Description
Book SynopsisWhat goes on
inside a great narrator to make them great? This ground-breaking work answers this question by exploring the psychophysical aspect of voiceover. The reader is given a bird's-eye view of the professional narrator's mental, physical, and vocal machinery as well as an in-depth look at the underlying currents that power it: energy, intention, emotion, connection, and flow.Ideal for allfrom novice to seasoned voiceover proVoiceover Narration inspires the reader to gain a deeper understanding of the nuances of voiceover performance within each narration subgenre, including audiobooks, corporate films, documentaries, e-learning, and explainer videos.With wisdom, humor, and personal anecdotes, Dian Perry shares everything she has learned about narration from decades as a voice actor and teacher. Her advice is supplemented by graphics, worksheets, and a variety of sample text for practice.
Voiceover Narration is a much-needed handbook that guides voice actors in creati
Trade ReviewI am struck by the emphasis on narration and storytelling, as well as an articulation of the mind-body-voice connection ... I have not encountered a VO text that delves deeply into this arena, and it would be exciting to read a detailed account, guidelines, and exercises/analysis of what is actually at play in the mind-body of the speaker. * Christine Woodberry, Boston University School of Theatre, US *
A great book providing an insider’s approach to voiceover narration ... The author is knowledgeable and authoritative about her subject and writes in an approachable and professional way. * David Carey, Voice and Text Director, Oregon Shakespeare Festival, US *
This book is unique and offers an approach, delivered as a step-by-step course, to the field of voice-over/narration work. * Alex Taylor, Head of Voice, Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, UK *
The different areas of voice work require differing vocal and personality strengths and Dian details and defines them clearly. Dian has managed to refine her thoughts and advice on vocal performance and make them easy to put into practice. The book is informative and also incredibly practical, with sample scripts and ideas to implement. She has focused my own self discovery and allowed me to feel freer in performance. * Ana Clements, UK *
Dian Perry brings something new to [the] mix. Psychology first, rather than voice techniques or text analysis … Key ideas are around energy, intention and emotion … If you’re just starting out you’ll find some solid advice to get you off on the right foot. If you’ve been a voiceover for a while, you’ll likely find some interesting new angles to approach a script from. * Natalie Cooper, UK *
Dian Perry has been a voice actor and teacher for over twenty-three years, her knowledge is thorough and comprehensive and the book is an insightful exploration of communication and performance. It is written in an easy, conversational style that speaks directly to the reader. * National Theatre *
Table of ContentsPreface Acknowledgments Introduction Chapter 1 - The Essence of Communication Energy and Vibration Resonance and Connection Flow and Coherence Intro to Mind-Body-Voice The Heart-Brain Connection The 7 Wavelengths of Communication Summary
Chapter 2 - The Foundations of Narration Current Trends Top Down Outside In The Mind-Body-Voice Connection Positioning Identifying the Players In Character The 3 Dials - Intention, Pace, and Formality Visuals and Visualizing We Are How We Speak Viola's Story Narrator Archetypes Transformation - Bella’s Story
Chapter 3 - Projects Audiobooks Audio Description Audio Guides Corporate Films Documentaries E-learning Explainer Videos Holiday Video Tours Interactive Voice Recordings (IVR) Language Training (LT) Medical Museum Display On Hold Messaging Point-of-sale Videos Satellite Navigation (Satnav) Technical
Chapter 4 - Prep Pouring the Foundations Preparing the Text Preparing Mind, Body, and Voice Rehearsing Prep for Audiobooks
Chapter 5 - Performance Alignment and Focus Calibration Getting Heart-centered Switching to Performance Mode Perception - Victor’s Story Incorporating the 7 Wavelengths Translating ‘Client Speak’ Let’s Get Physical (and Emotional) Breathing Managing Nervous Energy Staying in the Flow Silencing the Inner Critic
Chapter 6 - Pitfalls Out of Focus Perfectionism - the Toxic Read Killer Looping Syndrome (or the Self-conscious Read) Bad Habits and How to Break Them The Self-imposed Error Quota Fluffing with Grace Too Many Hats Ghosts of the Past
Chapter 7 - Practice Audiobooks Audio Description Audio Guide (Audio Tour) Corporate Films Documentaries E-learning Explainer Video Holiday Video Tour Interactive Voice Recording (IVR) Language Training (LT) Medical Museum Display On Hold Messaging Point-of-sale Video Satellite Navigation (Satnav) Technical
Chapter 8 - On the Job The Studio The Client The Session The Solo Session The Demo
Words of Wisdom and Final Thoughts Appendix: Narration Toolbox Notes Index