Finding Your Performance Poetry Voice

When I used to read poems in college coffeehouses, I thought they should be read like a Shakespearian actor, with intense drama that demanded attention. “Foul wretched soul... BE GONE!”… Haha… I’ve come a long way (I hope)! Although this CAN give your words wings, overdoing it can work AGAINST you. This blog is about finding your performance poetry VOICE. 

Your voice as a performance poet carries just as much weight as the poem itself. It’s all that’s between you and the audience, providing the surface on which to drive your message. Your job is to keep it a smooth one. Here are a few important things to remember:

1.) Volume is important first of all. If they can’t hear you, distraction sets in. In public speaking this is known as projection… speaking to the back row and into the peanut gallery above. Let them know you are THERE… going with a soft tone for subtle poems or lines, getting loud for exclamation where it counts.

2.) Inflection follows… it sets the scene for words or phrases. The proper pronunciation is part of this… always being aware of the next word and the next emotion you intend to convey. Inflection, or emphasizing particular passages or words, packs the punch when you need it… or whispers vulnerability or sentiment.

3.) If you use accents, use them sparingly. You can instantly ruin a great reading by donning a fake accent! If properly used, they can be incorporated with great effect in conjunction with the message of the poem. Otherwise, try to avoid them. Be yourself! DO NOT GO OVER THE TOP… it’s a long fall over the edge of over-exuberance! Audiences sense inauthenticity.

4.) Breath is everything. Silence speaks following profound statements that you want to resound within the minds of those listening. A touch of quiet also allows you, as the performer,  to catch your breath and maintain a focus. Breaks are found in music. They are just as effective in poetry.

Volume. Inflection. Proper pronunciation. Tone. Accents. Breath. Breaks. Maintaining focus. These are all effective means to a successful end in taking your poetry on another level to an audience.

Did you enjoy this article? Can you add anything to it? I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below and let me know what you think! Thank you for reading and should you get out there performing… shake a leg! Hey… it worked for Elvis…

Matt Elmore

Image from: Unsplash