Overview
This lecture reviews larynx position in singing, the problems associated with incorrect positioning, and targeted exercises to correct and manage larynx height issues for better vocal quality.
Larynx Position Review
- The larynx can be too high, too low, or neutral during singing.
- High larynx results in a yelly, shouty sound, pitch issues, throat tension, and voice breaks.
- Low larynx causes weak vocal fold closure, breathy or hollow tone, and loss of vocal projection.
- Neutral-high and neutral-low exist; each can be beneficial in moderation for different vocal qualities.
- Beginners often "track" pitch by raising or lowering the larynx excessively as they sing.
Aims of Larynx Exercises
- Main goal: help singers learn to control larynx height for balanced, healthy singing.
- Encourage singers to notice how different positions feel and sound.
- Collect singer feedback for comfort and stylistic preferences.
- Prevent vocal fatigue, discomfort, or injury from poor larynx management.
Assessing and Experiencing Larynx Height
- Use fingers on the throat to feel larynx movement during swallowing, yawning, and speaking.
- Encourage singers to connect sounds (e.g., "cat" for high, "du" for low, "ah" for neutral) with larynx positions.
- Have singers observe larynx movement during scales to build awareness.
Exercises to Correct Larynx Position
- Exaggerate certain vowel sounds to experience high or low larynx positions.
- Practice maintaining a neutral larynx through scales, first with fingers, then without.
- Use "yawn" sensation or imitate "Dopey" characters to discourage high larynx.
- Use physical gestures (e.g., lowering arm) as cues for controlling larynx height.
- For larynx dropping too low, employ speech-like, percussive exercises (e.g., saying "but" or counting numbers).
- Focus on using consonants that support vocal fold closure like B, M, D.
Applying Control to Song
- Transition control from exercises to actual singing through short song sections.
- Use same hand-on-throat and sound strategies in context of a melody.
- Gradually shift from exaggerated practice to normal singing style as coordination improves.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Larynx — the voice box, a structure in the throat vital for sound production and pitch control.
- Vocal fold adduction — bringing the vocal folds together to create sound.
- Neutral larynx position — a balanced state where the larynx is neither raised nor lowered excessively.
- Yawn position — sensation or movement where the larynx drops, often used to correct a high larynx.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Practice larynx awareness exercises daily using hand placement and vocal sounds.
- Apply corrective exercises to singing scales and selected song phrases.
- Monitor for vocal fatigue and adjust exercises as needed.
- Watch teaching clinic videos to observe practical examples of larynx exercises.