The Singer and Tongue Tension: The Effects of Tongue Tension on Singing and Recommendations for Remediation

Authors

Megan A. Calgaro, Belmont UniversityFollow

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