Founded in 1978, by then 17 year old high school student Jeffery S. Wright, The Voice Shoppe was initially created to fill what was seen as a void in the representation of the Vocal Arts in Western Michigan.
With a strong desire to promote Vocal Art in his home region, Jeffery set out to begin drawing the spotlight to what he considered an important aspect of day to day life. His belief was that, " to sing was to celebrate living." This philosophy would become the cornerstone of The Voice Shoppe.
In 1979, Jeffery began the process of competing in Local and State programs. He earned perfect scores at the Local and State levels, earned a scholarship to Michigan State University for a summer education program in music, a blue ribbon, and a place at Interlochen Fine Arts Academy.
Studies began that same year under the dynamic Voice Instructor Maestro Gordon Von Ry, and in 1980 he doubled up his study program with Mrs. Darlene Gray of Norman LuBoff Choir fame. From these great teachers he found a new inspiration and depth that catapulted him into a lifelong passion to make Vocal Music more than just a collection of notes, but rather to make the voice an instrument that would express the deepest aspects of an individual.
In 1988, Jeffery became the first Michigan resident to ever win an MCSF International Grand Champion Award for Overall Vocal Performance, handily winning over 2,500 other vocal artists from around the world. He then went on to appear in performance on many television programs locally and nationally. He especially enjoyed appearing in performance on"Gene Riley's Hymns of Praise," "Michigan Alive," and "To Be A Star."
Simply being a guest however, was not enough for this intrepid artist, so he set out to design his own television program which would focus on the vocal arts in Western Michigan. Upon having settled on a name, "Adrenalin Sky," he set out to direct, produce, and host the program for 3 successful seasons.
Adrenalin Sky ran from 1992 to 1995.
1995 to 1997, saw yet another program called, "The Voice Shoppe with J. Scott Wright and Marji V."
2002, saw Jeffery at it again, but this time on a recording project that was to become one of his most favorite. "Sky Full Of Roses," showcased this aggressive vocalist's strong, unfettered voice in original compositions written by himself and one of his Protege' students, Justin Holcomb, now known as Justin Richard. Finally a project had come along that he could sink his teeth into. To this day, songs like "xxxuality," and "Making Kings," top his favorites list.
To date over 700 aspiring Vocal Artists have passed through this innovative Voice Coach's door. Some have gone on to build families, while others are still pursuing their dreams. In either case, Jeffery is proud of each and every artist he has had the joy to work with.
As always, Jeffery is looking forward to the next roster of musical challenges that are sure to come his way. In the meantime, he continues to teach others the joy of singing The Wright Way.