[2007-04-27]
Jaw movement is not only vitally important for all types of singing, it is also central to a wide range of activities including chewing, grinding your teeth and the formation of formants, vowels and consonants.
The movements of the jaw often follow those of the tongue with the exception of certain vowels such as when moving form “EE” to “OO”. The jaw muscles contract every time you close your mouth, so it is important not only to avoid clenching your jaws but also to allow gravity to help you to open your mouth. Some teachers recommend keeping your jaw still and letting your tongue do most of the work forming consonants, however I believe that the jaw is a natural part of sound formation and that tension in the jaw muscles can be avoided by keeping the jaws moving. It also seems to help rhythmic articulation.
Stress and anxiety often cause us to unconsciously clench our jaws, which leads to tense jaw muscles. This can also result in tension in the larynx and subsequent vocal wear. Pressing your tongue against the hard palate or clenching your jaws can often occur when performing daily activities such as watching TV or walking. This also causes your mouth and throat to assume their swallowing positions which creates extra tension which can lead to problems with your mucosa. Jaw clenching can also create tension in your neck and temples resulting in headaches. Relaxing your jaws should be practiced when performing. Voice massage can relieve built-up tension however the problem will return if your technique doesn’t improve. Keeping this warning in mind, here is a suggestion for avoiding unnecessary tension.
The basic position for a relaxed jaw is as follows: tip of your tongue behind your lower front teeth, lips sealed, jaws slightly open. If you place your fingers at the back of your jaw and open your mouth you will be able to observe the jaw’s natural movement pattern. You will feel the jawbone move down and then backwards.
The following exercise should be performed while relaxed and with a feeling of mobility in the jaw.
Exercise – The classic “vee-vee”
The jaws
Lesson Two for the female voice. (mp3).
Lesson Two for the male voice. (mp3).
It is a good idea to keep your fingers on the back of your jaw when performing all of these exercises. This will help you get a sense of the mobility that is required to remain relaxed.
Extracted from the book: Ultimate Vocal Voyage, by Daniel Zangger Borch
|
