Sarah Brenay - SS - Ch. 5

Chapter Summary: The second invention teaches us to sing with free flowing air. This helps us find the oscuro side of the chiaroscuro balance. (Invention one is for the chiaro side.) Smith describes the mechanics of falsetto. The vocal cords are not fully adducted, but are partially engaged as we release air. To begin Phase 1 we vocalize a downward sigh, allowing it to start in the falsetto range, and then descend. We begin the sigh on an [o] vowel, and switch to [a] if the vibration comes back into the voice and we can't continue down in falsetto. Phase 2 is a siren, starting low in the range on [a], then going up on an [o], and then returning back down to [a]. There should be a sensation of back space opening and air coming out the top of the head if this is done correctly. The [o] is created by wrapping the lips around, but should feel as free and loose as the [a] in the lower range. Smith notes that it doesn't matter how high the singer gets in this exercise, so long as the voice is free, with a sensation of breathiness and no resistance. Phase three of this invention involves a sigh up from [a] to [o] just like in Phase 2, but then a five note descending scale from the [o] at the top of the siren.
Key Concepts: Free airflow and properly adducted vocal cords is the key to the oscuro side of singing. This invention requires the vocal cords to find a sensation of flowing air, flutiness, and freedom. The objective is not push ourselves higher or lower than we are comfortable, but to find our oscuro side. As we become proficient at this exercise, the sound becomes more full. This will only work if done correctly.
Making Connections: So excited to try these. This came at a perfect time fore me, because I've been struggling very hard to find my higher, falsetto voice in the hopes that I will find a better balance in my voice. I have tried many exercises but could not find a convincingly light, falsetto tone. In fact, I didn't know women had falsetto. Good to know! Anyway, I think this invention will help me a lot with this. I'm almost certainly and over-adductor.