Learn the Chicago Accent

(51.2MB, 105 minutes) 2011 Edition

This download includes a written examination of how to learn the Chicago accent, and the following sound files featuring Accent Help coach Jim Johnson:

Play Audio Sample:

1. Introduction to Sound Placement, Intonation and Helpful Hints (7:18)
2. Consonant sound changes for learning a Chicago accent (16:59)
3. Vowel sound changes in Chicago accents (11:13)
4. changes in Diphthongs for speaking with a Chicago accent (3:56)
5. Pronunciation of a number of words in a Chicago accent (4:12)
6. Wrap up to learning to speak with a Chicago accent (2:44)
7. Southwest side Chicago Male reading (:47)
8. + his conversation (8:10)
9. South side Chicago Female reading (1:10)
10. + her conversation (6:46)
11. Northwest side Chicago Policeman reading (:54)
12. + his conversation (6:22)
13. North side Chicago Female reading (:57)
14. + her conversation (5:27)
15. West side Chicago Male conversation (profanity) (9:27)
16. Humboldt Park - a Chicago neighborhood - Female reading (1:37)
17. + her conversation (8:10)
18. Wrigleyville (neighborhood in Chicago near the Cubs' Wrigley Field) Male reading (1:28)
19. + his conversation (7:11)

Chicago accents are similar to the Upper Midwestern accents, but there is an urban element that is present in the classic Chicago accent.  It is certainly distinct from the stereotypical sound of other Illinois residents.  It actually shares a number of elements with the Brooklyn accent, but if anyone is familiar with them, the difference is quite strong. 

Though these sound files have been remastered to reduce background noise, most of these recordings are made "in the field" so you will hear such things as birds, cars or other people in the background.  A transcription of the conversations is included to help you follow along. This download also contains four versions of the written materials:  A printer-friendly pdf, a pdf that is in a larger format for use on a portable reading device, and both mobi and epub editions for other portable readers.