Sarah Brenay - SS - Ch. 4

Summary: This chapter goes through the steps of Smith's first invention, Simple Speaking Simply. This invention is designed to help singers find their vernacular speech, without super and subPglottal pressure. Phase 1 is to say ni-ne-na-no-nu in your authentic speech, without intonation and without humming the n. Smith suggests that aim for a blatty, unattractive sound if the are having trouble ridding their voices of inflection. Phase 2 is to do the same exercise, but projecting as though speaking to someone in the next room. Phase 3 is to connect the syllables, creating an uninterrupted line. Projection is essential in this step, to create a forward motion. This will seam like monotone. Phase 4 is to apply specific pitches to the ni-ne-na-no-nu exercise. Observe the pitch at which the singer speaks Phase 3. Use that pitch as a starting place for Phase 4, and then continue on to random pitches ranging from a 3rd below their speaking pitch up to about C5 for women and C4 for men (may be lower depending on voice type). Phase 5 is to refine the vowels, getting rid of dipthongs and disentangle the articulators from the voice. Smith describes the process to finding refined vowels. He also goes into the issues of tongue tension.
Key Concepts: Even though free singing is less entangled than speech, finding vernacular speech is the first step to disentangling the voice. The process of finding the vernacular speech is difficult, but worth it. However, our natural vowels are not formed in a way conducive to proper vocal production. We need to refine our vowels so that the airways are not constricted. This process is slow and systematic, but essential.
Key Concepts:
Subglottal and Superglottal Pressure - constriction below and above the larynx that makes our singing tense and unhealthy.
IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet
 Making Connections: The tongue is my worst and most powerful nemesis. I cannot destroy it, so it must become my ally! I'm excited to try these exercises, and I'm really glad Smith takes this in very small steps. Funny story! When I started reading this chapter in the Cafe, that song by Sara Barielles came on "Say what you wanna say, just let the words fall out, honestly I wanna see you be brave!" and, oh the irony, I just had to tell you.