Vocal hygiene awareness among singers

Open Access
- Author:
- Hall, Leah Michelle
- Area of Honors:
- Communication Sciences and Disorders
- Degree:
- Bachelor of Science
- Document Type:
- Thesis
- Thesis Supervisors:
- Robert Anthony Prosek, Thesis Supervisor
Dr. Carol Anne Miller, Thesis Honors Advisor - Keywords:
- vocal hygiene
voice
singers
vocal folds
vocal functioning
quality
performance - Abstract:
- The purpose of this study was to identify vocal hygiene practices among singers. Vocal hygiene techniques have been found to be useful in improving the voice quality of individuals who have a voice disorder. These techniques are particularly effective when combined with a direct treatment approach to the particular voice problem. For example, the amount of vocal use and style of phonation (shouting, whispering, normal conversation, etc.), proper hydration, diet, and eliminating vocal behaviors thought to be phonotraumatic are all strategies that encompass vocal hygiene. These lifestyle and behavioral changes to support a healthy voice are all techniques that are considered hygienic for preserving normal vocal function. Singers, both professional and amateur, place their vocal folds under more severe air pressures and tension than normal. The demands of vocal performances have been known to result in vocal damage and a change in voice quality. This study was conducted to determine if singers use vocal hygiene techniques to preserve their voice quality. Both quantitative and qualitative information was collected in this study through a questionnaire consisting of 56 questions. The questionnaire was sent to singers at The Pennsylvania State University. Twenty-three respondents successfully completed the survey. The results of the survey revealed a high level of vocal hygiene awareness with some discrepancies. Most participants engaged in protective voice activities by preserving the voice before performances, limiting damaging practices such as yelling, and maintaining overall health. Alcohol and caffeine consumption, which dries the vocal membranes, was also limited. Water intake was minimal compared to the recommended daily intake. Especially for singers, this was one major aspect that could improve vocal functioning. Another aspect of improvement was the use of the voice when feeling ill. Many singers continued to sing even when fatigued, tired, or ill, which could cause damage to the vocal folds. Use of hearing protection was also limited. These are some of the areas in which singers demonstrated a lack of vocal hygiene practices. When asked to provide an open-ended response with a definition of vocal hygiene, many included insightful definitions. Some listed tactics listed within the survey such as proper hydration, vocal rest, proper nutrition, not yelling/singing improperly, and maintaining good habits. Education on vocal hygiene may benefit singers to improve their vocal functioning, quality, and performance. Vocal hygiene may also serve as an initiative for preventing vocal abuse and injury. Once damaged, vocal folds may not produce sound sufficiently, ultimately distorting voice quality. Preventative strategies are essential for the delicate and unique nature of the vocal folds. Further research is necessary to determine the most effective strategies specific to singers and easy implementation of these strategies within their daily lives.