The Producers

 

Chip Chalmers – A true Stratocaster fan, this project was his dreamchild.  But Chip’s background is not in the musical field.  He is a Television Director with an amazing list of credits.  His vast amount of work has been among the most popular of TV series, especially series that appeal to the youth market.  Series such as “Melrose Place,” “Beverly Hills 90201,” and, even, “Star Trek”.  His first directing experience was with a series that was no stranger to the combination of music and film: “Miami Vice”.  Since then, Chip has gone on to be one of the most worked Directors in the business. His fast moving presentational style is perfect for this project and his knowledge of the Stratocaster allows him to concisely focus on the information we want to deliver.  Having worked with such names as Charlton Heston, Joan Collins, Heather Locklear, Luke Perry, Perry King and many others, Chip is not easily intimidated by the star quality of our musical artists and, in fact, quickly establishes a friendly relationship with them for our interviews.

Jeffrey Willerth – Jeffrey is our base, our ground.  Jeffrey has an extensive background working in the field of Documentaries.   His projects include work for the Animal Planet, The History Channel, A&E, the Discovery Channel and others.  The amazing PBS  centennial of the Ford Motor Company was Jeffrey’s doing.  His attention to detail and research abilities are amazing.  He can track a concept backwards from end to beginning (a rare trait), then forward the information in a way that makes it seem new and unique.    He knows the pitfalls of doing documentaries and will keep this project “honest” in that regard.  As a line producer, Jeffrey is more than adept at keeping the budget within our means and utilizing our materials and equipment to the best possible advantage.  Which is not to undercut his creative input which is born of his insatiable curiosity on any subject.  In this case, the Fender Stratocaster.

Steven L. Sears – More than anyone, Steven comes from a background that is most removed from this subject.  Far from being a disadvantage, Steven represents the kind of audience we want to reach: not a gear-head, but with just enough interest in music to be attracted to the concept.  Steven’s background is in the field of Television Drama.  He is a successful Writer/Producer who will write our narration, constantly keeping his eye on the audience’s entertainment meter to make sure the ride is an enjoyable one.  His experience in this field covers twenty years of writing and producing popular Television series.  In fact two of his series, “The A-Team” and “Xena – Warrior Princess”, are considered to be Pop Icons in their own rights.  His style of delivery and humor is exactly what is required for the narrative glue that brings our story together.