Component Breakdown
Use the following components as a guide to create/modify an exercise when targeting flexibility. To practice, select the appropriate pattern in the Pattern Vault.
Formant: Closed
The more closed the formant is (ie: Mm, Oo, Lip Trill), the more back pressure is generated, which allows the folds to stretch easily.
Feature: Consonants (other than H)
Any consonant (ie: N, B, D, G) that will disrupt airflow, causing additional back pressure, will benefit the dimension of flexibility.
Pattern: Large Span of Notes
The greater the span is between the pitches of the pattern, the more the exercise requires the folds to stretch.
Volume: Quiet
A quiet volume is best to minimize the amount of subglottic pressure, allowing the folds to respond easily.
Tempo: Fast
The faster the tempo is, the more the vocal folds will be required to stay loose and responsive.
Variable: Head Circles / Stretch
Adding head circles or body stretches to an exercise are great ways for reducing tension of the exterior muscles, as well as keeping the internal muscles of the larynx relaxed.
