Speaking to Music

Listen to this inspiring talk on TED.com by artist Bill Strickland, who journeyed from being an at-risk youth to the recipient of a MacArthur Genius Award in 1996.



Notice how the music does not distract from Strickland's story, but rather enhances it. The jazz piano gives his voice a rhythm and his intensifies the power of his words so it sounds as almost as though he is reciting poetry.

Next time you are preparing to give a speech, try practicing it with music in the background. Choose a piece that moves you. Something without words that reflects the tone of your presentation.

Now give your speech. As you practice, pay attention to how your voice changes when you speak to music. Practicing with music can add a layer of depth to your presentation style and bring out the underlying rhythm of your text - and your voice.