Charm of a Good Voice.

Otago Witness, Issue 2811, 26 August 1908, Page 53

Charm of a Good Voice.

A girl unconsciously indicates her social place by her voice and manner. N«j charm is so lasting as that of a cultured, well-modulated voice, which, shoiild life proceed hapily, grows more melodious with advancing years. In many young girls' voices there are unexpectedly jarring notes, which ere difficult to subdue because of their irregular occurrence. A good remedy for this defect is to beg some intimate friend or a member of the family — as it will not embarrass them— to stop you when such tones are employed, and allow you to repeat the remark more gently. It is- a kindness to remember when visiting ill or nervous friends that sharp tones have an irritating even a serious, effect upon them. One rarely encounters a harsh-voiced physician, and the secret of the trained nurse's fascination for mankind is not her crisp white frock and coquetish cap, but her care3sirg, confidential, soothing tones. Do not strive to imitate a voice simply because you admire it, for you are scarcely Irkeiy to be successful, and your voice will lose its individuality. Better try to cultivate a low-pitched voice, soft and smooth, liquid, and absolutely distinct, for an uncertain register alwaj's has an underbred sound. Endeavour to soften the voice by speaking slowly. People who talk hastily insensibly raise fheir tones, and fchese in time become positively harsh,, To improve the voice cultivate the virtue of listening, for a good listener is a patient person not prone to ram'd speech. To learn how to listen watch -.some fir«t-class actress, noted for the charm of her sneaking voice as well as for the art of listening.