How can i improve my accent?

Question

Okay so - i've lived in England all my life but i've moved around a bit so my accent is sort of messed up - its sounds mostly northern (which im not too fond of).

Im most probably going to be in he south next year - so how can i get a 'neutral' British accent? - without making it too noticable? thankyou =]

Answer 1

I would say 'don't worry about that'

differences in accent will tell people that you're an experienced person, who has lived in many different places...

it may be interesting, you should be proud of it

Answer 2

After you are there for a while, your accent will probably become more neutral. But you can also have a few lessons from a speech teacher, who will tell you how to practise to make yourself more aware. It can help if you imagine yourself speaking like a specific person whose accent you like -- instead of just trying to sound like you're from London.

Often, a difference in accent is caused by a different way of forming the vowels in the mouth, for example if you open your mouth wide or keep your jaw tighter. Does that apply to the way you speak vs. the way you'd like to speak? Think of the way Londoners say "London," with the first syllable almost sounding like "Lahn." The whole shape of the mouth is different to the way someone from the north would do.

Answer 3

Listen to Queen Elizabeth's speech, go to the theatre, read classic books aloud, hear stories of the past...