How we change what others think, feel, believe and do

Voice Roll

Techniques > Public speaking > Voice Roll

Description | Example | Discussion | See also

Description

The 'voice roll' is a technique used to create a trance-like state in an audience by using patterns that occur at a regular rate, typically 45 to 60 per second.

The pattern can be in the use of pauses, emphasis, repetition of a key word or any combination. It may be in the foreground or may be in the background and may even be in time to music. It can run for a short time or for somewhat longer.

The voice roll itself may include the key content or this may appear in other ways, from a voice-over to handing around a collection plate.

Example

Now listen here...I'm telling you...you've got to...let yourself go...let yourself free...in order to receive...the will from above...

Are you ready now, are you really ready, because when you are ready, you can step up, you can step in, and you can step out.

Discussion

The beat rate of 45-60 repetitions per minute is intended to align with and cause alpha rhythms in the brain, which are associated with a relaxation, meditation and trance.

This method is particularly popular in some forms of religious ceremony, where it is used to send the audience (who may already be half-way there) into an ecstatic trance state.