Vocal Health Vocal Health The Human Voice Vocal

Vocal Health

Vocal Health The Human Voice Vocal Technique Healthy Singing Vocal Injury and Fatigue Warning Signs

The Human Voice ü Vocal Folds ü Larynx ü Resonators ü Articulators

The Human Voice ü The Voice is a Wind Instrument. ü In most woodwind instruments, the air passes over a reed causing the reed to vibrate thus causing the sound. ü With the voice, the air passes through the vocal folds causing them to vibrate making a sound.

The Human Voice ü The vocal folds are located inside the larynx. ü They are attached to the inside of what is commonly called the Adam’s Apple. ü They are about the diameter of a small paper clip.

The Human Voice ü High pitches: The vocal folds become longer, thinner, and more tense. ü Low Pitches: The vocal folds become shorter, thicker, and less tense. ü This is an involuntary change. ü When at rest, the vocal cords are apart allowing air to freely pass without making sound.

The Human Voice -Resonators: ü Mouth ü Sinuses ü Larynx ü Oral and Nasal Passages No two people have the same size resonators so no two voices sound alike.

The Human Voice -Articulators: ü Lips ü Teeth ü Tongue ü Palate

Technique ü Posture ü Breath support ü Tension ü Healthy Tone

Healthy Singing ü Use good tone ü Use proper posture. ü Use proper breath support. ü Sing within your range. ü Avoid jaw or neck tension. ü Avoid singing with manufactured vibrato.

Healthy Singing: Tips for Healthy Voices ü Drink seven to ten 8 -ounce glasses of WATER per day. (No Caffeine or Alcohol) ü Always warm up before you sing. ü Balance voice use time with vocal rest time. ü Do not sing with a sore throat.

Healthy Voices ü Do NOT Smoke! ü Do NOT Drink Alcohol. ü Do NOT use drugs.

Vocal Injury and Fatigue ü Screaming, over-singing, singing on a sore throat, cold weather, excessive talking, talking over road noise can all cause vocal fatigue & injury. ü Avoid coating the throat with sugar or dairy before singing.

Vocal Injury and Fatigue When you are sick: ü Get lots of rest. ü Eat healthy. ü Drink lots of fluids (no caffeine) ü Do not sing with a sore throat. ü Vocal rest (including talking) The voice heals slowly.

Signs of Vocal Abuse ü Pain ü “Frog in the throat. ” ü Loss of voice ü Inability to relax the throat. ü Pitch problems - voice becomes uncontrollable.

Disclaimer: This presentation is intended to make you more knowledgeable about the voice and how to take care of your instrument. ü Do not over react. ü Do not become a hypochondriac. ü Be sensible and smart. ü Do not become a diva and/or wear a scarf indoors to “keep your voice warm. ”