Date: 21/11/2014
Students on the BA Creative Writing and English Literature course have been refining their skills in reading texts aloud.
“As children we love to hear stories read to us, and as adults we often forget the sheer delight that listening to a skilled reader can bring,” said Dr Andrew Cutting, who co-ran the first of several planned workshops with his colleague, Tony Gardner, both senior lecturers in the School of Media, Culture and Communications.
“Like any other skill, the ability to read aloud is something students can improve through conscious practice and constructive feedback. Many of our students are creative writers who will want to present their own work at readings, while others aim to become teachers and will need to read to their pupils. Reading aloud during seminars can help develop students’ confidence and at the same time their skills of critical analysis, so it’s a regular part of good teaching practice in our subject area.”
The workshop included sessions in the refurbished Radio Studio.
First-year student Alessia Galatini said: “After some playful vocal warm-ups, including miaow-ing in each other’s face, I found the Studio environment was both professional and stimulating. I realised that standing up and reading becomes less terrifying every time, the more you practise. It was a productive afternoon and I look forward to the next workshop.”
