Best Scottish voice

Published on Tuesday 17 March 2009 18:46

KEN STOTT Born in Edinburgh in 1955 and trained at the Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts in London.

I first saw Ken Stott in BBC Scotland's 1994 drama series Takin' over the Asylum. I thought he was a beautifully honest actor, but it was his natural, gravelly voice that really made me notice him. Although undoubtedly Scottish, Stott's diction and depth make listening to him mesmerising.

BILL PATERSON Born in Glasgow in 1945 and trained at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama in his is home city.

Described as distinctive, authoritative, recognisable and reassuring, what more could a casting director look for in a commercial or narrative voiceover? Although gentler than Ken Stott, he still maintains his Scottish identity and when you book Bill Paterson's voice, that's exactly what you get: no accents, no mimicry – just Bill Paterson.

HANNAH GORDON Born in Edinburgh in 1941 and trained at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama in Glasgow.

There are few female Scottish voiceover artists who inspire me. Without wishing to offend the entire nation, I find most female broadcasters irritating. The majority have voices that have not been trained, and are high and rushed, but Ms Gordon has that lovely warm lilt, without the current trend of breathiness.

DAVID TENNANT Born in Bathgate in 1971, Tennant was also trained at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama.

Even at his relatively young age, Tennant has a wonderful ability to adapt to the job in hand. Whether using his natural speaking voice, or a chosen regional dialect, he seems to be able to draw the listener into believing the identity.

BRIAN COX Born in Dundee in 1946, and trained at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art after spells at Dundee Repertory Theatre and Birmingham Repertory Theatre.

Another one of those wonderfully believable voices, but one that is not always immediately identifiable. Brian Cox is what I would describe as a "pure actor". He totally adopts each part, so his tones are not instantly recognisable when you hear them. Again, he has a superbly trained and adaptable voice, and is an actor who understands how to envelop his listener.

&#149 Steve Hamilton is a broadcaster and founder of The VoiceCoach, helping people make the most of their voice. www.thevoice coach.co.uk