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How to Use your Voice Effectively

learly for a professional singer the voice is
their most precious instrument. It needs to be
developed and it needs to be taken care of.
Different nuances and levels of expression are
developed and revealed over time.

For the speaker it is much the same. Quite
literally the vocal chords are the medium that
vibrates the air, that sends the message, that
resonates in the listener's ear-drum.
An unappealing, grating or monotonous delivery
will create resistance in the listener,
regardless of the value of the content.

Initially when helping a speaker develop their
vocal range we focus on the 3 'p's: pitch, pace
and pause.

Pitch covers two areas of expression:

i. raising and lowering the voice as
required to create tonal variety

ii. effective and varied use of volume and
projection

We need to develop a natural, relatable style of
delivery. These days the 'declaiming orator'
seems a bit over the top to most of us,
nevertheless it is still vital to be aware that
every nuance that may seem effective under your
own ear needs to be exaggerated for an audience.
Clearly the bigger the room, the bigger the
audience, the more this becomes essential.

Pace, when combined with pitch adds the 'third
dimension'. To be able to naturally moderate the
speed, the pitch and volume in different
combinations can give infinite colour and variety
to the polished, well-rehearsed speaker.

The pause is a valuable tool in its own right.
Its use can be varied and dramatic; whether for
instance speeding up, increasing volume and pitch
to reach a dramatic pause, or gently winding down
to a natural silence to allow the audience to
digest a significant point or opinion.

Articulation and clarity of speech are also
important in delivering an effective presentation.
Many great singers are able to combine clear
diction with a very natural delivery. A singer
like Frank Sinatra is worth listening to for the
balance he achieves between ease and clarity.

In considering the voice and how it can be used
to best effect, it can be very useful for a
speaker to listen to the rhythm and nuances of
music, particularly classical music, which can
greatly help to develop natural rhythm and flow,
as well as giving hints on pace, pitch and
balance.

Please remember that the voice is the speaker's
primary tool of communication. The voice has
infinite possibilities in creating light, colour
and interest for the audience. Take time out to
develop the voice and you'll have a massive
impact on the audience and on the those who book
speakers.
About the Author
Vince Stevenson is one of England's greatest
speaking enthusiasts, having competed for and won
many prestigious competitions. Vince is a
founder and lead trainer at the College of Public
Speaking. Please visit us at => http://www.
collegeofpublicspeaking.co.uk