Part 2. Vocal Constriction

Very often, students cannot sing a song beautifully due to the presence of vocal constrictions. In this case, it is important for the teacher to understand which part of the vocal apparatus the problem is in, since the exercises will differ depending on the location of the problem.

Let's look at the most common vocal constrictions and their symptoms:

1️⃣ Constriction of the external muscles of the larynx: one of the most common constrictions, during which the muscles responsible for raising the larynx are overstrained. The sound becomes flat, strained, narrow, and unattractive, and the student experiences unpleasant sensations in the throat area.

2️⃣ Constriction of the false vocal folds: the vestibular folds can spasm as a reaction to an excess of air during incorrect singing breathing and cause a feeling of tickling, unpleasant itching in the throat, and a desire to cough.

3️⃣ Constriction of the root of the tongue: due to an incorrect position of the root and back of the tongue, the student may experience overstrain, which greatly complicates the vocalization process, especially when singing high notes. Such students may feel a constriction in the pharynx area and complain of difficulties with the upper part of the range.

4️⃣ Constriction of the lower jaw: due to hypertonicity of the masticatory muscles, students often encounter a situation where they cannot freely and effectively work the lower jaw while singing. As a result, the sound becomes constricted and unattractive, and the vowels are too neutralized.

It is important to understand that all parts of the vocal apparatus are interconnected, and when working with each specific constriction, it is necessary to control compensation — so that the constriction does not transfer to other related muscles. I will tell you more about which exercises are most effective for getting rid of various types of constrictions this Saturday on a free live broadcast.