Vocal Health

Q: Do lozenges, sprays, etc. help singers?

A: Generally NO. Nothing you eat or drink ever touches the vocal folds as the larynx shuts when you swallow. The only way to introduce anything to the folds is by inhaling. Steam is very beneficial to tired, husky voices. And it's free! Boil a kettle, grab a bowl and a towel. Let the water cool a little before you start steaming. Try this for 5-15 minutes once or twice per day. Also, please drink plenty of water. 1-2L per day depending on your stature and lifestyle should be plenty.

Q: Is singing with a high larynx damaging to the vocal folds?

A: There is no research to suggest that a high laryngeal position puts any strain on the vocal folds. However, the larynx rising may invite constriction of the the false vocal folds. This can be easily over-ridden with false vocal fold control exercises. The larynx will need to be in a higher positions for bright, twangy or belt-like sounds to help create a smaller space in the vocal tract for amplification.

Q: What should I do if my voice sounds strange or hoarse for no reason?

A: If these symptoms last more than two weeks you should get your GP to refer you to a laryngologist. If you are ever unsure about your vocal health you should seek advice from a voice consultant or see your GP for a specialist referral.

Q: Can I scream, growl and use vocal distortion safely?

A: This is a controversial topic in the world of voice. There is some research going on at the moment into how these "distorted" sounds are produced. It would seem that there are certainly "safer" ways of producing them, but whether or not they can be sustained for long periods of time needs further investigation.

Q: Should I be spending time on breathing exercises?

A: The only valve to regulate breath in voice-use is the vocal folds. Any breathing exercises that do not take into account what is happening in the larynx are only looking at half of the equation.

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