Special to the Homer Independent Press

At the recent Salmonfest, music lovers may have noticed songs being interpreted into American Sign Language on stage. Tapping into the full energy and emotion behind headliner lyrics, ASL interpreter Chelsea Carpenter worked to make performances accessible to the Deaf community.

A good interpreter accurately communicates the message between Deaf and hearing people while remaining respectful, neutral and professional,” Carpenter said.

So many musicians brought talent to Salmon Fest 2026 and a few were especially resonant with Carpenter, who translated headliners for the third time this season. Positive lyrics and messages of community by Hip Hop and harp duo Kuf Knots and Christine Elise were a favorite to translate, she said. Fun rhythms and tunes by both indie artist Goth Babe and bluegrass-inspired band Trampled by Turtles kept interpretation lively.

Preparation to interpret music is more intense than you might think. Carpenter teams up with another interpreter for the performances, and both buckle down for two months to study lyrics.

“We don’t just get up and start signing. It’s necessary to study the core meaning of each song,” she said. “There’s a lot of poetry in music, and if we sign English word for word, it doesn’t make sense to a Deaf audience. We have to know what the English idioms mean and understand the whole meaning of a song before we are able to accurately interpret that into ASL.”

Before the festival, Carpenter emailed managers asking for a set list in advance.

“When we don’t have a set list, we look up all the songs we think might be played at Salmon Fest and study the lyrics,” she said. Having the song list ahead of time allows interpreters to prepare for themes and musical nuances so we can provide the most accurate and meaningful interpretation for everyone attending.”

Emotion and musical intention can be communicated well when an interpreter has an excellent understanding of the energy behind the lyrics.

“An interpreter becomes a bridge, making sure the Deaf and hard-of-hearing can experience the story, passion, and connection that music creates,” Carpenter said. “Every movement, facial expression and choice is made to reflect the heart of the song, creating an experience that is as meaningful and engaging as the one heard by the audience. Interpreting music isn’t just about signing — it’s about bringing the music to life. It’s about translating not only the words, but also the emotion, rhythm, energy, and intention behind every performance.”

After graduating with an Associates in Arts in American Sign Language Interpreting from Pierce Community College, Carpenter began working as an ASL interpreter in the community. She interpreted doctor appointments, English and art college classes, and occasionally performance events. Carpenter also remembers interpreting for ceramics class.

“Make sure you choose to interpret things you’re really comfortable with and feel skilled at so you can provide the best interpretation,” she said.

Carpenter transitioned into ASL services for K-12 education upon receiving the EIPA (Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment) state certification with a 4.0, permitting her to translate all subjects in the school system. Initially, she worked in high school settings in California, but a thirst for adventure soon took her to Nanwalek and eventually to Homer where she interpreted at the elementary level for several years.

Providing interpretation at the local choir performance of the oratorio “We are Pheonix” by Timothy Takach marked a special and memorable moment in Carpenter’s career. This performance also garnered public attention as the Alaska representative within a national premiere of the work. “We Are Phoenix” was presented by Kenai Peninsula Community Chorus and Homer High School Concert Choir under director Kyle Schneider at the Mariner Theater in April 2025.

American Sign Language began to take form in 1817 after Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet studied Deaf education in Europe and, with the help of French Sign Language teacher Laurent Clerc, started the American School for the Deaf in Hartford, Connecticut, Michelle Jay writes in “The History of American Sign Language.” Deaf students from across America contributed to the standardized ASL we know today.

As with other languages, the best way to learn is to practice with someone whose primary language is ASL. In the past there have been local sign language classes. For some time a small group also met at Alice’s Champagne Palace once per week to learn with a Deaf person, and Carpenter hopes this opportunity will return in the future.

September is Deaf Awareness Month and a great time to search for online and in-person events celebrating Deaf culture, history and American Sign Language.

Carpenter offers these tips for becoming a good ASL interpreter:

• Be fluent in both languages understand ASL and English well.
• Interpret the meaning, not just individual words.
• Be accurate and neutral — don’t add your own opinions or leave out information.
• Respect Deaf culture and the Deaf person’s preferences.
• Keep information confidential.
• Use appropriate facial expressions and body language when interpreting ASL.
• Know your limitations and ask for clarification when necessary.
• Continue practicing and learning to improve your skills.