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February 2006 The Sound Center, Inc. Newsletter
Parameters of Human Sound--Loudness
Last month's newsletter was the first in a series discussing the various parameters of human sound. In the months to come, we will cover quality, resonance, articulation, and other aspects of the human voice. The topic of this newsletter is loudness.

Also in this newsletter is a list of upcoming events of interest and the deal of the month. Any questions? Contact us! info@thesoundcenter.com

The Parameter of Loudness
Michelle Eppley  
There are some people we strain to hear. We often have to ask them to repeat themselves. They may have great ideas, but if they are hard to hear they may be ignored. In "A Basic Overview of Voice Production" Dr. Ronald Scherrer states hat "Loudness of the voice will generally increase when the air pressure in the lungs increases." (Click here for full article.) This means that if you need to speak more loudly, one of the best things to do is to take deeper breaths. Loudness depends on other factors also, including resonance and vocal fold tension.

If you need to increase your loudness for presentations, singing, meetings, and speaking in background noise, there are several things you can try:

  • Take deep, low breaths more frequently--don't drop your voice or speak in glottal fry.
  • Imagine your voice traveling all the way to the wall, or even to the next room.
  • Try varying your pitch*. Pitch and loudness changes are usually produced together.
  • Relax your mouth so that it can be more open as you speak.
  • Read aloud, imagining you are a great orator, declaiming the text with feeling.
  • Don't shout. Good voice projection is not the same as yelling. If you feel any physical discomfort, stop.
  • Work with a voice trainer. We would be happy to see you at The Sound Center. Call us 630-435-5622 or email us info@thesoundcenter.com for more information.

Of course, there are people who speak too loudly. This may be a personality trait. They may come across as being overly aggressive and have difficulty working well in groups of people. With some awareness and retraining, they can achieve a more appropriate level. Another possibility is that they have a hearing loss. Hearing testing is recommended by a certified, licensed audiologist, and one can be recommended.

Take home message: There are solutions for voices that are too soft or too loud. Communication effectiveness improves when your voice level is pleasant and matches your message.

UPCOMING EVENTS
  Workshops and Seminars
MARCH 2: Presenting--YOU!

This is the most popular workshop held at The Sound Center. If you've been waiting, join us. If you've taken this workshop before, you can join us again-- choose a different goal or decide to work at a higher level. The workshop is tailored to YOU!

Here's what past attendees have said:

  • Great class to build your presentation skills and give a voice to your potential!
  • I can start using the presentation techniques I learned right away.
  • Very welcoming, comfortable atmosphere.
  • The instructor was an excellent facilitator! She gave honest feedback in a constructive manner.
  • After many years in sales and account management, I wanted "real" feedback on my presentation strengths and weaknesses. My expectations were met!
  • You focused your feedback specific to my goals.
  • This was an incredible experience! I was able to see and change the way I come across to other people.

This workshop will provide safe, supportive place for you to practice your presentation skills and receive expert feedback. It is valuable whether you are a seasoned speaker or public speaking is your greatest fear.

  • When: Thursday, March 2nd, 2006, 6-8:30 pm
  • Where: The Sound Center, 4949 Forest Avenue, Third Floor, Downers Grove, IL 60515
  • Fee: $59 --See special "Deal of the Month" below!
  • Register by Feb. 24th--space is limited!
  • Register online: www.thesoundcenter.com/events
  • For more information, call now: 630-435-5622 or email ( info@thesoundcenter.com).

Upcoming Seminars offered at College of DuPage:

  • Speaking with Confidence: 2/22 and 4/26
  • Anatomy of an Accent: 3/15

Click here to visit the website for course and registration information.

 

Contact Information

phone: 630-435-5622
Join our mailing list!

 
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DEAL OF THE MONTH

This month's special deal is for Presenting--YOU! Bring a friend or colleague for half price! Bring two and your spot is FREE! Register now!

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Offer Expires: 1/16/06
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