Choral singing requires a solid sound. That solid sound can happen only if it has a definite focus point where it can live. I define this as having a “resonance center”, a place in which to focus the singing voice.
Visualization of the Resonance Center
I visualize the vocal resonance center as a small sphere in the middle of the mouth. Its nominal position is midway between the teeth and the throat, and midway between the tongue and the palate. It’s an imaginary entity, so it’s okay if it extends beyond the actual space there. The sphere just has to be settled into place.
Using Your Resonance Center
When you sing, focus your voice into your resonance center. For high dynamic levels, focus more power there; for soft dynamic levels, focus less power there (but don’t let up on your breath support!). Focusing your voice into a clearly defined location enables consistent, solid vocal projection. The limits of that space also help to prevent overprojection which results in a strained, strident sound.
Modification of the Resonance Center
You can change the position or shape of your resonance center. Doing so will change how your voice sounds; for instance, moving it upward into your palate will produce a “head voice” sound. Moving it downward will give a “chest voice”. Making it taller results in a – you guessed it – “tall” sound. Knowing how to do this will make you a more valuable choral singer, because you’ll be able to adapt to match your acoustic surroundings no matter what they are.
