you admire

7. Go and watch as much live music as you can

8. Learn about who you are and you will have more conviction in what you write

Q: You're a prolific touring artist, in fact we can count 15 shows in July alone in places spread throughout QLD and NSW. How important do you think it is that artists work on their live show?

A: It depends on what the artists goal is. For me at the moment I'm not on the TV with a fancy film clip, so its my live show that sells my CDS. It's at the gigs that I either connect with a listener or I don't. Often the art of a gig is knowing what song to play when and how to deliver the song - this only comes through experience and learning from mistakes. Evaluate what was good/bad about the gig and why? The listener may like you music but what they are really buying into is you - so try and let them know who you are either through lyric, delivery, presentation or what you say/do between the songs.

Q: It must be difficult to get that elusive and first ever gig. Can you tell us how you did this yourself, and share any tips on how others can get started?

A: It's still difficult to get gigs but it gets easier, the more you do it. Getting the gig is the hardest part - doing the gig is the fun part. The way I got started was I found a local artist who was doing what I wanted to do (i.e. gig fulltime) and asked him how to get a gig. He gave me a list of suitable venues for where I was at and said I could use him as a reference, so that's what I did.

Tips:

1. Ask and keep on asking. Knock and keep on knocking....."you have not because you ask not"

2. It helps if you know a few covers suitable to the demographic of the venue you are trying to get into

3. The phone or face to face contact with the venue (followed by an email) is the most effective way I have found of getting gigs

4. Booking agents generally won't use you until you have got a few gigs under your belt

5. Success is being ready for success. Know your songs inside out and believe in your songs/self. Back yourself!!

Q: What artists inspire you, both domestic and international acts, and why?

A: Domestic - Mason Rack (local blues musician) . Mason was a bricklayer who gave it up for a life as a travelling bluesman. He demonstrated to me that you can be an Aussie musician, make a living from your songs and travel the country/overseas if you keep on keeping on. (He gave me my first solo gig when I was a window cleaner).

A: International - Bob Dylan says so much in such a cool way with pretty much just his voice and his guitar. I used to be so self conscious of my voice. I thought I sounded like a horse jockey and then I heard Bob Dylan sing and I felt if they like him they might like me too.

Q: Just finally, can you tell us your three favourite albums of all time. A short explanation about what you love about them would be great too.

No I can't tell you, because I honestly don't have favourites. I go through different phases and they all mean different things to me and effect the way I write (at the moment i am into John Williamson...he's in my living room day and night). I went through a Bob Dylan phase and Johnny Cash phase and before that was Creedence and before that was Rage Against the Machine. What i love about all these artists and their songs is that they said something that got to me and made me want to do the same for other people.

Big thanks and appreciation Dream Inc

For further information on Dan Hannaford check out his website, or you can catch Dan playing his beautiful and original music live in Northern NSW or South Eastern QLD this July and August.

BE FILMED FOR NATIONAL TV AT THIS YEAR’S WORKSHOP

Last year our sponsor Channel V aired a 30min documentary on Dream Inc, but this year Channel 7’s Today Tonight have been locked in to film the 2 days of the Workshops.

Over the 2 days they will be filming sessions, interviewing artists and interviewing YOU the student for the piece they will be airing the week after the Workshops.

Just think... you could be on national TV by coming to learn at Dream Inc this year!

FIND OUT A LITTLE MORE ABOUT SARAH AARONS WINNER OF THE 2009 APRA DEAN TURNER AWARD

So Sarah, thanks for talking with us. You attended last year's Dream Inc workshops and won the Dean Turner APRA Award, can you tell us about some of the highlights for you?

A: The definite highlights for me were getting into the top ten and of course winning the Dean Turner APRA award. When I first heard that I was in the top ten on the first day of Dream Inc I was so surprised. I did not expect to get in the top ten once let alone twice. It gave me such a large confidence boost.

Were there any speakers at the event that really amazed you?

A: It was amazing to hear from someone as wise and experienced as Seymour Stein. During one of the song writing sessions my friends and I got some advice from Ella Hooper from ‘Killing Heidi’. She spoke to us like we were equal to her and she gave us some really great song writing tips.

We're thrilled to hear that you have already registered to attend the workshops this year. What was the main attraction for you?

A: The exhilarating gospel singing sessions with David Jaanz were amazing and also the opportunity to perform in front of some of the best of Australia’s music business.

Tell us about your experiences with the end of day performances, and how do you cope with the pressure of performing in front of your friends and peers?

A: I was so nervous at the end of day performances though it was very comforting to be performing to a room of such supportive people. Everybody did an amazing job and it wasn’t judgmental at all, it was just fun. After my performances I got some really helpful feedback that gave me more confidence for the following days.

Can you tell us a little more about yourself? What age did you start singing, performing and song writing?

A: I have been singing and performing since I can remember. The first song I wrote was with my brother when I was about six years old. It said that you could be what ever you wanted to as long as you believed in yourself. I started regularly writing songs at the age of 10.

What are your biggest strengths as an artist?

A: I think my song writing is one of my biggest strengths and also my uniqueness as a singer.

And finally, presumably you're always learning to be better at what you do. Do you have any tips for other Dream Inc students on how to stay motivated?

A: Just believe in your self and be true to who you are and keep writing songs whether you like them or not because they are probably a lot better than you think. Keep being inspired and you will inspire others.

Thanks for speaking with us Sarah. We look forward to seeing you again in August for this year’s workshop!

RECORD YOUR DEBUT SINGLE - Boost up Scholarship Prize

With our proud partner Boost we would like to announce a NEW award to be handed out along with our Development Deals “The Boost Up Scholarship Prize”. This is where a lucky participant gets the chance to RECORD THEIR DEBUT SINGLE that will be premiered via Boost and taken to all the record companies for their consideration.

www.boostjuice.com.au

STUDENT PROFILE... MAYA WEISS

So Maya, thanks for talking with us. You attended last year's Dream Inc workshops, can you tell us about some of the highlights for you?

A: Some of the highlights were having that chance to meet people in the music industry and seeing what it would be like if I was in the same situation, songwriting with amazing musicians. Performing for judges and getting to hear the point of view of very important people in the music industry. I have to say one I the best things about dream inc would be having the chance to meet and be around people who want and do the same things as me, it inspired me to become better and this year’s Dream Inc will be amazing.

Were there any speakers at the event that really amazed you?

A: I would actually have to say hearing the stories of the young people doing the same thing as I was amazed me the most, I felt as though I fitted in and I would be accepted no matter what. Hearing how people such as Katie Noonan and Natalie B, came up form nothing and followed and worked towards what they wanted and now are on TV with massive hit songs.

We're thrilled to hear that you have already registered to attend the workshops this year. What was the main attraction for you?

A: To be noticed. I have worked hard on my music and voice this year and I want to get the opportunity to show people my music and work with people in the same situation. Being around so many singers, and song writers made me understand that singing is what I want to do and Dream Inc is an amazing chance to get closer to me dreams.

Tell us about your experiences with the end of day performances, and how do you cope with the pressure of performing in front of your friends and peers?

A: I found the end of day performances the best part, seeing everyone’s talent was so fun. The pressure was hard because there was so many great talents there but I believed in myself and my friends and I think everyone did really well.

Can you tell us a little more about yourself? What age did you start singing, performing and song writing?

A: I have been a singer my whole life, my father is a performer therefore I grew up with music. I have always loved it no matter what music was always there. I always knew what I wanted form life and I never gave up on my hopes, I have always said ‘ I never want to waste my life in an office’ and its true all I want is to have to chance to move people with my voice like others did to me. I write a lot of my own music and record it a fair bit, i enjoy song writing but would also love one day to collaborate with amazing musicians.

What are your biggest strengths as an artist?

A : It would have to be confidence. I always love to get up and have a go no matter how big or small a crowd. I also put a lot of feeling into the words I sing, and I can mostly always hear if my voice ever went in our out of pitch.

And finally, presumably you're always learning to be better at what you do. Do you have any tips for other Dream Inc students on how to stay motivated?

A: All I would have to say is everytime you feel like giving up think of why you sing, do you do it to make yourself happy, or maybe others, or maybe you do it to feel good at something, because no matter who you are , or what you look like, voices touch people and I know that’s why I do it and if I ever feel like giving up I just think of how happy I could make people, and I try harder.

Thanks for speaking with us Maya, we look forward to seeing you at the Workshops in August!

CHECK OUT WHAT IDA MAREE ONE OF OUR TEACHERS FOR 2009 & 2010 DREAM INC HAS TO SAY...

Melbourne based singer, song writer, Ida Maree has been working in the music industry for over twenty years. During this time she has worked on television (Good Morning Australia/regular, Hey, Hey it’s Saturday, IMT, Good Friday Appeal), in theatre and as session vocalist (television, radio jingles, backing and feature vocals). As a solo artist Ida has performed regularly in Sydney, Queensland and Melbourne. Throughout her career Ida has performed with many Australian and International Artists, such as Daryl Braithwaite, Barbara Dickson, The Stylistics, Reba McIntyre, Doug Parkinson, Deborah Byrne and Gary Pinto. Drawing on many years as a vocalist/performer, Ida embraces the opportunity to impart and encourage her students to achieve their full potential, as a vocal coach at the David Jaanz School of Singing. Ida is currently working on her debut Christian album with Phil Turcio (producer/song writer, Grammy Nominee 2008).

So Ida, tell us what are some of the highlights of Dream Inc for you as a teacher?

My initial highlight would definitely have to be witnessing the incredible transformation of participants, while assisting in David Jaanz’s first workshop on day one. Whilst many were eager to commence there were those who were definitely overwhelmed with nerves and intimidation. Before long the atmosphere in the room was one of such confidence and excitement. Everyone left the session so enthusiastic. There was an incredible line up of artists and definitely watching the growth in the development performances over the 3 days was remarkable- such great talent.

Why would you recommend your students to attend Dream Inc?

It is such a unique experience like no other in this country. It’s really a small price to pay for such a priceless opportunity. From the incredible guest speakers to the individual workshops there’s definitely a wealth of experience to draw from over the two days, that will definitely benefit them towards developing their craft .The chance to congregate with people all over the country with a common love for music has such a positive impact. Not to mention the incredible boost to their confidence!

What are you most looking forward to at this year’s workshop?

The atmosphere, it is so inspiring and encouraging for all involved. I look forward to working and meeting with the many talented singers, as part of the vocal warm up team.

What pointers would you give anyone coming to this year’s workshop?

Get excited and not intimidated!! Despite where you’re at , everyone has something to learn. So be expectant , and like a sponge, soak up all you can!!!

On a practical note, try and get a good night sleep (if excitement allows!!), don’t skip breakfast, snack on fruit, as natural sugar is the best sugar fix. Keep hydrated, preferably room temperature water.

Most importantly be the best you can be and have a great time!

For further information or to chat with Ida you can find her on Facebook

2009 DEVELOPMENT DEAL WINNERS

The Dream Inc Music Workshops, with thanks to our key Record Label partners Universal, Sony, EMI and Warner, offer something very different to other music workshops. A select group of aspiring and talented students are the recipients of our Development Deals, whom were chosen after their incredible end-of-day performances at our event in September 2009.

The winners from 2009 have been lucky enough to work with the creative folks at Universal, Sony, EMI and Warner. The Development Deals provided each winner the chance to record their own songs in a proper recording studio, with an experienced engineer and overseen by professional A&R people over a week long period. They will come out of it with a professional demo and invaluable experience and contacts.

Check out what has been happening with our winners from 2009

GET IN NOW & DON’T MISS OUT ON YOUR CHANCE TO BE AT THE WORKSHOPS IN 2010

With the deadline for tickets on Friday 6th August, you don’t have long to snap up those last few places at the Workshop, so get in fast and register now online to be apart of Dream Inc 2010!

See you at the 2010 Workshops!

Michael Parisi, David Jaanz & the Team at Dream Inc