In a message dated 4/4/2002 7:57:21 AM Central Standard Time, dgrogan@e... writes:
> How do the extrinsic muscles move the folds in a way that helps them resist > air pressure? I understand how the extrinsic musculature moves the entire > larynx, but how does it relate to the folds themselves? Thanks! > > David Grogan > Marshall, Texas >
Extrinsic musculature (suprahyoid muscles) are used in the act of swallowing to move the larynx superiorly and anteriorly which in turn creates a very tight closure of the folds (they close more tightly in this act than in any other). The excessively lifted larynx in singing approaches this position contributing to excessive tension and higher subglottal pressure.
An excessively lowered larynx can do the same. Brodnitz (p. 83) speaks of this in Keep your Voice Healthy. In his discussion of covered singing, with an excessively lowered larynx, he states that measurements of airflow in this production are twice what they are in a more open manner of singing. The reason is because of greater tension of the outer laryngeal muscles and intrinsic ones also. The excessive recruitment of high larynx muscles will do the same.
Randy Buescher
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