04.23.08
Posted in Uncategorized, Vocal Health, Performer Resources at 6:05 am by Administrator
After my last post about the unfortunate development of Jordin Sparks’ vocal cord hemorrhage, I did some more poking around the internet and discovered that there are very few helpful sources on vocal disorders in general. So, in efforts to change that fact, I am posting a glossary of Vocal Disorders, Injuries, and Illnesses.
Cancer - Cancer on the vocal mechanism, or larynx, is called laryngeal cancer. It is an invasive growth that tends to spread throughout the neck and lungs. Laryngeal cancer is usually caused by smoking, and is rare among non-smokers. Vocal cancer is treated with surgery to remove the cancerous cells, and radiation or chemotherapy.
Cyst - Cysts are small mucus or puss-filled pockets that can develop anywhere on the body. On the vocal cords they seem to develop from a mucus gland becoming blocked, an abnormal development of the vocal cords from birth, or from excessive or improper use of the voice. Vocal cysts are treated with voice therapy, sometimes extensive vocal rest (we’re talking months to years - it’s rare, but it does happen), and surgery.
Hemorrhage - Hemorrhaging of any kind is bleeding. Vocal cord hemorrhage is exactly what it sounds like: bleeding vocal cords. It is usually caused by excessive, prolonged, or improper use of the voice, which causes open wounds on the vocal cords. Vocal hemorrhage is treated with a brief period of vocal rest (days to weeks), and voice therapy for reoccurring cases.
Laryngitis - Laryngitis is a general term for inflammation of the vocal cords, resulting in hoarseness. I do not recommend self-diagnosing laryngitis, as prolonged hoarseness may have other, more serious causes than a little inflammation. Laryngitis is usually the result of a bacterial or viral infection in the body and is treated with vocal rest, hydration, and antibiotics if necessary.
Node/Nodules - A vocal Node/Nodule is, essentially, a callous, usually caused by extensive or improper use of the vocal cords. They are harder than polyps and usually form in a certain area of the vocal cords. Then can develop either slowly with a pre-node phase, or they can come on acutely with little warning (depending on the level of stress the voice is put through.) Vocal nodes/nodules are treated with vocal rest with subsequent therapy, and surgery in extreme cases.
Papilloma - Papilloma is the growth of warts on the larynx. It is caused by a virus and passed through intimate contact, including from mother to child during birth. The warts do not show up in everyone who carries the virus, and not everyone who comes in contact with the virus contracts it, either. Voice-use has nothing to do with the growth of the warts on the vocal cords. Just like other warts, Papilloma warts are nearly impossible to get rid of as the virus can never be rid from the body. Treatment is limited to repeated surgeries to remove repeated growths.
Polyp - A vocal polyp is, essentially, a callous caused by extensive or improper use of the vocal cords. They are softer than vocal nodes (or nodules), and may develop anywhere on the vocal cords. Vocal polyps are treated with vocal rest with subsequent therapy, and surgery in extreme cases.
Reflux - Acid reflux, or the flow of stomach acid up the esophagus, also can affect the vocal cords when this acid makes its way into the larynx. The vocal mechanism is much more sensitive than the esophagus and is much more effected by the acid, resulting in irritation and swelling. Over time, repeated fragility caused by acid exposure can make the vocal cords vulnerable to other complications, such as laryngitis and hemorrhaging. Treatment for reflux include dietary changes, antacids to manage stomach acid.
Scarring - Vocal cord scarring is usually caused by surgery on the vocal cords, but may result from diseases, or trauma to the neck or throat. The delicate surface tissue of the vocal cords lays loosely over the deeper tissues below, allowing for free vibrations when we vocalize. When this surface layer is partially made up of firm scar tissue, however, vibrations between the two vocal cords is severely limited and the voice is changed dramatically. Vocal scars should, overall, be prevented as much as possible. Once formed, however, vocal therapy and the gradual smoothing of the scar over time do yield some improvement. Surgery to smooth vocal scars is a rare and does not usually yield positive results.
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04.22.08
Posted in Uncategorized, Vocal Health at 9:16 pm by Administrator
While browsing Yahoo! News this morning, I learned that 2007 “American Idol” winner, Jordin Sparks, cancelled three shows this weekend, including an opening night spot on Alicia Keys’ concert tour. The article cited “acute vocal cord hemorrhage” as the cause for Ms. Sparks’ cancellation. It also asserted that after a brief period of vocal rest, Ms. Sparks will be singing her heart out on a breakneck schedule once again.
After reading the article I realized that it gave no indication of what “vocal cord hemorrhage” is, or of what causes it. So, let me break it down:
Hemorrhaging of any kind is bleeding. vocal cord hemorrhage is exactly what it sounds like: bleeding vocal cords (not pleasant any way you look at it.) Luckily for Ms. Sparks, there’s not much blood involved in your average vocal cord hemorrhage - it’s more about open wounds on the vocal cords than it is about major blood loss. The vocal cords begin to bleed when they are exposed to exessive phonotrauma, or the physical stresses caused by making sound with your voice. Extreme examples of phonotrauma are voicing too loudly (e.g. screaming), voicing too often for long periods of time (e.g. a rigorous performing schedule) or voicing when the vocal cords are fragile (e.g. while swollen). Really, the vocal cords are the same as the rest of the body - if you expose your fingertips to overuse, prolonged use, or use when they’re worn raw, you can expect them to bleed, too.
And so, with her vocal rest, Ms. Sparks will avoid any and all voicing (singing, speaking, whispering, etc) so that the open wounds on her cords can heal completely. Of course, this should lead us to question the performance, rehearsal, and recording schedule that caused this poor woman to literally sing until she bled. We must remember that our vocal cords are fragile and irreplaceable, and treat them with the appropriate respect. And primarily, I hope that Ms. Sparks’ managers and producers share in this appropriate respect so this might not happen to her again.
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04.20.08
Posted in Uncategorized, Vocal Health, Write-In Questions at 2:50 am by Administrator
“I recently went to a rock concert and woke up with a scratchy voice. Are there any tricks of the trade to help avoid this? - Chris R.
Chris,
To avoid “morning after” voice - or that scratchy, hoarse throwback from a long, loud night - there are steps you can take before, during, and after the vocal strain is going to happen.
Before: If you know you’re going to have a long, loud night, make sure that you hydrate that day. Also, take it easy on dehydrating agents such as caffeine, overly salty foods, and alcohol.
During: Of course, there’s a good chance you may be drinking alcohol throughout a long evening, so make sure you’re keeping up on your water as well. Also, during the event be aware of how loudly you’re speaking, singing, or cheering. Loud venues bring out The Lombard Effect, or an unconscious increase of vocal volume to compete with surrounding noise (this is also why people listening to music with headphones on, tend to yell when they talk.) The best thing to do is to enjoy the evening with no yelling or screaming. But we all know that a really great concert can make us scream ourselves silly, despite our best vocal intentions. So, if you must be loud, keep your breath supported and don’t max out your voice - keep it at 80% volume or less.
After: If you still find your voice scratchy the next morning, drink plenty of water, opt for herbal tea instead of coffee (caffeine dehydrates, remember), and take a hot shower and breathe deeply in the steam. Also, while you’re in the steam, do about 10 minutes of gentle humming through your range to warm up your voice. You should be sounding better after this, but if you’re still hoarse and breathy it means your vocal cords are probably swollen and you should really avoid singing, speaking or whispering for a few hours. In the meantime, keep that water and hot, herbal tea within reach - hydration and vocal rest (and a nap if you can get it) are your best bet for feel better soon.
Best of luck at the next concert, Chris!
~ Rebeqa
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11.09.07
Posted in Uncategorized, Vocal Health at 11:18 pm by Administrator
The basic principles of yoga are proper relaxation, proper exercise, proper breathing, proper diet, and positive thinking with meditation. This five-element equation is pretty much what the doctor ordered for any musician. Our profession demands long hours in high-stress situations, while balancing technique with emotional vulnerability. Yoga is an attainable discipline that simultaneously addresses the physical, mental, and emotional disciplines demanded of musicians.
As a vocal instructor I often assign yoga to students struggling with physical tension, or overwhelming performance anxiety (an assignment I learned from my first voice teacher). Here is how each of the five principles of yoga can benefit you as a musician:
Proper Relaxation: Releasing tension caused by daily life (e.g. hours in front of a computer, loading heavy sound equipment. etc.) is critical for musicians. Not only are tense muscles at a highter risk of injury, but muscles that are tense are not really in your control. Onstage we need to know that our bodies are on our side. Many singers, whether they want to or not, carry shoulder and neck tension that puts extra strain on their fragile vocal mechanism. Releasing that tension will take the local stress off the voice and will certainly improve the singer’s vocal health.
Proper Excersize: In addition to increasing energy and strengthening the immune system, excersize releases nervous energy and will help decrease any performance anxiety or pre-show jitters.
Proper Breathing: deeper, slower breathing increases oxygen to the brain and body. More oxygen means increased alertness and energy. Also, breathing is the number-one important technique for singers. Yoga breathing promotes breath-awareness, as well as depth and control of both the inhale and the exhale: all necessary techniques for singers.
Proper Diet: Eating healthily is key in maintaining your health. Also, certain foods can make singing more difficult (see my blog, “Maintaining Vocal Health” for more on voice-friendly eating practices.) Try not to eat too much before a rehearsal or performance, you don’t want to be mentally and physically sluggish when you should be focused on the music.
Positive Thinking: The mental discipline of positive thinking is key in practice productivity and mastering performance anxiety. Controlling overly-critial feedback and mentally visualizing yourself performing well are age-old practices for performers. So, next time you’re nervous before a performance and you’re thinking “what if I mess up,” just stop, focus, and try asking the question “what if I do everything right?”
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11.01.07
Posted in Uncategorized, Vocal Health, Performer Resources at 7:56 pm by Administrator
Demanding performance schedules, smoky venues, and working two jobs can wreak havoc on a singer’s instrument. Unlike other instruments, the voice is directly affected by each and every thing we eat, drink, and generally do throughout our lives. Keeping this in mind, here are some important guidelines for keeping your voice healthy when life is kicking your ass:Sleep! I cannot stress enough how important this is. The fact is: without sleep your voice will stop working - your vocal folds will swell and you will lose the ability to make sound. There is nothing you can do about this. A regular sleep schedule is best, but if you can’t manage that at least get 6-8 hours of consecutive sleep a day.
Stay hydrated. Caffeine, alcohol, salt, and sugar all dehydrate you. This means that coffee, sodas, and beer really don’t do squat to keep you hydrated - in fact they do the opposite. I do, of course drink coffee and wine - but I keep it within moderation and I increase my water intake to compensate for their dehydrating effects. Carry a 12 oz. water bottle and drink through it 5-6 times a day. If you don’t like water put some lemon or orange in it, or mix 1 part fruit juice with 3 parts water, or try some of the flavored waters that have no added sugars. And if this just seems like a lot of water to drink, remember: you are a singer and one of the hazards of choosing this profession is that you need to be more hydrated than everyone else.
Don’t socialize in loud places. Hanging out with friends and bandmates in loud bars, clubs, parties, and restaurants leads to what is known as the Lombard Effect. The Lombard Effect is the tendency to increase vocal volume and force in response to background noise. This tendency causes us to strain our voices in the effort to be heard. Avoid this unnecessary stress on your voice - choose a quieter place to meet.
Keep your speaking to a minimum. For singers who have a serious performing schedule (such as those on tour) speaking needs to be kept in check. All-night phone conversations with your significant other back home aren’t the best idea. Not that you have to adopt a “strong, silent type” persona, but try to shut off the speaking vocals after 10:00pm and don’t volunteer to lead the band pep talks.
You are what you eat. What we eat very much affects our vocal production. First of all, eating healthily supports your immune system (an absolute must for a singer.) Keep up the fruits and vegetables, and think about taking an immune system support supplement. Secondly, dairy products, and greasy or sugary foods increase phlem. Avoid milk, cheese, ice cream, and other dairy products the entire day of a show. If you do find yourself plagued with phlem, drink some lemon water (not sugary lemonade!) or eat a tart green apple. The light acidity of these fruits helps to break down the phlem so it can move along more quickly. Finally, don’t eat a large meal within 4 hours of a performance. Your lungs need room to expand when you inhale and you may find yourself quite short of breath if all the room in your body is taken up by chimichangas and beans with rice.
Look out for yourself. Of course everyone wants the fun lead-singer to come to their party and drink with them. Socializing is, of course, one of the perks and necessities of being a musician. Everyone has limits, however, and only you can decide where yours are. Learn to politely decline invitations when you need to sleep or when you feel that a night of talking will strain your instrument. Remember that once your voice is strained only rest can fix it, so don’t let it get to that point.
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10.30.07
Posted in Uncategorized, Vocal Health at 9:51 pm by Administrator
I have many voice students who smoke, and several who have quit smoking since I started working with them. While it is possible to sing while you smoke, I can tell you that those students who quit experience a drastic increase in vocal range. And although the first month or so is tough with the “smokers cough” acting up - eventually the “gunk” clears out of the lungs and lung capacity is increased and breath intake becomes quieter and easier.Here is an excellent blog posting I came across on www.answerbag.com that sums up the effects of smoking on the singing voice:
“One of the greatest singers of all time, and the most recorded musician of all time, Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau, was a smoker. Not that I would suggest three packs a day based on this, but it can be done.
“The vocal folds are folds are sheathed when not in use, so as long as you don’t speak or sing while exhaling smoke, you won’t do much direct damage to them.
“The biggest effect of smoking on the singing voice is a drastic loss of lung capacity. I once knew a smoker-singer who experimented with this. She quit smoking and monitored her lung capacity by timing long notes. Within two weeks, she had literally doubled her time. After six weeks, she caved in and started smoking again, and her lung time almost immediately dropped back to what it had been before.
“The brief explanation of this is that nicotine is a sedative. It deadens the nerves which control the support musculature, and does not allow the proper use of the lungs. The effects of tar in terms of congesting the lungs are also significant, but this is a complex problem.
“The primary issue of tar in the lungs is that the nicotine deadens the cillia in the bronchioles and bronchial passages. These tiny, finger-shaped bits of tissue serve two purposes: they increase the surface area of the bronchioles, allowing more oxygen to pass through to the capillaries behind them. Under normal circumstances, they also sway gently back and forth to move the mucous and phlegm around, preventing things from getting clogged up in there. Nicotine deadens the cillia, allowing tar and phlegm to coat them. This congestion reduces lung capacity. It also reduces the body’s ability to guage and react to irritation from smoke.
“In the morning, after not having had a dose of nicotine for eight hours, the cillia begin to awaken and sway again, moving all the stuff around. This is what causes “smoker’s cough,” the only effective cure for which, is of all things, a cigarette to deaden the cillia again. The cough, of course, irritates the vocal mechanism, and that’s a problem, too.”
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