Voice Lessons

bjorn · Joined: 26 Mar 2007 Posts: 2 Location: Switzerland

Hi!

Very nice site, with lots of useful information. And looks like I'm the first to post! Smile

I was wondering if you could help me with a question? I've gotten myself involved in a bit of an argument regarding technique, and I'm trying to find out some more information. I know that some singers have been taught to tilt their head slightly backwards when singing to "open up the throat" (indeed some singing teachers also teach this technique). But I was taught by my singing teacher (and heard other people mention this too) that this is not a good thing, and can even be harmful since it prevents the larynx from moving freely. This also matches my own experiences; if I tilt my head backwards I find it more difficult to reach high notes, and it's quite tiring as well. I've searched the web to find more info about this to verify or discount this, but it's hard to find any specific data. I was thinking maybe you know, or have an idea where I can look further?

One of the people involved in the discussion (proponent of the tilt thing) mentioned the term "laryngeal tilt" and that the throat "must assume different positions to achieve optimal performance". My own experience tells me different, I find it easier to reach my whole range when looking straight ahead, but I'm certainly no expert and it would be good to have some solid data to base my argumentation on.

Anyway, any input/information you have on the subject would be most helpful.

Best regards,
Björn Rudolfsson

mrclmind · Site Admin Joined: 11 Jan 2007 Posts: 7

Hi Bjorn!

The larynx does tilt as you ascend in pitch, but this tilt should not try to be controlled in any way by the singer.

I don't agree with the technique of tilting one's head back to try and produce an open throat. The head is best left level and relaxed. The one thing about tilting the head back that I would agree with, is that if you tilt your head all the way back as if you are looking at the ceiling you will notice that your jaw relaxes back in a natural position. If you can maintain this natural jaw position when you return your head back to it's neutral position it helps to remind you what a neutral jaw position feels like. This is especially helpful for singers who tend to push their jaws forward when they sing. But it is NOT recommended that you sing with your head tilted back.

Hope that helps!

Guy

bjorn · Joined: 26 Mar 2007 Posts: 2 Location: Switzerland

Hi Guy,

Yes, that is sort of what I was thinking as well. I think the person in question simply mixed up larynx tilt with head tilt.

Thanks for your help!
Bjorn