Get the PDF "Vocal Basics for Improv" with all the exercises and concepts from this episode at https://improvupdate.com/downloads.

This episode is all about using your voice in improv. You do not need to do "funny voices" to be a good performer, you can work with the attributes of your own voice and make some subtle shifts.

I explain how to use your own voice effectively. These subtle changes to your vocal dynamics can create clear, grounded characters that you can heighten in a variety of ways.

You'll get an overview of the core components of vocal musicality, and how to practice them. These include speech rate, cadence, and prosody. Understanding these is the first step to vocal control. Then, I share five specific improv exercises to practice these skills.

I really REALLY want to redo the singing parts, oh gawd :) Also feel free to take a drink or something each time I bump the mic arm.

Mentioned in this episode:

Previous Episodes on Vocal Musicality:

Figuring out your vocal speed (words per minute): https://youtu.be/3HK40OxMGno

Exercises for voice: https://youtu.be/Z6ekXuwbpxk

Newsletter Sign-up (with reflection PDF): https://improvupdate.com/newsletter

Jill Bernard's "Small Cute Book of Improv": https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3231956-jill-bernard-s-small-cute-book-of-improv

Viola Spolin: https://www.violaspolin.org/publications

Example of "Recitative": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IDq4KqP7Pxs

Downloadable content

Download the Free Post-Show Reflection Guide: Sent to your inbox when you subscribe to either newsletter (and added to the footer to each message if you're already subscribed).

Get a booklet with six exercises to help you get reps in challenging scenes called "Exercises to Ruin You"

More resources

• Get articles about improv: Join the ImprovUpdate newsletter(s) for general improv articles, and articles about neuroinclusive improv and comedy. Join either or both!
• Get downloads about improv & comedy: Find them here.
• Review the podcast: Rate and review this podcast on Podchaser.
• Chat about improv and comedy: Join the Improv Update Discord here.

Support

Like this content and want it to continue? Support this podcast here with a one-time tip here: StereoForest.com/tip

We love our podcast host Capitvate.fm! Contact me anytime to ask me anything. You can support my shows by signing up with Captivate here: https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=yzjiytz

About

This podcast was created, written, and is hosted by Jen deHaan. You can find her bio here.

This episode was and edited and produced by StereoForest.com. Contact StereoForest for information about producing YOUR podcast, website, and more at reasonable rates.

Join the FREE StereoForest newsletter for all podcast and show updates at members.stereoforest.com.

What does neuroinclusive mean? It means that you create a supportive environment inclusive and accommodating of all cognitive types and abilities to learn, write together, or perform. This, just like the word "neurodiversity", includes both neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals. Which is… you, since that covers everyone!

This podcast was made in British Columbia, Canada by StereoForest Podcasts.

Note

I mention surveys and written versions in earlier episodes. I am moving this content to ImprovUpdate.com on a new being-developed website. You can always send me any comments, thoughts, feedback, or contributions using the contact form on this page.

Mentioned in this episode:

Podcast Performance Lab

In this show we take the most effective tools from improv performance and behavioural psychology, and apply them directly to your video and audio content. If you're building a personal brand, B2B show, or a creative new podcast, you know how you say things matters just as much as what you say.

What to expect:

Psychology of Presence: Why listeners trust some voices and tune out others (and how to fix "flat" audio).

Unscripted Strategy & Exercises: How to speak naturally using tools from improv & behavioural science.

Production Strategy: Systems for video podcasting that don't burn you out.

Host: Jen deHaan is the founder of StereoForest. With a background of over 20 years in tech, education, & instructional design and 10 years in improv and performance, Jen brings systems and scientific approach to media production.

SUBSCRIBE: https://www.stereoforest.com/lab

Podcast Performance Lab

In this show we take the most effective tools from improv performance and behavioural psychology, and apply them directly to your video and audio content. If you're building a personal brand, B2B show, or a creative new podcast, you know how you say things matters just as much as what you say.

What to expect:

Psychology of Presence: Why listeners trust some voices and tune out others (and how to fix "flat" audio).

Unscripted Strategy & Exercises: How to speak naturally using tools from improv & behavioural science.

Production Strategy: Systems for video podcasting that don't burn you out.

Host: Jen deHaan is the founder of StereoForest. With a background of over 20 years in tech, education, & instructional design and 10 years in improv and performance, Jen brings systems and scientific approach to media production.

SUBSCRIBE: https://www.stereoforest.com/lab

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