Belmont University Research Symposium (BURS)
Publication Date
Fall 2023
College
Music and Performing Arts, College of
Department
Music, School of
BURS Faculty Advisor
Dr. Angela Yoon
Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Abstract
When singing, the tongue plays an important role in healthy phonation, brilliant resonance, and clear articulation. The complex anatomy of the tongue, and its interwoven connection to nearby structures, provides insight as to why it may impact the singer. For instance, improper tongue position can alter the singer’s resonance and create excessive muscle tension in the surrounding anatomy, thereby distorting sound or, in extreme cases, create the perception of pitch inaccuracy. Consequently, aspects of singing that may seem unrelated can be traced back to tension in the tongue. It is not uncommon for singers to spend years working to attenuate tension within the tongue. Singing experts from Manuel García to Scott McCoy have introduced various methods to alleviate tongue tension. Despite pedagogical advancements in the understanding of the singing mechanism, tongue tension remains a difficult hurdle for the developing singer to overcome. Issues of tongue tension are made more complicated by individual differences in tongue shape and size, so the singer and their teacher must approach the challenge armed with knowledge and patience. This research examines factors identified by voice experts that may contribute to tongue tension and provides examples of exercises designed to target those technical issues.
Recommended Citation
Calgaro, Megan A., "The Singer and Tongue Tension: The Effects of Tongue Tension on Singing and Recommendations for Remediation" (2023). Belmont University Research Symposium (BURS). 419.
https://repository.belmont.edu/burs/419
