Emily C.: DYV, Ch. 20

Discover Your Voice: Chapter 20

Emily Cottam

Chapter Summary: Functional vocal disorders can be from hyperfunction and hypofunction. Many voice problems come from not singing, but from speech. Hyperfunctional conditions: singing too loudly, overusing the voice, too much breath effort, straining for high notes, squeezing for low notes, shoulder tension, rigid posture, high breathing, too low breathing, neck tension, articulation muscle tension, facial muscles distortion, carrying chest voice too high, overuse of voice in speech, bad speech habits, imitation of “poor voice models,” pressing young voices, singing difficult music before technically ready. Hypofunctional conditions (these are less frequent than hyperfunction): not enough breath to finish normal phrases, tone lacks carrying power, audible breathy quality, notes die in middle of the range, really breathy high notes and low notes, loss of air in consonants, and psychological factors (emotional distress/melancholy leading to breathy quality in the voice). When treating the voice from disorders, it’s important to fix the causes, not just the symptoms, or else they will return. Treatment should be unique to the individual and should be followed with the utmost care if the individual wishes to recover faster. When considering surgery for a vocal fold disorder, it’s important to be aware of the potential consequences and the necessary voice therapy following the surgery. Try to keep yourself in a humidified environment and stay hydrated. Women’s menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause can have an affect on vocal quality, so one should be aware of how their body responds in these situations so as not to develop compensatory habits. Don’t smoke or drink. It’s dumb for a singer. Be aware of the effects of prescription drugs on the voice. Know what you’re allergic to and how you can avoid/cope with them. 

Key Concepts: Functional vocal disorders should be addressed with the utmost care to prevent further damage and encourage early healing. The source of the problem should always be addressed, not just the symptoms. Sometimes, vocal problems can be prevented simply by adjusting our environment. 

Key Terms: functional disorders, hypo/hyperfunction, (chronic) laryngitis, edema, polyps, nodules, dysphonia plicae ventricularis, contact ulcers/granuloma, myasthenia larynis, cord paralysis, ruptured cords, nasal resonance vs nasality, 

Making Connections: I tend to lean towards being hyperfunctional in my singing, and after studying with Brianna, I’ve really learned a lot. I’m really grateful for the chance to study with her because she has had experience with many of the problems I used to (and still) deal with sometimes, so she knows exactly how to identify and help me fix the problems.