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Pitch is the range of sounds from high to low (or vice versa). Vocal pitch is important in speechmaking because it powerfully affects the meaning associated with spoken words. For example, say “stop.” Now, say “Stop!” Hear the difference? This rising and falling of vocal pitch across phrases and sentences, termed intonation, conveys two very distinct meanings.

As you speak, pitch conveys your mood, level of enthusiasm, concern for the audience, and overall commitment to the occasion. When there is no variety in pitch, speaking becomes monotonous—a death knell to any speech.