Increased Respiratory Drive in Sustained Ventricular Vocal Fold Phonation

Area of Science:

• Vocal production biomechanics
• Acoustic phonetics

Background:

• Ventricular vocal fold (VVF) phonation is an uncommon vocal production method.
• While often uncomfortable, VVF phonation is used by some singers without discomfort.
• Previous studies lacked quantitative aerodynamic data on VVF phonation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantitatively compare aerodynamic differences between modal true vocal fold (TVF) phonation and two VVF phonation styles (Kargyraa and mixed vocal distortion).
• To analyze airflow, air pressure, and sound intensity during sustained vowels, repeated syllables, and style transitions in a trained singer.

Main Methods:

• A trained adult male singer produced TVF and two VVF phonation styles (Kargyraa, mixed distortion) at C3.
• Tasks included sustained vowels ([a], [i], [u]), repeated syllables ([pa], [pi], [pu]), and style transitions.
• Measurements included sound pressure levels, mean airflow, and mean peak air pressure.

Main Results:

• Both VVF styles exhibited higher transglottal airflow compared to TVF phonation (Kargyraa: 2-fold, mixed distortion: 4-fold).
• Mean peak air pressure was 2-4 fold greater during repeated syllables for both VVF styles.
• Intensity was consistently higher (2-6 dB SPL) in VVF productions compared to TVF phonation.

Conclusions:

• VVF phonation consistently requires greater airflow, air pressure, and results in higher intensity than TVF phonation.
• Findings support the hypothesis that increased airflow and pressure sustain VVF phonation.
• Future research should investigate diverse VVF-proficient singers and explore didactic applications for airflow training.