The “chest voice”, the “head voice” and the “falsetto” are simply words to describe the different ways that the vocal cords vibrate and function when we sing from lower to higher notes. When the change between chest voice and higher registers is sudden and abrupt, it is usually noticeable and undesirable. So good singers mix some of the heavy chest voice with some of the lead voice as they move between the two.
This “mix” or “middle voice” generally involves 5 or 6 semitones. Louder than that and the voice in the head begins to take control more and more, letting the voice in the chest work less and less. This creates a much smoother transition.
Falsetto is a beautiful and unique sound because the vocal cords create the sound vibrations in a completely different way than the chest or head registers. (To understand more about vocal registers, see my article titled “What the heck are ‘vocal registers’ and how do they affect my singing?”)
The main trick is to train the larynx to stay low in the throat while singing louder, and a great way to practice this is to use the “gug” sound. Sing that in a comfortable low note and repeat it while singing a major arpeggio up and down. (C – E – G – C – (repeat C 4 times) G -E – C)
The “gug” sound will cause your larynx (Adam’s apple) to bounce down the back of your throat, and it should keep bouncing down as you play the higher notes. As you continue to do this exercise, repeating it over and over Again, every time you go up half a step, your larynx will learn to stay low as you sing higher. A couple of notes and try again. If it keeps “breaking”, leave it for a while. Don’t keep forcing the high notes. It should be light and thin.
Singing this exercise often, using different vowels, will bring the “mix” to your voice. Remember: do not force the larynx down. “Gug” down. Then try “mom” with the same exercise. Repetition is the key. Don’t rush things.
Find a voice teacher who understands “mixing” or “middle voice.” (Not all do), or ask for my SINGER’S BIBLE. It really helps to listen to the exercises on the recordings.
