Laryngeal Tilt

As previously mentioned, the larynx moves up and down depending on pitch - upwards for higher pitch, and downwards for lower pitch.

Low Larynx - produces a longer vocal tract resulting in lower harmonics and a change in voice quality (a feature of some opera and classical singers).

High Larynx - produces a shorter vocal tract resulting in higher harmonics and a change in vocal quality (a feature in some pop and contemporary music theatre).

Larynx Height/Position - refers to the initial starting position before phonation - it is important to note that regardless of initial setup the larynx should not remain in a fixed position or feel ‘stuck’ - healthy singing requires a good range of movement, both up and down.

The larynx is also able to TILT. Let’s look at the THYROID CARTILAGE to begin with…

When this TILTS forward it affects the vocal folds by lengthening them to make them thinner - this enables us to move higher in our range. Try Whimpering like a puppy to access this TILT.

When the larynx is not in a tilted position we call it NEUTRAL. We use a NEUTRAL larynx for everyday speech and sometimes in popular songs. Try saying ‘uh-oh’ and then moving into a whimpering sound to feel the subtle movement of the Thyroid.

There is a third kind of TILT that we use for something called BELT and that is the TILT of the CRICOID CARTILAGE. This drops/tilts downwards which pushes the arytenoid cartilage forward, making the vocal mass thicker/shorter. Try gasping in gasping in surprise to feel the movement of the CRICOID CARTILAGE.