Using a Microphone

      I will discuss the use of handheld as well as clip-on microphones and some information on purchasing a sound system.

     Handheld : There are basically two types of handheld microphones, both of which come as either corded or cordless. Whether you choose corded or cordless will depend on how much you like to move around. Cordless Microphones do use a battery so be advised to have extras on hand during a performance. I have had the batteries quit in the middle of a program.                                             

         The first type of cordless is the unidirectional. This microphone only really picks up the sound of your voice and filters out any surrounding background noise. I prefer this for speaking. The second type is  omni directional . This is used most often by musicians who wish to pick up the sounds of all the instruments around it, and is good if you sing with a group of people or play and sing.  Both types of handheld are fine and require little thought when using them. See word of general cautions in the third column.           

Use the following links for more storytelling tips.

Facial expression, eye contact, body movement

Microphone use

Finding stories to tell

      Clip-on: Using a clip-on microphone requires more thoughtfulness and planning. First, you will need to consider how you dress. Expensive mics will pick up sound when clipped to your chest area, ones of lesser quality need to be closer to your mouth. A V-neck sweater is not advisable for the latter. Second, you will need a place to clip the box, or a pocket to put it in. I once had to wear it in my panty hose because I didn't plan my clothing for the performance.  Another problem presented by clip-on mics is head movement. While they allow you to move somewhat freely and are best if you use your hands a lot during performance, they often cut out when you turn your head away from the center. I use a clip-on when showing artifacts or using an instrument or puppet. I use a stand mic for all other performances and have learned to do many of my usual arm and hand movements either around the mic or with one hand. I just like to sound better.                

Buying a Good System

       Most storytellers will find that the venues they tell in have microphones and sound systems. While I had found this to be true in most cases, I have also been in places where none were available, or situations where I needed a clip-on but they didn't have any. I began with a guitar amp and a Nady clip-on system. The system came with a mic and transmitter. The guitar amp gave me enough sound for most venues but little control over sound quality or other device hookups. I still have the Nady after 18 years and it works great. However, I have since purchased what I consider to be a great little, portable sound system. I own a Fender Passport  P150 Deluxe. The unit comes as one compact case that has two speaker clipped on it. It also came with a Fender mic and cord. You can even buy poles on which to hang the speakers high if you need to. I do not own the poles. I did buy two mic stands (one with a boom for guitar) and a Shure mic and cord. I've now had this system for about 10 years. I carry it on a luggage card. I have had both handheld mics, the clip-on and a CD player hooked up to the system at the same time. It also allows for sound quality control on each channel. The Passport P150 Deluxe runs about $600, but there are other less expensive and more expensive models. I highly recommend it. I could not be happier. 

General Cautions:           

      1. If you are going to speak loudly, move slightly away from the mic. I know of at least one teller who screams into the mic and I find it very hard on my ears.                    

      2. You can let other people use your mic if you want but I resist letting children try it. Although I try not to actual touch my mouth to the mic, I do sometimes. Think of all those germs. 

      3. If using a stand, do not just move the arms. Unscrew the bolts, then move the arm. Doing otherwise will strip the threads and before you know it, your mic will slip away from your placement.  

     4. Use a mic. Some people are afraid of them but even if you feel you project your voice well, there may be someone who is hard-of-hearing in the audience. They want to hear your story too. My general rule is that my mic is with me if I need it and I always use it for audiences of 50 people or more. I have used it for smaller audiences when there is a lot of background noise. 

      5. Never turn your head away from the mic. You can turn your whole body slightly but the mic has to be in front of your face.

You can buy the Fender Passport from www.americanmusical.com or check for other sources.                                      .