Voice is a series of air vibrations. To strengthen it two things are necessary:

more air or breath, and more vibration.

 

Breath is the very basis of voice. As a bullet with little powder behind it will

not have force and carrying power, so the voice that has little breath behind it

will be weak. Not only will deep breathing--breathing from the diaphragm--give

the voice a better support, but it will give it a stronger resonance by

improving the general health.

 

Usually, ill health means a weak voice, while abundant physical vitality is

shown through a strong, vibrant voice. Therefore anything that improves the

general vitality is an excellent voice strengthener, provided you _use_ the

voice properly. Authorities differ on most of the rules of hygiene but on one

point they all agree: vitality and longevity are increased by deep breathing.

Practise this until it becomes second nature. Whenever you are speaking, take in

deep breaths, but in such a manner that the inhalations will be silent.

 

Do not try to speak too long without renewing your breath. Nature cares for this

pretty well unconsciously in conversation, and she will do the same for you in

platform speaking if you do not interfere with her premonitions.

 

A certain very successful speaker developed voice carrying power by running

across country, practising his speeches as he went. The vigorous exercise forced

him to take deep breaths, and developed lung power. A hard-fought basketball or

tennis game is an efficient way of practising deep breathing. When these methods