Mariah SS 4

Mariah SS 4

Chapter Summary: Simply speaking simply requires the singer to speak freely without entanglement with extrinsic muscles. To get to this point, a singer needs to start in the vernacular and work to project, then project with line and continue on to refine their vowels. Smith explains that projection does not always mean louder but instead "real projection is natural, relaxed conversational speech, but with more energy and focus." Individuals should always sing with line whether or not they are singing legato to create continuity. To sing correctly, the jaw should remain in the "aw" position for all vowels. Another important thing is to relax the base of the tongue while singing to allow simply speaking simply.

Key Concept: Simply speaking simply involves a process which starts with regular speaking  that continues on to speaking with projection, line, and refined vowels while keeping the base of the tongue relaxed. 

Key Terms: vernacular speaking, projection, line, intrinsic muscles, extrinsic muscles, dipthong

Making Connections: I need to pay more attention to relaxing the base of my tongue. I have never even heard about this concept before reading this chapter. I loved the idea to keep the jaw in the "ah" position for every vowel. This helps me understand how to keep my jaw more relaxed and dropped instead of forced down.