Don Martin

Sorry - straight voice only. Can inflect words and phrases if the project requires (recorded book dialogue, etc.) but I leave the character work to those who have a knack for it.

My range of experience has focused on making information sound interesting. Tons of commercials, of course, but I particularly enjoy documentaries and informational pieces because you're not only telling the client's story, but having to engage the listener over a longer period of time than a "sell" piece. Info/doc clients have included many international corporations; commercials and promos too numerous to mention. Also worked for five years as a books-on-tape narrator for the Braille Institute in Los Angeles. My company name, auOral Communications, is a combination of "Oral" for speaking and "aural" for hearing. Company motto: "Hear what's being said!" Music has always been my teacher for proper use of voice. As a recording voice you "sing" the script with inflection and emphasis. (Music degree studies at Drake University, Des Moines, Iowa) Began speaking career as a live stage emcee in variety entertainment in Seattle. Progressed to radio & tv hosting for NBC affiliate (KING) in Seattle; performed for several years as Bob Barker's sub-host for Miss USA-Miss Universe pageants, and as his announcer on the CBS pageant telecasts. The move to Los Angeles continued my experience as special events host (Disneyland park events, corporate galas & trade shows). Wrote and voiced the Westside Community Report on KABC TalkRadio for several years, in addition to a wide range of V/O work for commercials and info pieces. Sidebar: Also a bass singer for five years with the Grammy-nominated jazz vocal group the L. A. Jazz Choir. Currently do V/O work for internet clients and producers across the Coachella Valley (Palm Springs area). Host a weekly TV show here called "Desert Entertainment This Week". E-V 27ND mic; Mackie mixer; Mini-disc & CD co-axial and optical capabilities. I learned my V/O and studio chops in the "knobs & dials" era, which the above equipment represents. But I am also a Mac addict with new iMac & iBook with computer studio system. Broadband Time-Warner internet connection. I have written my own material as emcee, special events host and radio & tv host for 30 years. I write and produce a local live performance show on a monthly basis, in addition to my weekly tv show. Due to my own professional schedule, I would prefer to have a finished script from the client; but my background shows that I will be an eagle-eyed proofreader, and that I know the difference between good copy and just a bunch of words.