In summer of 2008, Lauren received a scholarship to study with Deborah Gibson in Los Angeles at Deborah’s newly formed “Camp Electric Youth”. Anything but a traditional program, the experience afforded Lauren the opportunity to work with Deborah with whom she produced two original songs and gave her the chance to work with guitarist Bryan Austin (Clint Black) and Jeff Timmons (98 Degrees). But more importantly, Lauren returned to New Jersey with a clearer vision of the type of performer she wanted to be. She spent the next six months clarifying her vision and her unique sound through collaboration with JP Rende, voice teacher Chris Cain, and her presentation style (with the folks at Hollywood Pop Jam). Lauren built on this foundation by studying with legendary vocalist and producer Betty Wright in Florida where she wrote additional material in a supportive, collaborative environment.
Music has always been central in Lauren’s life. Born in Chicago, Lauren trained in dance from the age of three it wasn’t long before her hard work and positive spirit lead to leading roles on stage. Lauren realized she loved performing and studied acting eventually appearing in some national commercials, voiceovers, student films and many plays. Lauren appeared as Susan Walker in “Miracle on 34th Street” along side Tracy Letts (Broadway’s August Osage County). In 2005 the family relocated to New York. Shortly after arriving in New York, she auditioned with over seven hundred girls to join the off-Broadway production of American Girl’s “The Circle of Friends”. She performed at American Girl Theatre for over eighteen months learning complex eight part harmonies and making a great group of talented supportive friends along the way. Lauren trained at Lee Strasberg in New York and is a member of SAG, AFTRA and ASCAP. Her acting resume and reel is available on Breakdown Services, through iActor or by request.
As a vocalist… Lauren currently trains formally with Chris Cain in New York. She has been studying voice since age ten and has been fortunate enough to work with some of the finest teachers in Chicago, New York and Los Angeles – Seth Riggs, Dave Stroud, Badiene Magaziner, John Komasa, Randy Buescher, Bob Marks, Amelia DeMayo, Lilianna Soltirova and Joy Graysen. Lauren is trained in classical technique and Speech Level Singing methods.
Lauren is a trained dancer and has studied Ballet, Hip Hop, Jazz and Tap for many years and participated in summer programs at some of the finest dance schools, Broadway Dance Center, The Radio City Rockettes, The Rock School of Ballet, Ballet Chicago, Ruth Page and Millenium Dance.
Lauren has launched her own website - www.laurenmandel.com/music. Check it out and join her email list (powered by Fanbridge) and to be kept informed of the latest news. Followers are also encouraged to friend her and subscribe to updates on MySpace (www.Myspace.com/LaurenMandelMusic), YouTube (www.Youtube.com/LaurenMandelOfficial) and Twitter (www.Twitter.com/LaurenMandel).
Musical Influences Lauren enjoys listening to a great variety of music in all genres. Songwriters she particularly admires include Avril Levigne, Taylor Swift, Janis Ian. Performers she has been influence by include Michael Jackson, Britney Spears, Katy Perry, Debbie Harry, P!nk. Vocalists include Christina Aguilera, Demi Lovato, Betty Wright and Gwen Stefani. She is on her way to establishing her own vocal & performance style. Lauren has always has a strong sense of her own individual fashion style and shows the same resolve to create a vocal and presentation style that is genuinely her own.
Performances
Rhumba Room, Universal City, CA - Hollywood Pop Jam, (July ’09) Joe’s Pub, New York - Loser’s Lounge in their Eagles vs. Neil Young show, (June ’09). Danny’s Skylight Lounge, New York – Bob Marks’ Showcase South Mountain Arena, South Orange, NJ – National Anthem Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade, New York & Broadcast – Featured vocalist in opening number.
Discography
2009 EP “Welcome to the House of Freaks” 2008 Recording American Girl “Holiday Show” 2006 Recording Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade opening track by Andrew Lippa.
