Determining pitch . . . all tuned up!

Determining Pitch . . . All Tuned Up!

In singing, pitch isn't just a mental command—it is a physical feat of coordination. The primary players in determining pitch are the arytenoid muscle system, the crico-thyroid muscle system, and the vocal cords themselves. When these muscles work in harmony, your voice stays perfectly in tune.

The Closer and the Stretcher

The arytenoid muscle system, often called the “closer” muscle, is the dominant force at the lowest part of your range. It keeps the vocal cords thicker and "fatter," which is necessary to create those deep, low frequencies.

As you ascend the scale, the crico-thyroid muscle system, or “stretcher” muscle, takes over. It determines pitch by stretching and thinning the vocal cords. As the cords become thinner in length, width, and depth, the vibration produces higher pitches. This same system is responsible for letting you safely back down the scale as well.

The "Zipper" Effect

The inter-arytenoids also play a vital role in this process. They press the cords together, stopping cordal vibration little by little. You can think of this action like a zipper being zipped along the glottal slit, effectively shortening the vibrating portion of the cords to accommodate rising pitch.

Muscles Adjusting Muscles

Ultimately, the vocal cords determine pitch by having their vibrating size altered as you move throughout your range. It is a fascinating system where muscles are adjusted by other muscles. Hoorah for such intricate coordination! When all these components "play nice," your instrument remains balanced, resonant, and—most importantly—all tuned up!