The Vibrator: The larynx (or voice box) sits on top of the windpipe. It contains
two vocal folds (also known as vocal cords) that open during breathing and
close during swallowing and voice production. When we produce voice, the
airstream passes between the two vocal folds that have come together. These
folds are soft and are set into vibration by the passing airstream. They
vibrate very fast – from 100 to 1000 times per second, depending on the pitch
of the sound we make. Pitch is determined by the length and tension of the
vocal folds, which are controlled by muscles in the larynx.
The Resonator: By themselves, the vocal folds produce a noise that sounds like
simple buzzing, much like the mouthpiece on a trumpet. All of the structure
above the folds, including the throat, nose, and mouth, are part of the
resonator system. We can compare these structures to those of a horn or trumpet.
The buzzing sound created by vocal fold vibration is changed by the shape of
the resonator tract to produce our unique human sound.
When our voices are healthy, the three
main parts work in harmony to provide effortless voice during speech and
singing.
The
information aims to provide educational purpose only. Anyone reading it should
consult ENT Specialists before
considering treatment and should not rely on the information above.
We rely on our voices every day to
interact with others, and a healthy voice is critical for clear communication.
But just as we walk without thinking about it, we usually speak without
thinking how our body makes it happen. However, knowing how we make sound is
useful to maintaining the health and effectiveness of our voices. So this year
on World Voice Day, April 16, take a minute to learn how your voice works. The
following overview describes the body parts that work together to produce the
sounds we make when we speak and sing.
The main parts of voice production:
• The Power Source: Your Lungs
• The Vibrator: Your Voice Box
• The Resonator: Your Throat, Nose,
Mouth, and Sinuses
The Power Source: The power for your voice comes from air that you exhale. When we
inhale, the diaphragm lowers and the rib cage expands, drawing air into the
lungs. As we exhale, the process reverses and air exits the lungs, creating an
airstream in the trachea. This airstream provides the energy for the vocal
folds in the voice box to produce sound. The stronger the airstream, the
stronger the voice. Give your voice good breath support to create a steady
strong airstream that helps you make clear sounds.
