recorded interview

[echokilo]

i would like to record an interview with my eldery great aunt so that i can preserve her memories ........... what equipment do you suggest now that we no longer have cassette recorders?

[dot.hawkes]

the equipment should be unobtrusive, a dictaphone is ideal, whatyou mustn't do is ask her specific questions, I did an interview with my dad in 1998, i just asked him to talk about his childhood, i used a casette of course, i have almost 180 minutes of him talking and it ia pricel;ess, but it's the info you get to read between the lines, it a amazing, always make sure the person is relaxed, and subty prompt them, don;t talk in dates and facts, let them tell their own story. transcribe it word for word in hard copy, it is amazing what you miss otherwise, that takes alot of time but it worth it. transfer it it CD and you have an amazing momento. i can't pluck up the courage to listen to my dad's voice now that he is gon, but one day i will.

[echokilo]

Hi Dot - of course, a dictaphone ... why didn't I think of that! I will sort one out.
I hope you are able to listen to your dad one day, I realise it must be heard but how wonderful that you still have his memories to listen to

Thanks for you reply
EK x