Laura B DYV 17

Laura B
Chapter Summary: Singing requires thinking, and the brain controls our thinking and gives commands to the muscles. The brain is very intricate and made up of billions of cells called neurons. Neurons are the basis of the nervous system,  which carries messages to the brain from the body and vice versa. Within the nervous system, some actions are voluntary, which are processed through the thinking part of the brain. Other actions are involuntary, through which functions happen of which we are not directly aware. Because of the way that messages are sent through nerve connections, the more the message is sent the more routine the task becomes. As singers, we should work towards making our technique routine in our bodies. Through our thoughts, we can promote the conscious actions of speech and singing. As we concentrate on correct technique, we can train our throats to be relaxed, free, and open.
Key Concept: "Pay attention to what your body is doing when your voice is functioning the way you want it to. Much benefit is gained by observing how your body operates and remembering what your sensations were."
Key Terms: cortex, autonomic nervous system, spinal cord, medulla oblongata, hypothalamus, neuron, axons & dendrites, afferent & efferent nerve fibers, reflex arc/conditioned reflex, point of saturation, synapse, pre-phonatory inspiration, kinesthetic senses, biofeedback, endocrine system, hormones, negative feedback, Vagus/laryngeal nerve (superior branch & inferior portion), recurrent laryngeal nerve, glossopharyngeal nerve, facial nerve, masseter, trapezius, sternocleidomastoid, hypoglossus, sympathetic nervous system, empathetic nervous system, slow-twitch & fast-twitch motor units
Making Connections: Again, the human body is incredible! I have been taking a neuroscience class this semester, so it was great to connect what I have been learning with singing. I need to trust in my body and that it knows what its doing. I also need to concentrate more on having a free and open throat instead of just trying to hit the notes. If I concentrate on the right things, my body will do the rest.