Organizer:
Location: Rue des Savoises 15 La Maison Internationale des Associations Geneva 1205 CH
Workshop Description
One of the most crucial tools for conference interpreters is their voice. As interpreters, our voices are the primary means of conveying messages and communicating effectively. A well-trained voice enhances clarity, projection, and endurance—essential qualities for simultaneous interpreting. The better our voices sound, the more pleasant and professional the experience will be for our clients.
However, the voice is a delicate instrument, requiring proper care and technique to withstand long working hours under extreme stress—especially in the current landscape where remote simultaneous interpreting is becoming increasingly prevalent. Despite its importance, voice training is often overlooked in interpreter education, leaving many professionals without the essential knowledge to maintain and optimize their vocal performance.
Workshop Structure
This workshop is designed in two parts:
1. Group Training:
Participants will receive an introductory session on fundamental vocal techniques, including:
- Proper breathing methods, utilizing the diaphragm to create a well-supported airflow for effortless vocal production.
- Breathing and articulation exercises to strengthen diaphragmatic support.
- Posture alignment in the interpreting booth to open up resonators and enhance voice quality.
- Correct placement of consonants and vowels across different languages.
- Voice projection techniques to ensure interpreters can speak at an optimal pitch and volume without strain—helping to prevent vocal fatigue during long workdays.
2. Individual Coaching:
Each participant will receive personalized guidance, including:
- A voice diagnosis to identify any existing issues or inefficient habits.
- Tailored corrections to improve voice placement, breathing, and projection.
- Real-time demonstrations where fellow participants can observe and learn from individual coaching sessions.
Registration fee:
Registration fee for non-members of AIIC – CHF 200.00 (EURO 216.00)
Trainer: Hans Werner Mühle
Hans Werner Mühle is a seasoned freelance conference interpreter and a member of AIIC since 1992. He has taught interpretation at various universities, including Zürich, La Laguna, Strasbourg, Johannesburg, and Glendon York (Toronto). Currently, he teaches at Glendon MCI and has led multiple AIIC Training CPD courses across South America—always integrating voice coaching into his interpreter training.
Hans has conducted voice coaching seminars worldwide, both online and in-person, including sessions in Geneva, Winterthur, Strasbourg, Panama, Bogotá, and Mexico.
Alongside his interpreting career, Hans trained as an opera singer at the Heidelberg School of Music, continuing his vocal development while working for European institutions. He has performed on stage in opera productions and concerts specializing in German repertoire.
With extensive expertise in voice training, Hans offers invaluable insights into the mechanics of the interpreter’s voice. His coaching addresses posture improvement (using Alexander Technique), voice projection refinement, and adjustments for high-pitched voices—helping interpreters sound more pleasant and confident to their audience.
