Well I sing ballads all the time, and a lot depends on the audience and the venue. It has to be a quiet room, so people can follow the storyline, and I always give a lot of background and sketch out the plot if I think my listeners might not be familiar with the song. It helps to keep eye contact with the audience - don't close your eyes and go off into your own little world. You have to remember you are telling a story. Pacing, timing, emphasis (keep it subtle - you don't want to sound like Barbra Streisand)are all important, and focus on communicating with the listeners. Project your voice and enunciate clearly - you don't want the audience to have to struggle to understand you so they can follow the plot. The storyline helps me to remember the verses, and I usually borrow from different versions to put my own spin on the ballad.

Most importantly, listen to the great ballad singers like Jeannie Robertson, Duncan Williamson, Sheena Wellington, Geordanna McCulloch, and Anne Neilson, who posted above. I took Anne and Geordanna's workshop several years ago in Glasgow and it was wonderful and inspiring. The most important thing I think, is to love the ballad, and make sure that comes through to the audience.

I'm doing a ballad concert next month, and am really looking forward to it!