Where do Vowels Come From?

Understanding how vowels are formed and shaped is a fundamental skill for any singer. While it seems obvious to say that vowels are formed in the mouth, the reality of vocal science is a bit more complex—and a lot more interesting. To sing with clarity, we have to look past our lips and teeth.

The Mental Concept

The process of shaping a vowel starts in the mind. Before a sound is even made, your brain must have a clear concept of the vowel you want to produce. Once that mental image is set, your brain sends a signal to your vocal cords.

The Vocal Cords: The First Shape

Contrary to what many believe, the vocal cords don't just determine pitch; they are the first stage of vowel formation. The cords adjust their configuration specifically for the intended vowel. There is a physically different shape at the cord level for an [i] (as in "see") than there is for an [oh] (as in "go").

The "True Mouth" of the Singer

Once the vocal cords are adjusted, they communicate that information to the oro-pharynx. This is the area in the throat located at the back of the mouth, above the larynx but below the nasal cavity. This space shapes itself instantly to refine the sound waves into the recognizable vowel.

In vocal pedagogy, the oro-pharynx is often called the "true mouth" of the singer. When a vowel is well-defined here, the singer often feels like the sound is positioned slightly above the physical mouth, even on low notes.

Why Teachers Say "Get Out of Your Mouth"

You may have heard a vocal coach tell you to "get out of the mouth" or "don't drop the tone." They aren't being metaphorical; they are encouraging you to focus on the resonance in the oro-pharynx rather than the mechanical movement of the jaw, teeth, and tongue. While the physical mouth is important for articulation, the quality and shape of the vowel live in the throat's resonator.

Conclusion: Thinking Beyond the Lips

By understanding that vowels are a coordination of mental concept, vocal cord adjustment, and pharyngeal shaping, you can stop "working" so hard with your jaw. Trust your "true mouth" to do the shaping, and your vowels will become clearer, freer, and more resonant.