Supraglottic contributions to pitch raising. Videoendoscopic study with spectroanalysis

Area of Science:

• Vocal production and biomechanics
• Laryngology and speech science
• Singing technique and physiology

Background:

• Understanding the laryngeal and pharyngeal mechanisms of pitch raising is crucial for vocal pedagogy and clinical voice assessment.
• Previous research has posed questions regarding laryngeal elevation, pharyngeal wall movement, and soft palate function during pitch modulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the biomechanical changes in the larynx, pharyngeal walls, and soft palate during pitch raising in professional singers.
• To elucidate the role of these structures in achieving higher vocal frequencies across various voice qualities.

Main Methods:

• Employed a novel simultaneous velolaryngeal endoscopy technique for real-time visualization.
• Recorded synchronous voice data and performed spectroanalysis on discrete phonation segments.
• Nine professional singers explored their vocal range limits across six distinct voice qualities (speech, falsetto, cry/sob, twang, belting, opera).

Main Results:

• Observed consistent laryngeal elevation with increasing fundamental frequency across all participants and voice qualities.
• Documented significant medial contraction of the lateral pharyngeal walls, forming an 'upside-down V shape' and narrowing the pharyngeal tube at highest frequencies.
• Noted elevation of the soft palate and considerable narrowing of the velopharyngeal port as fundamental frequency increased.

Conclusions:

• Laryngeal elevation is a key component of pitch raising in singing.
• Pharyngeal wall constriction and soft palate elevation contribute to vocal tract modification for higher pitch production.
• These findings provide objective insights into the complex laryngeal and supralaryngeal adjustments during singing.