Well,
these magical musical dreams may be closer to home than
we think. For those with no musical background or training,
there is still hope thanks to the concept of The Gift
Of Song, formulated by musician Mike Lane (picture),
based in Perth, Western Australia.
Mike
helps his clients to develop their own songs and even
sing themselves. Lack of musical experience or training
is not a problem. "There's no set procedure, but
it's all about encouraging and confidence building",
he says. "The fact that someone can't sing makes
the gift even more special, and I'd rather they sing,
making it personal than hiring a vocalist in, which
distances the giver from the gift."
However,
while this may sound simpler than reality, Mike Lane
has what it takes to help ordinary folks overcome their
inhibitions and bring out their hidden talents. Mike
has coaching qualifications in two sports disciplines
and three years of experience in coaching junior sports.
"I also have many years experience in providing
training to staff and corporate bodies, through my 10
or so years in middle management in the public service,"
he tells Dhwanii. "I've received a great deal of
training in communication skills, which all come into
play when helping someone do something they've never
done before."
Mike, who is equipped with a Bachelor of Commerce and
a Mensa membership, also has the musical background
essential for a venture of this nature. Mike has been
playing the guitar since 10 years of age. "I've
been playing in bands for the last decade, in many genres;
folk, pop, blues, funk, etc, in both original and cover
outfits." Mike has also been writing for the same
amount of time and has had his work featured in CTV
short films and has also received airplay in Australian
community stations, RTR as well as ABC regional. You
can listen to samples of Mike Lane's work here: http://www.thegiftofsong.com.au/samples.asp
All the instruments in the samples at his website have
been played by Mike himself.
Mike's
studio is essentially, a converted lounge room in his
house. Using the industry standard software for digital
recording, Pro Tools, which he runs on a G4 Macintosh,
Mike's studio is equipped with a Martin 12 string acoustic
guitar, Maton 6 string acoustic guitar, Regal Regulator
steel guitar (dobro), Yamaha S30 Sequencer/keyboard,
Kentucky Mandolin, Fender 5 string bass, Eston 4 string
fretless acoustic bass, Hohner harmonicas and Rodes
NT-1 Condensor microphones. "In terms of equipment,
all leads, stands and other peripheral gear is top line,
purchased and used solely for recording...it's not used
outside my studio," he tells us.
However,
Mike remains flexible to ensure the satisfaction of
his clients. "Depending upon circumstances, gear
can be moved and or hired that would enable the recording
of full bands. I am able to accommodate most requests
if someone wants to play a particular instrument on
a recording, and can get players of violins, accordions,
bagpipes, bouzoukis etc, should the need arise. I use
sequenced drums, primarily as it's far easier than recording
real drums, and many people can't tell the difference...they're
that good. If really pushed, I have an associate with
a MIDI drum kit, which I can enlist." Though Mike
plays in a band, he does the entire Gift Of Song recording
himself. He adds, "if someone wants to play an
instrument themselves, however, I'd encourage them to
do so."
So
we asked Mike how he came upon this idea. "It just
came to me…I wrote a song for my parents, who were
renewing their vows, and at the same time helped a good
friend record one for his sisters wedding, so I put
2 and 2 together, and voila!!"
Dhwanii
wishes this innovative musician the best of luck for
the continued success of The Gift Of Song.
E-zine
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Ever
thought of composing and writing your own wedding song?
Or creating your own family song, or theme music for your
company's corporate presentation? Have you ever fantasised
about presenting your loved one with your own tailor-made
song for your next wedding anniversary?