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As soon as we think about saying something, our
brains are already getting our bodies ready to speak.
There are three subsystems that work together to
create speech: respiratory, vibratory, and
articulatory.
The respiratory system's primary function is to breathe in order to sustain life. Breath is also the fuel for speech. Just as we make sure our cars run efficiently, there are things we can do to maximize the efficiency of our respiratory system for speech. As breath moves past the vocal folds (or vocal cords), vibration is created. Most of the work involved in helping the vocal folds function better is about doing less. Tension is one of the chief enemies of easy and pleasant vocal production. Articulation is the final subsystem. As the sound moves through the throat and into the mouth, the tongue, jaw, lips, and teeth shape it into words. Working with this subsystem may mean improving coordination, placement, manner, or rate. Things can go wrong anywhere along the path. If we do not know how to breathe deeply, we may have a weak voice. If we have tension at the level of our vocal folds, we may sound tense. If our articulators are not coordinated, our speech may sound sloppy. Many things can be done to enhance the sound we create. There is no issue too small or unusual to explore. Curious? Give us a call (630-435- 5622). You can sound your best! |
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Have you sat through Power Point presentations
where the slides take center stage? Random sounds,
animation, too much text, and lots of eye-grabbing
effects draw your attention away from the speaker
and the message.
If the effects being used have nothing to do with the message, it is best to leave them out. If your text is overwhelming, make it more succinct. Your slides should enhance your presentation, not be distracting. Your audience should not have to sort through confusing sounds and visuals to glean your message. This idea seems like common sense, and now there is research to back it up. You have probably seen newscasts that have scrolling bars of text, stock market information, sports scores, and even multiple scenes at once. Researchers at the University of Kansas* have found that viewers retain 10 percent fewer facts watching these "noisy" newscasts versus simpler programs. The ability to understand multiple conflicting messages at once is called parallel processing. As long as various aspects of the message are connected semantically, the human brain can understand what is being presented. The take-home message is: Make sure all aspects of your presentation, including your sound, style, message, and Power Point presentation are aligned with your purpose. When in doubt, leave it out! |
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Workshops, Seminars & Classes
JUNE 16: Speak with Confidence
Michelle Eppley, Director of The Sound Center, will be speaking to a local Toastmasters chapter about the sound and style of confidence. To learn more about Toastmasters, visit http://www.toastmasters.org/. If your group or organization needs a speaker, contact us! 630-435-5622 or email ( info@thesoundcenter.com). JUNE 22: OK, Now What Do I Do? Michelle Eppley will join Dave Bradley of Edward Jones and Jan Hutchinson of the Devonshire of Lisle for a panel discussion about networking and managing leads. If you are wondering what to do with the stack of business cards you have acquired through networking, this event is for you!
For more information, or to register, visit www.downersgrove.org JUNE 30 - JULY 21: Redesign Your Accent If you have a strong foreign accent, you probably spend a lot of your time being misunderstood. You may know English well, but have to repeat yourself frequently. Help is available. In this four-week intensive class you can improve your ability to communicate in business and social situations. This class will focus on intonation and pronunciation of the most important sounds and everyday phrases.
JULY 25: Presenting--YOU! You've seen this workshop offered before at The Sound Center. Maybe you have even attended. Whether you are an expert presenter or public speaking is your greatest fear, this workshop is guaranteed to enhance your skills--or your money back! You will receive expert feedback to make instant improvements. If you would like to be more prepared, overcome your fear, or improve your voice, don't wait! Register now to reserve your space!
Want to be ready for FALL?
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