In order to produce sound, abductor muscles (the "vocal cord closers") are activated, providing resistance to exhaled air from the lungs. Air then bursts through the closed vocal cords. As the air rushes through the vocal cords, the pressure between the cords drops, sucking them back together. This is known as the "Bernoulli Effect." This vibration, or the action of the vocal cords being blown apart and then "sucked" back together, is repeated hundreds or even thousands of times per second, producing what we hear as voice. This sound, created at the level of the vocal cords, is then shaped by muscular changes in the pharynx (throat) and oral cavity (including the lips, tongue, palate, and jaw) to create speech.
View this process as Fox news takes a look at Steven Tylers vocal cords: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B3hlooOjAxE
Although unfortunately and frequently ignored, vocal cool-downs may also be used to prevent damage to the vocal cords. During speaking and singing, blood flow to the larynx is increased. Stopping immediately after prolonged speaking or singing may contribute to a pooling of blood in the larynx, weighing the vocal cords down. Damage may result as one attempts to speak on these potentially swollen folds. An analogy can be drawn to other physical exercise. After running for prolonged periods of time, an athlete is encouraged to walk for several minutes to maintain blood flow and prevent cramping. The same propensity for "cramping" may apply to laryngeal activity. The simple practice of gentle, relaxed humming can serve as an excellent form of cooling-down.
Hands at your side and feet shoulder width apart . Hold chin at a comfortable level. No tension in the neck. Use lower abdomen breathing using diaphragm. Your chest should not move when you inhale a deep breath. Place your hand on your stomach and feel it push out as you fill up with air. Practice your even humming warm up. Inhale using your diagram and HUMMMMMM the exhale. Keep your note steady and constant & concentrate on the placement. Calmly explore your range starting with middle C.
Good luck & take care of your cords!
Jacqueline Jax
Director of Artist Development www.AmericanVocalAcademy.com
ASk Jacqueline Jax: Need help? Ask Jacqueline a question by commenting on her post or sending her a private message.
If you feel that you could use a more customized set of exercises for warm-up, vocalizing, fixing problem areas or cool-downs, get in touch with the American Vocal Academy. We have online lessons customized to your own needs just by taking our simple video test.
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