So You Want To Be A Music Interpreter?

Facilitators: Paula Cox & Vicky Pannell
1.5 Structured CPD Point | Delivered in English (BSL Interpreter available on request
£50 + booking fees
(If you can not attend the dates shown, please click either green arrow which will take you to the next page to register where you can register your interest in future dates)

So You Want To Be An Interpreter: The Art & Graft of Performance Interpreting

Overview & Purpose

This 1.5hour interactive workshop provides an honest, practical insight into the world of performance interpreting. Facilitated by experienced interpreters and assessors Paula Cox and Vicky Pannell, the session explores the realities of working in live shows, festivals, and music events, balancing expectations with preparation, teamwork, and industry demands. Participants will gain a realistic view of what it takes to succeed in performance interpreting, including the practical, logistical, and interpersonal challenges.

The workshop is designed to be practical, engaging, and honest, with time for Q&A at the end. Delivered via Zoom , it combines discussion, case studies, and real-life examples from performances.

Who Is It For?

• TSLIs, and TSLTs, Level 6, RSLI’s, RSLT's (new to performance work)
• Volunteers, trainees, or interpreters considering moving into performance work
• Anyone wanting an insider perspective on interpreting live music, theatre, or performance events

What the Workshop Covers

• Motivations: Exploring why people pursue performance interpreting – prestige, fame, money, love of performing, or access
• Expectations vs Reality: Practical challenges including:
• Prep time, material, cost vs workload
• Venue logistics – sound, lighting, space, interpreter placement, audience visibility
• Working with production teams, co-workers, and audience expectations
• Selection process
• Honing interpreting skills before moving into performance work
• Understanding the role of teamwork and infrastructure in the music and performance industry
• Audience & Customer Perspective: Insights from Deaf customers and their expectations
• No-nonsense Approach: Real examples of what works and what doesn’t, avoiding “glitter and glamour”

Learning Objectives

By the end of this workshop, participants will have:

• A clear understanding of the journey to becoming a performance interpreter
• Explored the practical skills and preparation required for live performance work
• Understood the expectations and challenges of working in live shows and festivals
• Considered teamwork, co-working, and audience needs
• Reflected on their personal motivations and suitability for performance interpreting

Format & Logistics

• Duration: 1.5 hours (including Q&A)
• Delivery: Online via Zoom
• Class Size: Maximum 14 participants
• £50.00 per person + booking fees