AUDACITY

a tool in vocal and pronunciation training

byAssoc. Prof. Ainol Haryati Ibrahim

ainol66@gmail.com

3 factors in Vocal Variety

1. volume - refers to the intensity of the voice

2. pitch - refers to the relative highness or lowness of the voice

3. rate – refers to the number of words uttered in a specific time frame, e.g. words per minute

The Importance of Vocal Variety

Vocal variety is essential to underscore and reinforce the message

In speaking, volume and pitch need to be varied to signal changes in the meanings of the sentences

Changes in rate at different times during the speech are effective in adding emphasis

Pronunciation

Pronunciation refers to the way sounds and words are produced

Errors in pronunciation could occur when the stress is put on the wrong syllable, or pronouncing sounds that should remain silent

Pronunciation may also be influenced by regional dialect

PRACTICE IN PUBLIC SPEAKING

Practice enables individuals to identify and address speech-related problems or concerns prior to delivery

It is “one of the most important factors in confident speaking for speakers at all levels of experience” (Fujishin, 2009; p25)

Audacity

You can use Audacity to: Record live audio. Convert tapes and records into digital

recordings or CDs. Edit Ogg Vorbis, MP3, WAV or AIFF sound

files. Cut, copy, splice or mix sounds together. Change the speed or pitch of a recording.

Creating the audio file

Download audio recording software or digital audio editor :

1. Audacity http://audacity.sourceforge.net/2. LAME encoder (to allow MP3 exportation)http://lame.sourceforge.net/index.php

Audacity Website

AUDACITY for WINDOWS

DOWNLOADING AUDACITY

LAME Encoder

Downloading LAME

LAME on AUDACITY Wiki

Create the audio file

To record at the computer, the following are required :1. soundcard2. microphone + headset

*Ensure that the equipment is properly plugged in and is functioning*

Creating an audio file using Audacity

1. Connect the equipment

2. Launch Audacity

3. Record the audio file

Creating an audio file using Audacity

4. Edit vocal content

5. Add music and finishing touches NOTE: Get an appropriate license when using

commercial music for whatever reason (including as background)

6. Export the file to MP3 format (use

LAME)

Recording with Audacity

Saving the file in MP3 format

Link to the complete tutorial on how to use Audacity and LAME:-

http://lame.buanzo.com.ar/tut/lame_tutorial_en/index.html

Posting the audio files

Social networks e.g. Multiply.com Blogs Wikis

Thank you