The EM Poll

The Instrument Inside

Mar 13, 2008 5:11 PM, By Joanna Cazden

           

MAXIMIZE YOUR SINGING VOICE WITH PROPER CARE AND TECHNIQUE

FIG. 2: Two examples of vocal nodules, which are caused by overuse or misuse of the voice.

Courtesy Warren Line, M.D.

Speed Bumps

The most common health problem for vocalists is the development of vocal nodules or nodes, small calluses that form on the edge of one or both vocal folds in response to forceful overuse of the voice (see Fig. 2). Correct diagnosis requires an exam by a laryngologist (ear, nose, and throat doctor), but typical vocal symptoms include a rough, breathy, or grainy sound while talking as well as while singing and a loss of your range's high end.

If nodules are caught early, treatment is usually successful, and with proper retraining of the voice, they need not recur. At the early stage, treatment usually involves vocal rest, careful commitment to the health guidelines discussed earlier, and adjustments in vocal technique, usually prescribed by a licensed speech pathologist.

The longer nodules are ignored, the larger they become, invading and scarring more of the vocal folds. At this stage they may require surgery, and the voice may still be permanently damaged. So if your sound is deteriorating, get it checked out right away.

You should definitely seek medical help for any loss of voice, loss of range, throat pain, or sensations of dryness or fatigue that last two weeks or more. Don't ignore chronic respiratory allergies and heartburn or acid reflux, both of which can inflame the vocal folds. Getting access to good health care is a problem for many musicians, but taking care of your instrument is important. Laryngologists who see a lot of singers are usually sensitive to financial woes. Low-cost public clinics are another option.

Taking Flight

Every singer dreams of the moment when at last a big, pure, passionate sound soars effortlessly out of the throat, captivating the audience as no other instrument can. As with most other musical magic, the key ingredients are often mundane measures such as technique, training, and practice time. For vocalists, staying healthy, self-aware, and self-protective are additional components of success. Follow these guidelines and you'll be as true an artist as any otasp>musician.

Onstage Hotlinks

www.bgsm.edu/voice/singers_notes.html
“A Singer's Notes: Preventing Vocal Nodules,” Wake Forest Center for Voice Disorders.

www.voice-center.com/maintain_voice.html
“Maintaining a Healthy Voice,” Eastern Virginia Medical School.

www.voiceofyourlife.com
Joanna Cazden's site for voice information.