CHORAL SPEAKING TECHNIQUES

PITCH: vary the pitch of voices (high pitch or low pitch)

PACE: the speed at which you talk can show character and emotion. A slow rate
can show old age, important ideas, emotions such as sorrow, doubt,
contemplation, respect. A fast rate can show youth, spontaneity and emotions
such as excitement, happiness and anger.

PAUSE: a deliberate silence inserted between words within a line or between

lines within a stanza to allow reflection or build suspense

VOLUME: varying delivery of words and lines, quiet and loud.

EMPHASIS: created through volume, pause, repetition or tone of voice.

REPETITION: repetition of a word, phrase, line or sound (i.e. alliteration,

assonance).

ECHO: deliberate repetition of a word or phrase for effect. May repeat once or to
fade.

CALL AND RESPONSE: a question and answer or statement and reply, perhaps
between two speakers or between two groups of speakers

ANTIPHONY: a division into two groups where each sings alternately.

WHISPER: select words or phrases for effect.

UNISON: all speakers speak together.

CRESCENDO: beginning soft and getting louder.

DIMINUENDO: beginning loud and getting softer.

CHANT/SINGING: can build pace or create rising tension.

SOLO: a single line or stanza delivered by one speaker.

LINE-AROUND: a different speaker delivers each line.

TONE: vary tone mid-line or for different phrases (creates emphasis or shows
emotion or conflict).

GESTURE , MOVEMENT and PERCUSSION (e.g. clapping)