Vocal mannerisms

Question:

I am 17 and many people think I am gay because of my voice, but I am not gay. What can I do to get rid of my gay accent?

Answer:

First, it is important to establish that there is not a “gay” sound. There is as great a diversity of vocal timbre and expression in the homosexual community as in any other.

Second, it is important to establish that it is not compassionate or noble to diminish any people because of the quality of their voice or their sexual orientation.

Men and women alike have vocal mannerisms, and they can be changed. First, you need to determine the cause. Perhaps the pitch of the speaking voice sits a little high, perhaps the phonation is under-energized, perhaps there is a lack of full resonance, especially in the chest. You might also have habits with the articulators – the tongue, lips and jaw – that cause certain patterns in the way you speak.

Once you understand what is causing the patterns and habits you have, working for a balanced phonation, full resonance, natural pitch and efficient articulation will create a fairly neutral speaking pattern.

If the patterns persist, you will need to consider role models, emotional patterns and other non-physical influences.

Because the way you speak has become a reflex it is possible that it could take hours and hours of conscious practice to shift it. If it is important to you, try to do your practice first thing every day, and to be frequent with your repetition. You do not have to practice for long periods of time. 10 minutes, 3 times/day for a year is better than 3 hours, 1 time/week.