This character needs no introduction.

The reason I love revisiting Gandalf’s voice from time to time, is that it always gives me a good idea of how my own vocal range has changed over the years. Trying to reproduce even some of the most well know lines of J.R.R. Tolkien’s character is no joke. Especially when we’re talking about Sir Ian McKellen’s incarnation.

Still, I feel much more comfortable experimenting with the voice now, in my late twenties, than I did back in my late teens. Proper vocal technique has greatly reduced the level of effort necessary for me to deliver a believable line. The strain on my vocal cords has also lessened significantly with practice. So much so, that I no longer feel like Sauron has used his spiky, metal-plated arm to shove an unpeeled pineapple down my throat, all the way up to his elbow, after I’ve been recording for an extended period of time.

Day 5 – Gandalf (Ian McKellen) – The Lord of the Rings film trilogy

What are some of your favorite Mithrandir quotes? Add your own “YOU SHALL NOT PASS!” moment in the comments section below.