With our voices sounding different to us (I believe because of resonance through the bones and skull?), how does a singer know when they are on key compared to an external source?
In: 11
Because the fundamental pitch does not change, just the timbre, or quality of the sound.
The vocal tract is modeled as a harmonic oscillator (the vocal chords) that passes through a series of dynamic filters that amplify and dampen harmonic content above the fundamental pitch. These filters are a combination of natural development of the throat, tongue, palate and sinuses, and trained/learned elements. The raw harmonic content is supplied by the vocal chords, which are what you were born with, and the diaphragm pushing air through them. The diaphram can be trained to develop strength and control, as can the pitch control of the vocal chords. Damage to the vocal chords (overuse, disease or environmental damage like smoking) will also change the raw harmonic content – almost always for the worse.
For a singer, being able to hear their own voice in context with the music or other singers is essential to good pitch and harmonizing. Some can just hear their own voice. Others need more assistance – stage monitors, in-ear monitors. I use an earplug in one ear, which cuts out exterior sounds, and I can hear my own voice clearly. It does help.
Latest Answers