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About Accent Reduction

 

What is an Accent?

Accents generally reveal where we were raised.  One is considered to have an accent when using the sounds and melodies of their native tongue when speaking a new language.  Production of sounds is influenced by muscle tension, placement of  lips and tongue, and amount of mouth opening. This affects production of vowels and consonants, and influences resonance. Combined, they carry over to the new language and result in an  accent.  When accents interfere with communication, they can affect your professional opportunities and social interactions.   

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HOW DOES AN ACCENT AND Dialect DIFFER?

Within speakers of the same language, there are variations in  pronunciation of words, vocabulary choices, resonance, and grammar patterns.  These are usually based on where they were raised. In the US  this has been influenced by the original non-native speakers who settled there in large groups.  Many people choose to modify their dialect  for professional purposes. 

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What is involved in Accent Modification Training?

Accent modification programs are designed to improve verbal communication.  The goal is not to eliminate your accent,  accent but to help you to speak effectively.  We provide an evaluation to identify patterns of differences that interfere with effective communication.  I then design a customized program, training you to identify and produce the necessary changes.  This results in the production of more American sounds and patterns, allows you to be more easily understood, and improves your confidence with your communication skills.  

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WHY IS ACCENT MODIFICATION IMPORTANT FOR YOU?

Clear communication is important both for business and socially.  Time is often wasted repeating or clarifying information in meetings, on the phone or in a teleconference.   This may reflect poorly on you despite your brilliance in other areas.  Poor communication skills can result in glass ceilings for non native speakers.  Improved grammar, pronunciation, word emphasis and syllable stress helps you to be understood more clearly and readily. 

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