How fun would it be to sit down for an hour with the associate musical director on American Idol for 16 seasons? SO FUN! You’re in for a treat, because my guest on the Hometown to Hollywood podcast is Michael Orland. Michael is a pianist, arranger, vocal coach, and musical director, and yes—is best known for his work for 16 seasons on American Idol.
We talk about passion, music, fame, vocal coaching, American Idol, what’s truly important for success in the entertainment industry (it’s not what you think!) and so much more. Kristin Chenoweth's ears are probably burning because she comes up a number of times. :)
Some of my favorite quotes from our conversation:
• “You have to have a work ethic in this business.”
• “I worked in piano bars from 9pm to 4am, six nights a week.”
• “The biggest thing I do as a coach, and especially on American Idol, is to build confidence in people.”
• “You can have five notes in your range. If you can make me feel something, then you’re perfect.”
• “When you do the work it pays off.”
• “You have to find out who you are.”
• “The challenging thing is to help people find their own voice.”
• “You have to be a team player. Everyone has to get along with you.”
• “The most beautiful thing to see is a performer who’s not selfish, and just acknowledges everybody.”
• “Know what you can control, and the rest is out of your hands.”
• “There are so many ways to get in the door now… you can do anything and be anything and go viral.”
• “It makes my heart warm and gives me goose bumps when I see parents that are supportive of their kids.”
• “Having confidence in that audition room is everything.”
Follow Michael Orland HERE:
Twitter: @michaelorland
Instagram: @michaleorland
Broadway Theatre Project
Michael’s story reminds us that a passionate person with a dream can create an amazing life if they pursue that dream with faith and drive.
If you want some guidance on how to get started building an acting career, consider investing in a consultation with me over Skype or in person in LA. In just one session, you can get peace of mind and a detailed action plan.
Remember: the future belongs to those who believe in their dreams.
Ep 75: College Audition Program, Sarah Gaboury
Ep 74: Chandler Kinney, Actress
Ep 73: Thomas Doherty, Actor
Ep 72: Marnie Cooper, Acting Coach
Ep 71: Mackenzie Hancsicsak of This is Us
Ep 70: Raegan Revord, Actress
Ep 69: Michelle Danner, Acting Coach
Ep 68: Ariana Greenblatt, Actress
Ep 67: Booboo Stewart Update, part 2 of 2
Ep 66: Booboo Stewart Update, part 1 of 2
Ep 65: Zak Barnett, Acting Coach, Founder of Zak Barnett Studios
Encore: Dove Cameron (Episode 29)
Ep 64: Carol Goldwasser, Casting Director
Ep 63: Daryn Simons, Talent Manager, Producer, & Casting Director
Ep 62: Colleen Broomall, Founder YSBnow & Former Child Actor
Ep 61: Melanie Paxson
Ep 60: Cameron Boyce, part 2 of 2
Ep 59: Cameron Boyce: Actor, part 1 of 2
Ep 58: Paul Becker, Choreographer, Director
Ep 57: Jessica Rhoades, Producer
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