Your Unique Performance Style

This webinar is designed for emerging and mid-level performing artists including musicians, singer-songwriters, and live performers who want to strengthen their artist identity and elevate their live shows. 

Webinar Schedule: 

• Welcome & and overview of the session
  
  
• Brief introduction of the speakers including Marvin A. Smith’s background & GEMA’s role
  
  
• Objectives of the webinar:
  
  - Strengthening stage presence 
  
  - Defining and enhancing your your Unique Selling Proposition (USP) 
  
  - Creating memorable live performances

"This is not just about performance techniques, but about owning the stage and making your art unforgettable." 

Part 1: Understanding Your Artistic Identity 

• What does USP mean for performing artists? 

• Exercise: Describe your artistic self in 3 words 

• Marvin’s input:
  
  - Examples of artists with a strong and recognizable identity
  
  - How music, personality, and storytelling work together

• Goal: Gain clarity on how your personal story and style form your artistic brand 
  
  

Part 2: Stage Presence Fundamentals  

• The importance of:
  
  - Body language
  
  - Vocal control
  
  - Authentic audience connection

• Common pitfalls:
  
  - Being over-rehearsed
  
  - Being too casual

• Practical Examples:
  
  - “What works, what doesn’t”
  
  - Short clips from iconic live performances 

Goal: Increase awareness of your physical and vocal impact on stage


Part 3: Crafting a Memorable Live Set  

• Mini-Exercise: Design a 15-minute live performance structure 

• Open discussion and feedback

Goal: Learn how to create an emotionally engaging and well-paced live set


Part 4: Rehearsal vs. Spontaneity

• How to prepare for the unexpected 

• Improvisation tips for live settings

• Creating “signature moments” on stage

Goal: Balance preparation with authenticity and spontaneity

Q&A / Open Discussion 
 
Please complete the entire registration process by the registration deadline at 12 noon on the day before the event. 

About Marvin A. Smith

Marvin A. Smith is one of the absolute superstars of the international show scene. For decades, he has been working on both sides of the Atlantic – as a director, choreographer, stage coach, dance producer and creative consultant.

A true “artist whisperer,” he creates a safe and inspiring environment where performers thrive, delivering precision, emotion, and impact on stage. His collaborative and high-frequency energy has made him a sought-after partner for stars including Helene Fischer, Kylie Minogue, David Garrett, Robbie Williams, Zoe Wees, Revolverheld, Guido Maria Kretschmer, Karolina Kurkova,  and many more. 

Born in Southern California, he began his career as a dancer on Michael Jackson's legendary world tours Dangerous and Black or White – today he is one of the most sought-after creative directors and choreographers in the music industry worldwide. 

Not only showbiz greats such as Elton John, Madonna and Pink regularly rely on his flair for impressive show productions, directing and choreography. Marvin has also worked as a talent coach on Hollywood blockbusters such as The Bodyguard and Malcolm X. His creativity and professionalism have also shaped musicals such as West Side Story, fashion events for Giorgio Armani, Calvin Klein and Hugo Boss, and TV shows such as Germany's Next Topmodel, the Bundes- and Eurovision Songcontest and Got to Dance, where he himself sat on the jury. 
Since appearing in the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games Opening Ceremony, Marvin has been in international demand.