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Spencer Artist Development
About
Spencer Artist Development – James Spencer
Private lessons are offered online (USA) and limited in-studio (Long Beach, CA) in 45, 60, and 90-minute sessions.
James specializes in working with intermediate to advanced students preparing for careers in the arts, while also welcoming dedicated beginners. US students only, 18 and older.
Subjects Offered:
Acting: Method, Classical, Improv, Dialects, Comedy, Movement for Actors, Scriptwriting
Voiceover & Voice Acting: Commercial VO, Animation, Audiobooks, AI Character Development, Dialects
Modeling: Portfolio building, Posing, Editorial, Runway (Men 16+)
Music: Vocal (all genres), Piano (Classical & Jazz – advanced artists), Violin/Fiddle, Music Theory, Composition/Songwriting, Arranging, Music History
Artist Development: Available by successful audition, including professional guidance for portfolios, auditions, and industry preparation.
James combines decades of professional experience as a performer, recording artist, concert pianist, and educator to deliver results-driven, industry-ready training.
Specialties
Years experience
No formal training, No formal training; some self-taught experience, 0 – 2 years experience, 2 – 4 years experience, 4+ years of experience
Able to read music
Student can read music, Student cannot read music
Lesson length
30 minutes, 45 minutes, 60 minutes
Student's age
11 – 13 years old, 14 – 18 years old, 19 – 25 years old, 26 – 45 years old, 46 – 65 years old, Over 65 years old
Student has instrument
Students who have a piano, Students who have a keyboard
Interested musical styles
Classical, Jazz, Pop, I can make recommendations
Photos and videos
Reviews
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dora S.
Mr. Spencer is an excellent acting coach for me and my daughter. He has taught us via online lessons for 9 months.
But of us are beginners but we have excelled and are mastering acting quickly. Mr. Spencer is a vastly knowledgable, professional, encouraging instructor. My daughter was cast as Anne in her schools production of Diary of Anne Frank, which to me is just amazing. I have call backs myself for a role in a play at my local community theatre.
Mr. Spencer is helping us realize are dreams, and to cultivate our passions. I highly recommend him.
May 21, 2023
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charles C.
Im a 74 year old retired man. I have always loved acting but have had some minor challenges due to bad eye sight and Im not that computer savvy.
Jim helped me learn how to use an I-pad my grand daughter gave me to help me expand fonts to read scripts. Though Im only doing this so far for a hobby, I can see huge improvement in my ability to memorize scripts and act convincingly.
Jim encouraged me to audition for the community senior centers drama club. I couldnt believe it I got right in and enjoying meeting new people (Im widowed). Jim has been a Godsend.
Im finding new joy and Im enjoying seeing local theatre productions. I appreciate his kind, patient, and professional matter. Acting lessons with Jim is what got me through the horrible isolation during Covid quarantine.
He is also incredibly knowledgable on health such as veganism, breathing/meditation and is encouraging me to get into a healthier lifestyle.
My voice/sinuses improved after giving up dairy. I used to get chronic sinusitis. So I feel acting has been beneficial to my overall health.
Though Jim is pricier than other teachers in the area... I believe you pay for what you get. The extra money I pay is well worth it. The two other acting coaches I used before Jim...were mediocre and treated me like an invalid. Jim continues to inspire me to be the best I can be in all areas of my life. I consider him a good friend and he is one of the best educators out there.
April 26, 2023
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julia L.
Jimmy is an incredible acting coach. He is helping me to build my portfolio quickly. His huge database of scripts/monologues has saved me countless hours searching for material so I can get right into the deep acting work.
He makes method so simple and I feel I really think about my characterizations. His additional tutorial videos are so helpful through the week. He is also helping me to understand strategies for the industry such as how to focus on only specific jobs from Backstage. Im blown away that in only about 4 month of study I have already booked my first movie and I just got call backs for a play.
I have started in the University of West London grades with Jimmy and they are opening up to a new world of classic plays, Shakespeare and more. Since university degrees in the US are so expensive, Im considering doing the UWL degree program with him after I graduate high school.
Jimmy is nothing but encouraging and inspiring. I couldnt ask for a better coach.
April 26, 2023
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laura J.
Mr. Spencer is an incredible musical theatre vocal coach. I have studied with him for 2 years and originally came to study when I was cast in as Fiona in my high school production of Shrek. I had very little skills reading music though I have always had a good ear.
Mr. Spencer gave me the most amazing exercises to help my voice improve quickly. He stresses the importance of breathing, diction and placement. Though I was very resistant because I always found music theory complicated... he helped me with that and within about 6 months I was reading much better.
Mr. Spencer (though I was really intimidated) encouraged me to participate in a Musical Theatre Summer Camp program. And I ended up having the most amazing trip to NYC and meeting new people.
By the way Mr. S is connected on Broadway and I was shocked how many celebs he knows or has worked with.
I just got cast as the lead in Thoroughly Modern Millie and having a ball.
If you want a masterful, caring encouraging teacher. Mr. S is your guide. He always tells me See you Laura at your first Tony Award. Now I believe that might be a possibility some day. I have already applied to NYU and CSUF here in Cal. Mr. Ss alma mater.. with a fantastic musical theatre program.
Mr. S is so exceptional!
April 22, 2023
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dev R.
James Spencer is by far in my opinion one of the best acting coaches and artist developers in LA Industry. He teaching acting, voiceover and musical theatre.
I came to him as a complete beginner and within only 9 months Im now professional booking roles in theatre and have down 2 movies, 3 student films and commercial work.
James is an encouraging and relaxed teacher that teaches both out of his studio (Long Beach area) and online. I enjoy the relaxed atmosphere at his beautiful beach front acting studio.
He stresses the business of acting from the very beginning. I have studied method, classical/Shakespeare, improv, dialects, character analysis, scene studies and more.
James has a talent for finding the right materials for his students. He took a lot of the stress out of it for me. ALL MATERIALS ARE INCLUDED. He charges a a one time registration fee of about $50 dollars and that fee include all pdf text books, scripts, and access to his vast digital library on 1000s of plays, musical theatre scores. He makes it so easy. NO having to spend lots of money on research and books.
James stresses the business. He helped me with headshots, demo reels, designing a beautiful web portfolio for me and using his contacts to connect me to the right auditions (instead of just blindly auditioning on Backstage for anything).. and connected me with agents.
I couldnt recommend him more! He is a good friend and teacher that truly cares about the success of his students.
April 21, 2023
DR
dev R.
James Spencer is by far the a super acting coach and artist developer. I have been a student of his now for over 3 years.
I started as a beginner in acting and within only about 9 months I have performed lead roles in community theatre, booked commercials and film work.
James is the so vastly knowledgable, easy going and relaxed. I enjoy going to his comfortable, luxurious home studio for lessons. He has taught me method acting, classical acting and Shakespeare, dialects, improv and I have greatly expanded my knowledge of playwrights and best plays/roles for me.
James also stresses learning the business of acting from the beginning stages and we have worked on developing my acting portfolio. He stresses proper headshots, demo monologues reels, blue screen reels, web portfolios, and helped me feel calm and relaxed with auditions and approaching agents . He is super versatile and also teachings voiceover and musical theatre which I plan to explore more.
Most importantly he inspires his students to be disciplined in their practice and strive to be very best. It is no wonder James has alumni students that are noted actors in LA industry, Broadway stage and students that stay loyal to him.
Thanks!
April 21, 2023
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Typical Process for New Students
Initial consultation: A brief phone or video call to assess the student’s goals, experience, and fit for Spencer Artist Development.
First lesson: Students schedule a 45 or 60-minute session (online or limited in-studio) to evaluate current skill level and begin professional training.
Customized lesson plan: James designs a tailored program based on the student’s experience, objectives, and industry focus.
Structured training: Students progress through weekly sessions with focused instruction, practice assignments, and feedback.
Advanced opportunities: After the initial training period, students may qualify for artist development, portfolio guidance, and specialized programs for career preparation.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Education & Training
James Spencer holds advanced training in performance, music, and coaching, with a multidisciplinary background supporting high-level artistic development.
Master of Music – Vocal & Keyboard Performance, California State University, Fullerton
Bachelor of Music – Vocal & Keyboard Performance, California State University, Fullerton
Performance Diploma – Early Music (Pianoforte/Harpsichord), Royal Academy of Music
Associate of Arts (Music & Drama) – Orange Coast College
Additional training and certifications include:
Fellowship studies in Drama (American Plays, Film & Television) and Musicology
Clinical Hypnotherapy Certification, Hypnosis Motivation Institute
CLAD Teaching Credential (Vocal/Choral Music & Drama, National Certification)
U.S. Coach for examinations with the University of West London (London College of Music program)
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Pricing
Pricing is determined individually during the initial consultation to ensure the lesson duration, program structure, and training plan are aligned with each student’s professional goals and career path.
How did you get started teaching?
I have been teaching music and drama since I was 14, combining my lifelong passion for the arts with professional training and performance experience. Over the years, I have guided students in acting, voiceover, music, and modeling, helping them develop portfolios, audition successfully, and prepare for professional careers in the arts.
What types of students have you worked with?
I work with serious intermediate to advanced students who are preparing for professional careers in acting, voiceover, music, or modeling, as well as dedicated adult students, including retirees, who have the time and commitment to pursue artistic excellence at the highest level.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I am particularly proud of my voiceover students, who have achieved Highest Distinction in my Certification Courses, including AI Animation Character Development and Dialect Training. In addition, my digital album series, The Cocktail Piano Hour, has been recognized as Best Lounge Music for three consecutive years by Sydney, Australia radio charts.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Before reaching out, students should consider their commitment to serious artistic growth. Success in acting, voiceover, music, or modeling requires consistent practice, focus, and a willingness to engage with professional-level training. Surround yourself with supportive, creative peers and avoid distractions or relationships that undermine your goals. With dedication and the right guidance, you can achieve excellence and take your artistry to the next level.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Before contacting a teacher, students should consider:
Their commitment to pursuing a professional path in the arts and willingness to invest in their future through focused training.
Whether they have the necessary tools and resources, such as a reliable computer and recording setup for voiceover or acting work.
If they are seeking serious, results-driven instruction versus casual hobby-level guidance.
Their readiness to learn not only the craft but also entrepreneurial strategies to successfully navigate a career in acting, voiceover, music, or modeling.
Services offered
Life Coaching
Acting
Music Theory
Piano
Violin
Singing
Voice Acting