I fell into producing about seven years ago. And now that I’m here, I realize how much I love it.
As a producer, I see my role as (1) a MIDWIFE, helping artists give birth to something they’re excited about, and (2) a CASTING DIRECTOR, figuring out who needs to be in the room to make the songs sound right. (I had an artist recently tell me that I was something of a therapist, so maybe that’s part of it too.)
I also help to make sure the songs are ready to be recorded, and once they are, I help the artist feel comfortable in the studio–especially when singing, which can be the most vulnerable part.
Here’s a recent review in No Depression
of Riding the Stream: A Tribute to Bruce Piephoff (Vol 1)
produced by Claire Holley
“Piephoff was not a folk poet, but a poet of the folk: ‘using material or the lives of workers and poor people, people all across the spectrum of our society. And gives voice to all their concerns and does it in a way that’s pungent and elegant at the same time.’
That pungent elegance is displayed magnificently on Holley’s tribute…The most striking thing about this tribute is how pretty it is…” –Grant Britt
Listen to the Bruce Piephoff Tribute on bandcamp
“Claire has a way of listening to the bones of a song and knowing how to bring it to life. In collaboration with her, I’m constantly amazed by her strong intuitive nature and seemingly effortless musical abilities.”
—Eliza Bee, singer/songwriter / visual artist
Claire works with schools and theater groups, writing and directing music for their productions, such as…
“It was a collaboration unlike anything any of us had ever done. The performances were so powerful, fueled by all that creative energy. My cast and my colleagues are still talking about the experience.”
—Phyllis Seawright, Mississippi College director of The Tempest
ALICE IN WONDERLAND
Original Songs and Score by Claire Holley with Ken Oak (cello) & Darice Bailey (piano). Two SOLD OUT performances by the students at Westmark School.
Directed by Margot Fitzsimmons
“Claire was very creative and thoughtful with the students and the production. She encouraged students to sing who had not sung before, and gave them the confidence to excel on stage. It was such a pleasure to work with Claire. The music she wrote enhanced the piece and perfectly represented every mood of each scene. She is a true collaborator and brought joy to every rehearsal and performance! We loved working with Claire!”
—Margot Fitzsimmons, theater director at Westmark School
SEE ROCK CITY
Original songs and score by Claire Holley w/Domenic Genova (bass) & Tom Corbett (mandolin) Performed at the Actor’s Coop in Hollywood, CA. Listen here
Directed by Nan McNamara
“Claire read the script, we talked and then she read my mind. The music she created for See Rock City helped tell the story in a beautifully affecting way. What more could you want? She is an amazing artist.”
—Nan McNamara, voiceover artist, actor, director
Do you have a song that’s been sitting around for a few weeks, months or years? You want to share it with the world but not sure where to start? Claire can help you shape your ideas into finished songs.
Want to give a memorable gift?
Have Claire write a song for a special occasion.