The key to a successful audio tour guide is engaging content. A narrative that provokes, relates, reveals and leaves the listener wanting more will win out. So how is this achieved? Firstly, know your audience. For example, children will want something fun and playful with characters they can relate to. Secondly, build your audio trail story on a strong theme and related sub-themes. Thirdly, use more than one voice for variety and interest. Finally, for now, whet your listeners appetite with teasers for the next stop to the next. So, how many different styles of audio delivery are there? Read on.

All audio guides need a script. It may be a full narration with one or more voices sharing the lines. Characterisation can be used to good effect to add colour and a lever a degree of artistic license. Our favourite audio trails usually include oral history or reminiscences. Adding soundbites from experts or locals who intimately know the place or subject you are interpreting adds a unreal level of authenticity. Then enhance all of this in post production with subtle sound effects and/or music to set the mood, and allow the pictures to build in the listener’s mind.