Yes, l teach the Standard North American accent. You learn the standard North American accent that you hear in movies and on TV, which is not taught in English language classes. No more having to repeat yourself. Isn’t that wonderful?

BUSINESS PROFESSIONALS: Converse confidently with clients, employees and co-workers

PUBLIC SPEAKERS & EDUCATORS: Communicate with everyone in your audience or classroom, whether it’s a group of 2 or 2000

MEDIA PROFESSIONALS: Have success on television news programs, entertainment shows and in your own videos.

MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS: It is vital to all medical professionals to be clear and concise in their speech with all patients.

This is impossible to determine. Everyone is different, some learn in a few lessons, others may take weeks or months.

It depends upon which consonants and vowels need to be modified and how well you process and use these new sounds. The melody is also important to an accent. We will incorporate this into every lesson.

Also, it’s most helpful to you to be surrounded by the accent you wish to acquire. Hopefully, you can practice every day by speaking to people or even watching television!

After our first hour of class, you’ll hear some degree of transformation.

You may, depending on:
Age
First language
Original accent
Opportunity to practice daily
Proficiency for reproducing sound
Dedication to the process
Desire

For accent reduction, most people simply wish to be understood by their listeners, minimizing any confusion or bias. Sounding 100% to any accent is more intensive and challenging. I cannot say you will be 100% or not, I have had some foreign born students who have succeeded in this, but they are exceptional.

Once a week or more or even less. It depends on your needs and resources.

We will preselect your days and times and they will be held for you once payment is made.

Yes, all classes are conducted virtually, so you can work from any city or country.

Yes, they are. From the comfort of your home or office computer, your focus is completely on my voice, mouth and face. There is less distraction and you can comfortably see, up close, what I am doing to make a sound. And I also have the luxury of seeing and hearing you in the same way. I have a very sharp ear and a great headset, so every slight sound you make is crystal clear to me.

Also, since you are recording the video and audio of all our sessions, reviewing your classes is an excellent tool that intensifies your learning process. You can now see and hear what you were doing and how certain sounds and behaviors were weaker or stronger.

It is the relationship that we create that is the key to your learning. It is comfortable, safe and pleasant. The physical distance between us is never felt. It’s quite amazing, really.

Usually, we work on 1 or 2 new sounds per session. This depends, of course, on your aptitude and how well you can process the information. It may be a Vowel sound change, like the Short A, as in CAT or the TH sound, as in THANKS. You should then have some time between this class and the next to practice your new sounds, perhaps a week. The subsequent class may be a quick review of the previous lesson, to ensure that you are grasping the sounds perfectly and then I will introduce a new sound or sounds.

I will send you all the text that you need for class. There is no book for you to purchase. And it is extremely beneficial if you can provide me with your particular career’s vocabulary, if you need accent reduction for business. I will incorporate your words and phrases into the lesson so you are 100% confident about speaking in the workplace.

Accent reduction is really accent modification. Every language and regional accent has its own rules for pronunciation of consonants and vowels, and intonation. In accent reduction classes, you learn how to refashion your particular use of sound to match the majority of those around you, so they understand you better. We aim for what is commonly called, the “Standard” or “General” North American accent.

Monday – Friday: 9:00am EST (0900 h EST) – final class at 5:30pm EST (1730 h EST)

Saturdays: 10:00am EST (1000 h EST) – final class at 12:00pm EST (1200 h EST)

And because life is full of surprises, some exceptions to this schedule are allowed.

In order to proceed with great success in any business or social situation, you need to have a clear idea how others perceive you. Your personality is conveyed through behavior, voice and physical being. And very often you aren’t aware of the signals that truly represent you or unfortunately, misrepresent you.

SLOW BLINKING: Closing your eyes for a second too long while listening and speaking, gives the illusion that you are bored, arrogant and annoyed.

PLAYING WITH HAIR: Twirling of strands is childish. It indicates insecurity and is inappropriate for women who need to inspire confidence.

UPSPEAK: This upward vocal inflection at the end of statements makes you appear insecure. It translates to the listener as, “Please tell me I am worthy of your listing to me”, “I hope you are listening to me” or “I am unsure of my information”.

On the positive side, you need to know your strengths.

GOOD POSTURE: A good seated position, strong stance and stride indicate confidence and self-respect.

NODDING: While listening to a speaker, the occasional slight nod indicates that you are truly interested in what is being said and their information is fully comprehended.

PROPER DICTION & GRAMMAR: This is a wonderful audio display of confidence and intellect.

Usually, we begin the Personal Awareness process while focusing on your voice. Perhaps you have an upcoming presentation or job interview. We would incorporate your own behavior into the vocal lesson.

Payment depends on the circumstances. The options are Paypal, check or wire transfer.

I require a minimum notice of 6 hours for cancelation.

Please send an email, it’s easiest for me to respond that way. Be sure to be very specific with what information you require.