Size and Weight

In the world of vocal science, the size and weight of the vocal cords—and the resultant sound—are vital for healthy singing. To sing in accord with the laws of nature, we must understand that the physical state of our instrument must change as our melodies move.

The Physics of Pitch

For each and every pitch we sing, there is a specific length, width, and depth of the vocal cords vibrating to produce that sound. This creates a distinct "feel" of weight that should become naturally heavier or lighter depending on where we are in our vocal range.

The Trap of Being "Too Heavy"

A common mistake occurs when a singer tries to carry the weight of a lower note into a higher pitch. For example, if you attempt to sing a Middle C using the vocal cord adjustment of the A below it, your cords are physically too large for the task. The sound will feel heavy, sluggish, and labored.

The vocal cords cannot maintain healthy vibration when the incorrect amount of mass is engaged. If you are too heavy, you might try to "boost" the pitch by adding volume or pushing air. This might work temporarily, but eventually, the cords will strain, dilate, or separate, leading to a voice that feels "locked out" and unable to move.

Finding the Balanced Scale

When the vocal muscles are balanced, your voice follows a natural progression:

• As you ascend: The vibrating portion of the cords becomes smaller and lighter.
• As you descend: The cords become progressively larger and heavier.

Conclusion: Matching the Source to the Sound

All is well when the muscular effort corresponds to the actual size of the vibrating vocal cords. By letting go of the need to "push" and instead allowing your cords to thin and lighten as you go up, you protect your instrument and unlock your true range. Trust the laws of nature—smaller is better for those high notes!