ABSTRACT
Think of technique as the tools of your trade, and there are always new techniques to study and learn. The application or use of any technique is something that becomes very personal over a period of time as the process of the technique evolves into a style that is uniquely yours. A voiceover technique is really nothing more than a skill you develop or a process that you use that allows you to become a better performer. Sure, you can do voiceover without mastering any skills, or you may already have an innate ability with many of them. However, having an understanding of basic acting and voiceover techniques gives you the knowledge necessary to work efficiently under the pressure of a recording session-and to make your performance more real and believable. As a voice actor, your job is to give life to the words in a script. The writer had a sound in mind when writing the script and you must find that sound by making the words compelling, interesting, real and believable. Technique is the foundation for your performance. It is the structure on which your character, attitude, and delivery are built. Technique must be completely unconscious. The moment you begin thinking about technique, the illusion is broken and the moment is lost. As you study and learn the techniques in this book, you will find yourself at first thinking a lot about what you are doing. Be careful not to get too analytical as you work with these concepts. Just know that these techniques work. They are much like a frog… you can dissect the thing, but it will die in the process. As you gain experience and become more comfortable, your technique will become automatic, and you will be able to adapt quickly to changes without having to think. Acting techniques are much like riding a bicycle. Once you’ve mastered the process, it becomes automatic. Voice exercises can help you develop and perfect your acting techniques. Chapter 5, “Using Your Instrument,” includes many exercises, tips, and suggestions for improving your voice and developing your skills.
