Human Vocal Production: How we make Sound

How do we produce sound?

The Larynx The Larynx, also known as the voicebox, is the sound generator in voice production. It connects the throat (pharynx) with the windpipe (trachea). At the top of the larynx is the epiglottis. This small flap prevents food and water from entering the voice box. When you swallow, the larynx rises to meet the epiglottis to seal off the trachea.

Vocal Cords Inside the larynx are two strips of tissue called the vocal cords. Muscles pull these two strips tight to allow you to speak or sing. Air passing through the vocal cords creates a vibration.

When the vocal cords are pulled tighter, they vibrate faster and create a higher pitch. When the vocal cords are relaxed, they vibrate slower and create a lower pitch. The sounds are shaped into words, songs, and other noises by the mouth, nose, and throat.

Fun Fact: Remember that time? As children grow older, their vocal cords lengthen, which produces lower pitches. In girls, this change might not even be noticed. For boys, their range can drop an octave. Sometimes this growth presses on the middle of the larynx, thus creating a larger Adam’s apple.

Sound and the Ear Sound is any change or fluctuation in air pressure that travels in waves. The ear detects these changes to “hear” the sound. video

Now You Know… The larynx is another name for the voicebox. The vocal cords inside help produce sound and pitch.

Now You Go… Now that you know how you produce sound, try paying attention to when you hear and use sound. LISTEN for sounds you have never noticed before FEEL your voicebox when you speak LEARN a new instrument or song