I had an interesting workshop earlier this month. There were two participants who exemplified extremes in volume. Aaron was too loud – Andrew too soft. By the end of workshop, both Aaron and Andrew were speaking at a normal Volume Level 1. In addition, both were able to increase their volume beyond Level 1 without shouting.
Through the years that I’ve been teaching voice, it has never ceased to amaze me how many voice coaches are not familiar with the right techniques for teaching correct volume levels. If their clients are too soft, they tell them to speak louder; if they are too loud, they’re told to speak more softly. This is incorrect advice when it comes to volume.
Why is this happening? Because most voice coaches are not teaching their clients how to find the optimum pitch of the speaking voice nor are they aware of the power of the chest cavity. Both the optimum pitch and the chest cavity are fundamental in the production of voiced sound.
Pitch refers to the highness or lowness of sound – volume is the loudness or softness of sound.
What is fascinating about my techniques for teaching voice is that once your chest cavity is powering and amplifying your voice, your volume will automatically adjust to a normal level. It is amazing how this works.
Aaron’s voice, which he had been pushing from his throat, lost its harshness or shrillness and became warm in quality. On the other hand, Andrew’s voice, which had been powered primarily by his voice box, also became warm in quality, losing its young-sounding or whispery traits.
Change the way you power your sound and not only will your volume adjust to a normal level, but you will also discover a warmer, deeper, and more mature-sounding voice!
If you’d like to see some impressive volume changes, check out the Before Page on my Voice Dynamic Website.