Vocal Pedagogy Blog

 

 Summary The creation of sound is a very complex scientific process, but as singers it is important to have a basic grasp on sound physics to understand how our voices execute the sounds we hear. This comes in conjunction with many anatomical features of the vocal folds as well as the application of breath options from our previous week.  What even is sound? ------> sound is the disturbance  of air (NOT air "traveling") ----------->the air is disturbed by sound waves  that oscillate air molecules from their source to our ears -there are lots of very cool physics equations that can calculate and explain the speed, size, frequency, and loudness of sound waves/sound, but I will provide just the bare bones understanding here as to not overwhelm the learning singer! I personally love physics, and recommend checking out Khan Academy's website and YouTube page for more in-depth information.  ---a sound wave's shape is broken into units called a period (one "chunk...

Summary Breathing is fundamental to life, and crucial to singing technique. The foundation of every singer's success is built on his or her concept of breath and power, and that is why it is so important to correct misconceptions to prevent injury or re-training of the body. The vocal folds control the breath, not all breathing must be low and full, and you do not always need a full tank of air to create a big sound; in fact, that can be detrimental.  Breathing Basics -How do we breathe?  ------> the body wants to equalize pressure and volume, and we allow air to enter past the vocal folds to the lungs to help achieve equilibrium. We do not suck in air, and the lungs are not air-sac balloons. The lungs rely on the movement of muscles and bones around them to inflate and release, and this is the movement we feel when we are kinesthetically aware of our breathing.  -Who moves? Where? What? ------> the ribs  (via intercostal muscles) move up and outward on inhalat...

 Basic Summary- The body is the center of everything we do, and SINGING IS MOVEMENT! Being anatomically educated and physically aware is crucial for musicians, and singers especially benefit from this in their breathing, tone quality, and health. Body Mapping- - what is a body map? ------> a body map is one's personal concept of his or her anatomy -Body mapping is an ongoing learning process singers need to engage in. This involves learning where different bones, muscle groups, or organs live in the body, changing your body map and self concept as you grow, and correcting common misconceptions you may have. Especially in the classroom or lesson space, instructors and students alike must openly admit these misconceptions in order to prevent or redirect incorrect movement, make others aware of their own body mapping issues, and to overall create an environment that invites error and growth!  How can someone learn about their body map? -study anatomy that is medical in source ...