Valerie Fahren: The Artist Behind the Artists
[as originally published on ventsmagazine.com]
Valerie Fahren has built a career most artists would envy—twice. As a top Los Angeles vocal coach and artist development specialist, she’s helped shape the voices and careers of singers who’ve gone on to sign with Virgin and Geffen Records, book leading roles on Broadway, and perform with legends like Chaka Khan, Jessica Simpson, and Beck. But Valerie’s not just behind the scenes—she’s a seasoned artist herself. From fronting a band whose music hit NYC airwaves in her teens, to recording with the Wilson Sisters, Neil Diamond, and Chick Corea, her path blends performance, mentorship, and a serious ear for the real thing. With over 25 years in the industry, Valerie continues to produce showcases, develop original artists, and refine what it takes to truly prepare talent for the spotlight.
You’ve worked with everyone from brand-new artists to A-list professionals. What’s the first thing you notice about a voice?
That’s a toss-up between pitch to quality of tone. I love to hear a beautiful tone, and if it’s a little pitchy I can help an artist fix that. If the pitch is great, which is super important, and the tone needs work, I can help them build the tone in the voice as well.
You focus on more than just vocal technique—your Artist Development Program covers songwriting, stage presence, even pitch prep. Why is that bigger-picture work so critical?
Today it’s all about being the full package. If I have a full-package artist, it’s easier to present and pitch at my Industry Showcases and just plain intros. If self-confidence is lacking, that can be a “no.” If pitch is off, that can be a “no” as well. If the songs are not unified into a set style that, can also be a “no.” So, I work with my clients to cross all the t’s and dot all the i’s. I’ve been doing this for many years, so I know what the labels and agents are looking for—and what can be viewed as “not ready.”
Many of your students land major opportunities—TV shows, film roles, recording deals. What separates the ones who break through?
The ones that are willing to learn, work, and do—and to collab with me and my connections, practice, create, and not get distracted. If they can do what is necessary and they persist, and don’t give up, they have a great chance.
You’ve collaborated with Grammy-winning producers and major A&R names like Max Gousse and Omar Grant. How did those relationships come about?
Through years of hard work, maintaining a consistent reputation, building relationships, and creating my artist development program and showcases.
You’re also an active artist. How has your experience as a performer shaped the way you teach?
I most importantly want to give back—impart to my clients all of the information that I have in order to help them as much as possible. And—maybe just as important—to not give them anything that turned out to be unsuccessful for me.
You’ve performed in everything from Fiddler on the Roof to The Threepenny Opera. Do you approach vocal coaching differently for stage actors versus studio artists?
Yes, somewhat. There’s a different technique for stage, which requires more projection and breath control, as well as stage presence to help carry the voice. Whereas, in the studio, it’s all about putting one’s entire personality, tone, presence, and style into a microphone and having it travel through the electronics to carry through to the audience.
One of your most notable students is Alison Sudol (A Fine Frenzy). What was it like watching her career unfold?
It was very exciting to watch her develop. She showed so much passion for her performances, as well as consistency and pursuit of her dreams. She really wasn’t about to let anything stop her. She just plowed through everything and made it all happen. When I saw her do a 10-minute scene as Queenie, just her and Johnny Depp in Fantastic Beasts, I was so emotional and happy for how far she’d come. She is truly a beautiful artist!
You’ve recorded with names like Neil Diamond and Chick Corea. Any standout moments from those sessions?
Just total pros with total appreciation for each other’s abilities. They were flawless, organized, and straight-up nice people. I love working with my A-list artists because they are so humble, too. It’s amazing to see them work. Chick was one of my favorites because he shows such respect while at the same time had such a spirit of play and total professionalism.
You’ve run your own artist showcase for over two decades. What’s the most meaningful result that’s come from one of those nights?
Wow! [laughs] I don’t know how to answer that. I guess one showcase back in 2019, I believe, we had about 30 VIP industry attend and every single artist on stage there—about nine of them—got a reach from either a label, agent, manager, producer, or casting director. That was incredible. Many have gotten deals, TV Shows, or recording contracts.
What advice would you give to a young singer trying to find their voice—and their place—in today’s music industry?
Work with me and I will lead you there! Aside from that, always persist until you reach your goals. Don’t let others bring you down or discourage you. Be confident in yourself and know when to take advice of those more experienced than you. And never take advice from someone that is not as far along as you are in your industry.
Valerie Fahren’s official website: valeriefahren.com.