Week One - Julia Gillard's Voice

According to Mick Hurbis-Cherrier, 'If characters discuss the story they are in, rather then just being in it, then the audience has no reason to become emotionally involved in the unfolding tale. Believable and engaging characters inhabit, act and react within the world of voice and the events that swirl around them, (2012, pp.38).’ This remark from Hurbis-Cherrier, identifies with the comments made by voice coach Lucy Cornell and 2UE journalists Murray Olds and Murray Wilton during their 2UE radio program. Julia Gillard’s voice and her delivery of speech do not indulge nor involve the audience. It often comes across as just a sound and the content and value of the speech is lost. I some what agree with the comments made by the 2UE hosts and voice coach, in the sense that Julia Gillard has “a mind of a barrister and a voice of a bricky (2UE, n.d).” She is an intelligent woman probably with a lot of important remarks to make. However her voice, referred to as a ‘bogan’ voice, does not allow these remarks to be effectively heard. Her unusual voice that according to Lucy Cornell “lacks warmth and depth (2UE, n.d),” is often difficult to listen to. Voice coach Lucy Cornell asked, “If her voice where more like Cate Blanchett’s voice would it be more appealing (2UE, n.d)?” I think the answer to this, would be yes. Cate Blanchett’s voice is warm and intriguing. It is easy and soothing to listen to. Lucy Cornell also said that people like to listen to others “Opening and revealing that human part of them selves, and daring to be that brave and revealing and therefore it becomes inspirational (2UE, n.d).” Julia Gillard does not do this and her speeches often sound generic and repetitive.

Reference:

Hurbis-Cherrier, M, 2012, Voice and Vision, second edition, ELSEVIER, Sydney.

Olds M, Wilton M, n.d, Julia Gillard’s Voice, viewed 24 February 2014, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CEybGzg1Nxs