Kate's Voice

The cornerstones of a great voice are healthy vocal folds, the ability to use them well, and supportive breathing.  In the past we have discussed breathing, and vocal health.  Now let’s focus on using your voice correctly.  The cornerstone of correct vocal production is “mask resonance.”

Even in an untrained voice, there is a simple way to find mask resonance.

Say “MMMMMMMMMMM.”  Can you feel that buzzy sensation in the front of your face?

Put your fingers on your face, next to your nose and across your cheekbones.

Now, say it again, “MMMMMMMMMMMM.”  You can probably feel a vibration in your fingers as well as your face.

Now, say. “AAAWWWW.”  You may not feel much vibration in your face, but you might feel in in your throat.  The “aw” sound resonates more in your throat and less in your nasal pharynx.

The resonance in your nasal pharynx is “mask resonance.”  Practice alternating between the words “memory” and “fought” so you can start to notice mask resonance  when it is present in your sound and can cultivate it in your singing and in your speech.  And visit my blog again to learn more about it!

Mask resonance is the core of a healthy voice.  It’s the sound of the vocal folds vibrating nicely and evenly, and the resonance moving around in your head where it can create a vibrant sound.  Here’s how to find it:

Say “Mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm.”  Can you feel that buzzy sensation in the front of your face?

Put your fingers on your face, next to your nose and across your cheekbones.  Now say it again. “Mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm.”  You can probably feel a vibration in your fingers as well as your face.

Now say, “Aaaawwwww.”  You may not feel much vibration in your face, but you might feel it in your throat.  The “aw” sound resonates more in your throat and less in your nasal pharynx, which is where we produce mask resonance.

Now alternate two words until you feel the difference.  Say “fought,” “memory,” “fought,” “memory.”

Cool, huh? Now pay attention to this feeling today as you are talking.  You can write down your observations if you like.  In fact, I hope you do!