About
Online (USA) and In Study (Long Beach, CA) Private Lessons are available in 45, 60 and 90 minute durations.
James Specializes in working with intermediate to advanced artistry level but also encourages beginners. JAMES ACCEPTS US STUDENTS 18 and Older Only.
Subjects Taught: ACTING, VOICEOVER, VOICE ACTING, DIALECTS, MODELING, MUSICAL THEATRE VOCAL, PIANO (Advanced Artists only -Classical or Jazz), MUSIC THEORY/COMPOSITION/SONGWRITING.
ARTIST DEVELOPMENT (by successful audition)
Specialties
Experience level
Acting venue(s)
People in group
Acting focus area(s)
Students goals
Acting type(s)
Student's age
Photos and videos
Reviews
dora S.
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 ... Show more
charles C.
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... Show more
julia L.
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 helpfu... Show more
laura J.
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 quic... Show more
dev R.
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... Show more
dev R.
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 ... Show more
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Process
1. Complimentary 15 minute phone consultation
2. Book 45 or 60 minute orientation lesson: includes assessment, orientation to my studio or online and goal setting
3. Pay registration ($60 single, $75 family) and registration for regularly weekly time
4. Complete 2 months of weekly lessons to qualify for additional promotions.
Online (US residents): FB messaging or Zoom
In person (Long Beach, CA)
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Fellowship 2016 (University of West London)
Cl. Hynotherapy Diploma 2006 (HMI)
Master of Music 1995 (CSUF)
Bachelor of Music 1992 (CSUF)
Performance Diploma in Keyboard 1989 (Royal Academy of Music, Victoria, B.C.)
Associate of Arts in Music 1988 (OCC)
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Pricing:
Registration: $60 ($75 family)
Tuition:
45m: $75, 60m: $90, 90m: $120
Call for Artist Development rates (by audition/portfolio submission)
Web packages: $1800-$5000
How did you get started teaching?
I have taught music and drama since I was 14. I have always had a passion for teaching acting and music.
What types of students have you worked with?
I tend to teach serious actors/musicians preparing for careers in the arts. I teach all levels, and cultural diversity.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Excited in 2023 to have taught students that have only studied acting with me for about 6 months that have already appeared as actors in movie, television , and live theatre. I am blessed with hard working dedicated students.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
A professional acting or music coach should have the following
1. Advanced degrees
2. A website portfolio demonstrating photos of their professional level students, bio, studio policy and other products related to their field such as albums, books, digital workshop courses (jamesrspencer.com)
3. Years of BUSINESS experience in the arts aiding others to create their own successful arts businesses.
4. Connections in the industry.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
1. Are they truly comitted and serious about their artistic growth. Will they practice daily?
2. What fears might be holding you back from being unstoppable?