The Structure of Singing – Richard Miller

The Structure of Singing – Richard Miller 4/18/2013 Introduction 4 mechanistic functions that unite in breathing and phonating 1. Energizing system (mechanism of power): inhalatory-exhalatory system housed in the head and torso 2. Vibratory system: Laryngeal mechanism 3. Resonator system: series of cavaties in changing relationships with laryngeal tone 4. Articulatory system: activated by the lips, teeth, cheecks and tongue *systems are interdependent Appendix 1: Laryngeal Structure and Function “Vocal folds are long, smoothly rounded bands of muscle tissue which may be lengthened and shortened, tensed and relaxed, and abducted and adducted.” Cartilaginous Structure of the Larynx  Larynx is situated at the top of the trachea  Located somewhat central in respiratory tract (nose and lips to the bronchioles in the lungs)  Larynx consists of 9 cartilages: three single (unimpaired) and paired cartilages of lesser dimension. Cartilages connected by ligaments and membranes  Cartilages subject to movement by a number of muscles The Single (unpaired) Laryngeal Cartilages Thyroid Cartilage: shield-shaped, largest of laryngeal cartilages, “Adam’s apple” is formed by the laminae of the thyroid cartilage  Upper and Lower horn located posteriorly on each side  Upper horn is attached to the hyoid bone  The lower horn extends downward posteriorly over the side of the cricoid cartilage Cricoid Cartilage Intrinsic Muscles of Larynx pg. 244 FINISH THIS Paired lateral cricoarytenoids:  Attached to the lateral and superior portions of the cricoid cartilage AND the tips of the vocal processes of the arytenoid cartilages Interarytenoid Muscle  Attached to the posterior surface of both arytenoid cartilages Cricothyroid Muscle

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Paired and attached to the anterior portion of the cricoid cartilage and the inferior horn and inner and outer edges of the lower border of the thyroid cartilage

Chapter 1: The Coordinated Vocal Onset and Release