Hi, I'm new to the group. I really like this website because its so interactive. I'm currently a U.S.-er and was originally born in the Philippines. My mother is from Philippines and my father from the U.S. I've been mostly raised here in the States with the stadard AE accent that my father has taught me, but I also think that the BE standadrd accent (even the Welsch BE) is more convincing, fluid, and musical to my ears (IMHO). I've read a discussion forum (forgot exactly which thread or section), but it said something that you should stick with the accent that you were raised with and that accent defines your character.
Well, I totally disagree. I think that with lots of practice and learning and "doing your research", one can easily get by with a new or different accent. The beginning may be rocky at first, but after much practice, I think one could literally become a "lingual chameleon"--always changing colours to best suit the crowd or situation. Then again it all basically boils down to whatever you're comfortable with. However, I don't think it will hurt to try something new or challenging. What do you guys think?