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”Upprepning är
kunskapens nyckel”

Quick Vocal School


Extracted from the book: Ultimate Vocal Voyage, by Daniel Zangger Borch

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Lesson Three: Consonant Articulation
[2007-04-27]

In addition to their lyrical function consonants can also be a rhythmic ingredient. Explosive consonants create a percussive element that can be used to great effect and really make things swing. In my opinion the roll of consonants in musical interpretation is underrated. This may be due to the fact that traditional teachers are a little scared of consonants because the way they constrict a note can lead to tension or voice wear

Even when the consonant is formed with the tongue and teeth there is a tendency to close the vocal folds at the same time. It is important that singers are made aware of this so they can avoid falling into the habit and wearing out their voices.

A singer should develop their ability to move freely between different articulators. When a consonant is formed air flow is stopped or constricted. It is therefore important not to dwell too long on the consonant as this can create tension in the parts that are forming it.

The pitch of a vowel is determined during the formation of the preceding consonant. A consonant lowers the pitch a little and much of the energy disappears into the throat instead of out the mouth. This is why consonants should be formed lightly and explosively.

It is important to remain relaxed during the following exercises. You may notice that you begin to tense your jaw muscles after a while.

Exercise – Fat lip [b],[p],[m]

A/ This is where we train our labial consonants i.e. those formed with our lips. Make sure you relax your lips after every consonant.



Artikulation
Lesson Three for the female voice. (mp3).
Lesson Three for the male voice. (mp3).

Extracted from the book: Ultimate Vocal Voyage, by Daniel Zangger Borch