Newest Simplified Elocution : Edwin Gordon Lawrence

Simplified Elocution : Edwin Gordon Lawrence
c. 1895 by Edwin Gordon Lawrence
Hardcover
SIGNED BY THE AUTHOR
Measures : 7 1/2" tall x 5" wide x 3/4" thick


In cultivating the voice we must pay particular attention to detail, both as to the mechanical and intellectual part of the work, for it is only by attending to little things that we can expect to master the more difficult branches of the art. We must first furnish a good instrument; but with most persons the voice is out of order and requires thorough overhauling. What is the cause of this noble instrument requiring readjusting? One little word will fully answer — misuse. And what will readjust this grand organ of sound? Practice. Work, and hard work, is absolutely essential if vocal defects are to be corrected. We must remember that the voice cannot be built up in a day, but that months of care ful training under a skillful master is the only means to adopt if good results are to be expected. We should experience no pain or trouble whatever when speaking, and every tone of the voice should be produced without apparent effort. Deep breathing requires an effort, but it must not be perceptible to the audience. A very vital point is to control the breath and not allow it to rush through the larynx without being converted into sound. This will be dwelt upon and explained among the exercises.

In cultivating the voice we must first find out the medium register, and then work below and above it. How are we to do this? By taking the ordinary speaking voice as a guide and gradually working the voice as far above and below this tone as possible. In a very little while the student will find that his medium register is changing. And why is this? Because in most instances the student newest has habitually (not naturally)